FCCLA STUDENTS DEVELOP LEADERSHIP SKILLS AT NATIONAL CONFERENCE

More than 6,600 nationwide members, advisers, alumni, and guests of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), gathered in Anaheim, CA July 9-14 for the 2011 National Leadership Conference. Students and advisers from John P. Stevens High School were among them.  FCCLA is a dynamic national student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education.  

This theme for the annual national meeting was “Imagination in Action.” Throughout the five-day convention, participants examined and discussed several critical issues, including family, school and community violence prevention, physical as well as financial fitness, future career exploration and countless community service projects.

A number of relevant youth issues, such as the changing roles of men and women in the home and workplace, leadership, and obesity prevention were also explored at the meeting through presentations, workshops, and youth sessions. 

Danny Brooks, a graduation senior at JP Stevens High School, competed his term as the FCCLA National First Vice President.   Ryan Szemple, NJ FCCLA Vice President of Parliamentary Law, served as a voting delegate and actively participated in the democratic process regarding bylaw amendments.

FCCLA: The Ultimate Leadership Experience is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by members.  Chapter officers, Rachel Cheng and David Shah, were recognized for their leadership ability and nationally identified as “Leaders to Watch” along with Chapter Adviser, Ms. Nicole Perez who recognized as an adult “Leader to Watch.”

Over 3,500 students competed in STAR Events (Students Taking Action with Recognition) which are competitive events that build proficiency and achievement in leadership and job-related skills.  JP Stevens FCCLA Chapter had 31 students competing in 13 STAR events earning 28 gold medals, 2 silver medals and 1 bronze medal.  The six members of the Junior Parliamentary receive recognition for having the highest parliamentary procedure test score in the nation.  It is no surprise that the majority of FCCLA members feel that FCCLA participation has a positive impact on their academic performance.  The specific accomplishments are listed below:

STAR Events Results – 2011