The University of Northern Iowa’s collegiate chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) made its mark at the 2023 FBLA National Leadership Conference taking top honors and  winning the prestigious Outstanding Chapter of the Year award.

FBLA is the nation's largest Career and Technical Student Organization focused solely on business. This year their national conference was held in Atlanta, Georgia, from June 22-25, and attracted more than 800 college students and educators from across the country. The conference brings together students to compete for cash prizes in dozens of competitive events over four days each year. Students also had the opportunity to engage in learning workshops, network with alumni and meet with potential employers.

UNI students showcased their exceptional skills and professionalism, earning top placements and recognition among talented students nationwide. This remarkable achievement reflects the students unwavering dedication and hard work throughout the 2022-2023 school year. The chapter's accomplishments include attending a state conference and two national conferences, organizing a college-wide holiday service event, participating in FBLA Week programs sponsored by National FBLA, hosting professional development speakers, business tours, and much more!

"I was ecstatic to find out we won,” said Aiden Farnsworth, incoming Chapter President. “This award not only gives us a solid foundation to continue excellence in our chapter but also positions us for continued growth and new opportunities this upcoming school year! I look forward to reconnecting with current and future FBLA members this fall on campus!"

The Outstanding Chapter program is a nationwide initiative that encourages chapters to actively engage their members through a series of challenges. These challenges encompass various aspects, such as recruitment, national programs, professional development, and chapter management. Participating chapters that fulfill the tasks outlined in these areas become eligible to submit projects for competition. The competition is open to all chapters in good standing throughout the country, and the submitted projects are thoroughly reviewed and judged.

"I am so proud of our group for achieving this title, and being able to accept the award in Atlanta had me smiling from ear to ear,” said Outgoing Chapter President, Madison Kraemer. “We've worked really hard this year to provide a welcoming community that supports not only professional advancement but personal development too. I think that's what makes FBLA unique. We are a business club, but we focus a lot more on the leadership aspect, which helps members seek their full potential and discover their passions. We had a lot of fun putting together all these activities this year, and it paid off in an enormous way!"

FBLA’s Outstanding Chapter of the Year award showcases their excellence, dedication, and contributions to the field of business and leadership. This achievement sets a solid foundation for continued success, growth, and new opportunities in the upcoming year, reinforcing the chapter's commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering community for its current and future members.

“We are so proud of our student members, who have been working diligently for months to prepare for the National Leadership Conference,” FBLA President and CEO Alexander T. Graham said. “They impressed industry leaders with their mastery of competitive event subjects, made powerful new connections with employers and alumni, and demonstrated their readiness to enter the workforce.”