The 2023 Louisiana Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Northeast Region Leadership Conference was hosted by Louisiana Tech University’s College of Business last week. More than 750 middle and high school students from across the northern part of the state traveled to Ruston for competitive events and workshops.

“We have been honored to host this conference since 2019 and enjoy welcoming the students and their advisors to our beautiful campus,” said Dr. Chris Martin, dean of the College of Business. “The skills that these students are honing through their involvement in FBLA will provide a solid foundation for success in a College of Business like ours.”

Members attended 20 competitions and workshops, ranging from public speaking and critical thinking to starting a business and creating presentations that flow. Competitions were held throughout Tech’s academic buildings, giving visitors the opportunity to experience life on campus.

In addition to hosting the event, the College of Business held a scholarship drawing for students winning first place in a category. The following participants were randomly selected:

• Brenden Harris, Homer High School
• Nicole De Ramos, Summerfield High School
• Houston Cox, Jonesboro-Hodge High School
• Libby Blake, Ruston High School
• Olivia Blackwelder, Glenbrook High School

Middle and high schools from Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Caldwell, East Carroll, West Carroll, Claiborne, Catahoula, Concordia, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, Union, and Webster Parishes attended the regional conference. Winners will now go on to compete at the state level.