State middle schoolers come to campus for competition
More than 450 middle school students from across Mississippi converged on Meridian Community College's campus to compete in the state's Future Business Leaders of America Competition (FBLA).
FBLA is a student business organization of young people aimed at developing the next generation of leaders in business, government, and communities. Through leadership and career development programs, FBLA seeks to bridge the gap between business and education.
Mandy Hurtt, MCC director of recruiting, expressed her delight in hosting the event. "As a college, we were honored to welcome these middle school students to our campus. It's inspiring to see such a large group of young individuals who are excited about their potential and talent firsthand,” she said.
According to Gwen Dodds, a veteran educator with more than three decades of experience who serves as the state specialist with FBLA, the state competition moves to different venues throughout Mississippi. This year, officials chose to bring the sixth through eighth-grade students to MCC on the advice of an advisor.
The enthusiasm for the day – and being on campus - was evident.
Competitor Luke Salceeo said he'd enjoyed being on the MCC campus and liked the environment. He was also impressed with the College’s mascot, Victor the Eagle, who entertained and posed for photo opportunities. “He’s pretty cool with his energy and overall vibe,” Salceeo said.
Other competitors, Landon Hughes and Brady Keith, also shared their excitement to be on the MCC campus. "It’s been a good experience,” said Hughes. “Everybody's been helpful. I lost my phone, and it was safely returned,” Keith added.
But it wasn't only the younger participants who enjoyed the FBLA conference. MCC volunteer Marlo Turner, the College’s payroll manager and diversity coordinator, volunteered to direct students from competition sites. "I remembered participating in an FBLA competition as a high school student. I wanted to be a service and help where I could,” she said. “This was fun," she added.