Ten Milford High students competed in the national Family, Career and Community Leaders of America Leadership Conference and Competition, with eight placing in the top 10 in the nation.
The event was held in San Diego, California, June 29-July 3.
More than 7,000 attendees gathered to expand leadership skills, sharpen talents, explore career pathways and listen to inspiring speakers.
Milford members who qualified to compete and attended were Sophia Birch, Mackenzie Watenpaugh, Jaidyn Bell, Aubrey Burton, Kayla Wilken, Nevaeh Spurling, Natalie Nutzman, Stephen Vance, Zephyr Mowinkel, and Sadie Frazier, along with their adviser, Mallory Gregory.
This year’s conference theme encouraged participants to “Make It Count” through competing in events, running for office, partaking in Leadership Academy, and continuing to make a positive impact within their families, communities and potential careers.
In addition to the many learning and networking experiences offered at the conference, more than 32 family and consumer science-related competitive events, known as STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) Events took place.
These events aim to support student development of knowledge and skills by enhancing the classroom experience and career pathway initiatives by equipping students with employable skills and industry insights needed to thrive in the 21st century.
FCCLA members choose what STAR Event they would like to compete in at the beginning of the school year.
Events range from early childhood education, entrepreneurship and sports nutrition to fashion design, job interview and culinary arts.
Members are recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, community impact and career preparation.
Members who qualified for nationals had to score in the top two in their category at districts and then state.
The Milford FCCLA national competitors came home with outstanding results. Eight of the 10 Milford members placed in the top 10 in the nation in their respective events.
Three of those eight placed in the top three in the nation.
Results
Sadie Frazier competed in Nutrition and Wellness Level 1, placing second in the nation.
Stephen Vance competed in Teach and Train Level 1, placing third in the nation.
Natalie Nutzman competed in Interpersonal Communications Level 1, also placing third in the nation.
Sophia Birch competed in Career Investigation Level 3, placing fourth in the nation.
Aubrey Burton, Kayla Wilken and Nevaeh Spurling competed in National Programs in Action Level 1, placing sixth in the nation.
Zephyr Mowinkel competed in Entrepreneurship Level 1, placing 10th in the nation.
Jaidyn Bell and Mackenzie Watenpaugh competed in Professional Presentation Level 2, placing 23rd in the nation.
An experience to remember
For some of these Milford FCCLA members, it was their first time ever flying on an airplane or seeing an ocean.
For many it was the first time ever seeing a U.S. naval base. This competition not only allowed these members to represent Milford and the state of Nebraska, but opened their eyes to many cultures, lifestyles and an appreciation for all of the servicemen and women stationed across the country.
While on a ferry in San Diego, Milford members met an active serviceman who is stationed in San Diego but is from Nebraska.
FCCLA is a dynamic and effective national student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work and societal issues through family and consumer sciences education.
The organization’s programs are planned and run by members, and it’s the only career and technical in-school student organization with a central focus on careers that support families.
