April 3, 2026
By Chloe Lin
Staff Writer
Months of hard work and preparation paid off for the Future Business Leaders of America Club, whose members competed in the State Leadership Conference at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City from March 9-11.
Despite tough competition from over 100 New Jersey schools and more than 10,000 students in attendance, nine of LHS’ 62 competitors placed in the top four in their events, securing spots at the National Leadership Conference in San Antonio from June 29-July 2. Nine additional students placed in the top 10 in their events.
FACT BOX BY ZAHARA CHOWDHURY
Spanish teacher Mrs. Silvelo, who co-advises the club with history teacher Mr. Spence, said she was proud of the club members’ professionalism.
“Their behavior was outstanding,” Silvelo said. “They practiced when they had to practice, and they were on time. They were definitely team players.”
Silvelo said the State Leadership Conference, which the club attends annually, provides students with meaningful learning experiences.
“There’s always a new idea, a new thought that you can find when talking to other people from different chapters and the leaders of FBLA.”
“It’s a great opportunity for the kids to network with other schools,” Silvelo said. “It’s also a great opportunity for the kids to do something outside of school, but [still] be able to connect with their peers.”
Sophomore Nicholas Brennen, a second-year member-at-large who placed first in Introduction to Public Speaking, said the club has strengthened his self-esteem.
“I’ve been doing performances and acting for a lot of my life, and I like to use my voice,” Brennen said. “FBLA showed me that I [shouldn’t] doubt myself as much as I do, and I have to be more confident.”
Brennen said meeting students from other schools was a highlight of the trip.
“I like going around talking to other students,” Brennen said. “There’s always a new idea, a new thought that you can find when talking to other people from different chapters and the leaders of FBLA.”
Senior Martine Rivas, a first-year member-at-large who earned second place in Business Law on a competitive test, said the event suited her because it aligned with her interests because she intends to become a forensic psychologist.
“Studying definitely helped a lot,” Rivas said. “Most of the stuff on the test I already knew from [taking] previous law classes.”
Rivas said she had to manage her time well when preparing for the test.
“I had to put my all into it, which was a little difficult because I had other things going on,” Rivas said. “It definitely taught me how to discipline myself.”
Especially as a senior, Rivas said she was happy to attend the conference with her peers.
“I enjoyed having one last fun trip with my friends, and being able to cheer them on and watch them succeed,” Rivas said. “I made a lot of new friends from all different schools. It was a really good experience.”
