FBLA: THE HISTORY and IMPORTANCE

WHY SHOULD I JOIN?

FBLA HISTORY

The FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) was started in 1937 by Dr. Hamden L. Forkner of Columbia University.

After being excepted by National Council for Business Education in 1942 the first high school chapter was chartered in Johnson City, Tennessee.

The Board of Directors is comprised of local and state educators, business leaders, and the membership division presidents. The Board sets policy and employs a President/CEO, who directs the national staff and Association programs.

Missouri FBLA History

The Missouri FBLA State Chapter received its charter in the spring of 1959.

Prior to the chartering of the state chapter, several local chapters were organized and operated independently.

State Leadership Conferences were held jointly with Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) chapters. In the early 1960s, separate State Leadership Conferences were organized.

In 1968, Mr. Charles Newman, State Director of Business and Office Education, accepted the appointment as State Chairman of FBLA-PBL.

Missouri History Cont.

Through the adoption of a new set of bylaws, the Missouri FBLA State Chapter was organized into districts in the fall of 1969.

The districts were organized to help promote FBLA, determine representation at the State Leadership Conference in competitive events and to expand representation on the state FBLA executive council.

During the last 30 years, the state chapter has grown from 15 districts to 20 districts with over 350 active chapters and 12,440 members.

The Purpose of FBLA

To provide, as an integral part of the instruction program, opportunities for students to develop vocational and career competencies and to promote civic and personal responsibilities.

The FBLA Mission

To bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs.

Why Join FBLA?

Meet and connect with people all over the country Develop a effective leadership style that is crucial

to succeed in tomorrow’s business world Learn the values of effective team work Network with major corporate business leaders Strengthen your resume or application for

scholarships and college admission Have a chance to show off your knowledge about

business in over 40 competitions held at region, state and national level.

Why Join Cont.

Being a member gives you benefits from major FBLA corporate partners in valued discounts.

Have a chance to win numerous amounts of FBLA scholarships

Travel the country and stay in the most luxurious hotels and resorts

FBLA will ultimately change your life

The Goals of FBLA

Develop competent, aggressive business leadership

Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work

Create more interest in and understanding of American business enterprise

Encourage members in the development of individual projects which contribute to the improvement of home, business, and community

The Goals Cont.

Develop character, prepare for useful citizenship, and foster patriotism

Encourage and practice efficient money management

Encourage scholarship and promote school loyalty

Assist students in the establishment of occupational goals

Facilitate the transition from school to work

FBLA Activities and Programs

Besides the local chapter leadership involvements for their school or their community, FBLA offers a variety of unique activities and programs. Held both in the fall and spring, FBLA holds regional, state and national leadership conferences national wide where students can participate to compete in more than 40 competitions or learn from acclaimed business leaders in solid workshops. Recently FBLA started a program aimed at individual excellence; “FBLA Individual Achievement Program”.

How do I join FBLA?

To join FBLA, the process varies depending on which member division you qualify to be in. Basically the process is general for all divisions whether you’re in Junior High, High School or College. Find a local active FBLA chapter near you and ask for the advisor; they’ll provide all the information you need to join.

How much does it cost to join FBLA?

The base pay is $6 to join nationally, but there may be local and state dues involved as well. The best way is to consult your local FBLA chapter.

Join Today!