Southwest Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 23 at 7:15 a.m. in room B200. The meeting kicks off the FBLA year and aims to recruit new members and retain previous members. 

“I really hope that we have a lot of people that come that are interested in FBLA,” CEO of Southwest FBLA, junior Stefani Johnson said. “We want to get everyone excited when it comes to the events that we do throughout the year.” 

The FBLA meeting will allow members to learn about volunteering and competition opportunities ahead. The FBLA leadership team will also give an overview of major activities like earning ribbons and State FBLA in addition to providing breakfast for all members. 

“I hope to place in competitions since I know what to expect as a returning member,” senior Aubrey Bailey said. “I am excited that I get the opportunity to go to State.”

Southwest FBLA took nine members to Nationals last year, which is the second highest group taken to Nationals by Southwest.

“Last year, people got a hunger for Nationals and we had success, and success breeds success,” FBLA advisor Joshua Hinrichs said. “Businesses are all around us. Everybody is going to be part of business in some way, shape or form. It helps to understand how the business world works, and everyone can benefit from coming and checking (the meeting) out.”