Story & Photos courtesy Angie Ehlers, O’Neill FCCLA Chapter
Over 250 FCCLA members from eight area schools came together at O’Neill High School on Wednesday, October 15th, for the District 9 Leadership Conference. The day was packed with leadership sessions, service projects, and plenty of fun connections with other chapters.
O’Neill FCCLA had 75 members participating in the event. During the conference, O’Neill’s own Emily Larsen was installed as the District Vice President of Service. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of breakout sessions led by local professionals and organizations, including State Officers Mollie Corkle and Suhani Chaudhari of O’Neill, and Samantha Feher from West Point; State Peer Officers Celia Mott of O’Neill and Ian Crockett of Creighton. Several O’Neill FCCLA members also assisted Ms. Emily Morrow in sharing about Eagle Eye Broadcasting during the breakout sessions.
Thank you to all of our breakout session presenters who shared their time and knowledge with members, including Amy Timmerman, UNL Extension; Mandy Chavez, Beginnings; Karen Helmberger; Jewel Swanson; Lauren Osborne; Ken Spader and Ace, the therapy dog; and Tiffani Shoemaker.
Before the conference, chapters collected hygiene items to donate to local schools and community groups. Together, they gathered over 1,200 items that were divided among the eight chapters to give back to their communities.
After the conference wrapped up, members explored O’Neill by touring local businesses. The O’Neill chapter visited Country Lane Retirement Village and the Evergreen Assisted Living Residence, where they spent time doing activities with residents.
A big thank you also goes out to the local businesses that welcomed FCCLA members for tours and activities, including Handlebend, Twig Flower and Gift, Blush Boutique, Krotters Home Center, Wildflour Grocer, B’s Sweet Treats, Shamrock Nursery, Country Lane, and the Evergreen.
The District 9 Leadership Conference gave members a great chance to learn new skills, meet other FCCLA leaders, and make a difference—showing what it truly means to be a part of FCCLA!
