This past month, the Thomas College Collegiate Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) participated in an FBLA High School Conference on March 16-18 in South Portland.
FBLA is a National Student Organization known for competing in business conferences at both State and National conferences, and Thomas FBLA (including students Megan Blasius, Hadassah Leighton, Sam Tjalsma, and Bismarck Akoto) took a hand in judging the State of Maine High School FBLA Conference Competitions. Eleven high schools with over 240 students attended the conference to present their business projects with written tests, role-play activities, and exhibiting examples for their projects. Thomas College FBLA students administered and graded tests and took part in evaluating projects. One (York High School) of the eleven high schools was able to win first place in the State with schools and students who placed first, second, or third, are eligible to compete at the National’s in Dallas, Texas in late May. On the last day, the Thomas FBLA students conducted workshops to critique resumes, demonstrate techniques for developing “Elevator Talks”, and to help the high school students be better prepared for their career field.
“Future Business Leaders of America is all about getting ready for your career,” FBLA member Haddasah Leighton said. “I have learned what professionals are looking for interviews and how to network well.”
With Thomas being the only Collegiate Chapter of FBLA in Maine, the students have a great opportunity to learn how business works and how to succeed in business type environments. This comes from the case studies, conferences, and workshops they are either participating in or judging.
In 1982, Roberta Tibbetts started the FBLA along with other faculty members and has been the advisor of the group since. “Students in all levels of FBLA can take advantage of programs to foster business knowledge,” Tibbetts said. “We [Roberta Tibbetts and Darlene Ratte] try to be great mentors and leaders to the members when they need guidance and assistance.”
Two years ago, the FBLA team placed third at Nationals in Charloette, North Carolina which was a huge success for the program. Outside of competitions, students plan social activities to strengthen the community around them. Decorating for the holidays in December and performing volunteer work for community activities like helping the Winslow Food Kitchen relocation project are among the activities.
Thomas College, being the only Collegiate Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America, encourages other colleges across the State to become a part of the Collegiate Chapter in Maine. FBLA has proven to be a great opportunity to assist students at many educational levels to enhance their knowledge and understanding of business. Building confidence in delivering presentations, public speaking, and interacting with communities are areas Haddasah Leighton has emphasized as newly developed skills she has acquired since she has become a part of FBLA. To become empowered by the FBLA group and are interested in becoming a part of their chapter, please reach out. The group meets on Wednesdays in AL-202 (Board Room), and they are excited to welcome new members.
By Wallace Savoy ‘25