participation and placement in competitive events,” Rose chapter and North Carolina state president, Brena Gauland said.  

     Several workshops were held and many guest speakers attended, including Gauland. In addition to other responsibilities, Gauland led a workshop speaking on topics like enthusiasm, teamwork and making the most out of every opportunity. Gauland also took part in both the opening and closing ceremonies. 

     “I helped read and pass out awards at the closing and just made sure that everyone was doing what they needed to be doing,” Gauland said. 

     Senior and Rose FBLA Vice President (VP) of Competitive Events Anisha Sadhale, also attended the conference. Being the VP of Competitive Events, she helps members prepare for their events at both the regional and state level. 

         “I attended the regional conference to go to workshops and compete for the North Carolina Central Business            Education Association (NCBEA) Outstanding Student Award,” Sadhale said. 

Sadhale was awarded the NCBEA Outstanding Student at the regional conference. In terms of competing, Sadhale’s testing event qualifies as a North Carolina State Leadership Conference event in Greensboro. The North Carolina State Leadership Conference will be held in Greensboro from March 24-26. 

     “You have more opportunities [at the state conference],” Gauland said. “Not only are you getting the opportunity to network with people across your region; now you get to network with people across the state.” 

       Gauland has been preparing for the conference by meeting with her state officer team every Tuesday. 

    “I’ve been working with the state officers for the past couple of months, just working on exactly what we’re going to do,” Gauland said. “We’re hosting three workshops as a team.” 

     For many FBLA members, this is their first time at states due to COVID-19. Rose junior and FBLA member Averi Simpson looks forward to experiencing the conference in-person as it was virtual last year.

      “Last year all we did was make a presentation and submit a video; we didn’t really get a community experience or get to go to workshops to learn stuff,” Simpson said. “I’m really excited to be there in person because I think I’ll learn a lot more and it’s really fun to be there with your friends.” 

     Rose FBLA had 44 regional competitors that will continue on to the state conference. Overall, Rose had eight first place, seven second place, nine third place, three fourth place, and 16 top ten finalists. Additionally, the Rose chapter won the regional service project, with 983 cans being donated for the Food Bank of Eastern North Carolina.