Stanly Community College’s Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate (FBLA-C) chapter returned from its annual National Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia with numerous awards, including a Gold Seal Chapter designation for the 22nd year in a row.

In addition to motivational speakers and leadership workshops, delegates participated in the FBLA-C national competitive events. All five SCC student delegates who advanced after state competitions in April earned “Top Ten” recognition.

Elizabeth Lassing and Gage Barrier received second place honors in the Hospitality Management case study presentation.

Chloee Thomas placed seventh in the Management Analysis and Decision-Making event, based on both a written test and case study presentation.

Madison Thomas earned third place honors in the Sports Management event, based on a written test.

Toby Neal received fifth place in the Impromptu Speaking event and third place in the Future Business Executive event, based on a written test, preparation of a resume and cover letter, and an interview with judges from Atlanta-based businesses.

Neal also presented SCC’s “State of the Chapter” address that highlighted activities of the chapter throughout the year, which earned first place recognition.

The students were accompanied to the conference by Chapter Adviser Dan Hazlett, who serves on the FBLA national board of directors.

“SCC is very proud of how well these five students represented the College and North Carolina at the national level,” Hazlett said. “Delegates from universities, colleges and community colleges throughout the country advanced to the national level, and having our students place in so many events reflect their abilities and the quality education they’re receiving.”

The SCC FBLA Collegiate (formerly Phi Beta Lambda) chapter is beginning the 50th anniversary of its chartering.

“Co-adviser Katrina Sams and I continue to appreciate the campus and community support that the chapter receives,” Hazlett remarked. “The commitment to leadership opportunities and encouragement from local business and civic leaders has resulted in a rich history for the chapter and a tremendous amount of state and national recognition for our county and Stanly Community College. Experiences such as the state and national conferences give our students the confidence that builds leaders in their careers and communities.”