FBLA Craig McFadden

I worked for months to prepare for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state office election. I designed my flyers and baseball-style trading cards, delivered my speech to the 150 electors, and campaigned during the state conference, asking voters to "place their order for the Big Mac-Fadden." Yet, tears trickled down my cheek when "Cassandra Mindt" flashed on the screen where "Craig McFadden" should have appeared. Although I lost the election, I was determined to continue to thrive in the organization. I reminded myself that the most valuable experiences don't come without challenges.

Four months later, I was rewarded with an invitation to serve on the nine-state Mountain Plains Region Membership Committee. The position was a platform to connect with students and community leaders at the national level. I was excited to utilize the leadership skills I had gained as Cavalier's local chapter President to enhance membership and community service throughout the Mountain Plains region. I dedicated myself to the position, creating a member-recruitment video and coordinating the March to Denver fundraiser for the March of Dimes.

My work with FBLA has required me to apply the knowledge...