Illinois Collegiate FBLA successfully hosted its 2025 Fall Leadership Conference on October 4, bringing together members from across the state for a full day of networking, professional growth, and leadership development. The conference welcomed 36 attendees representing four different schools, all united by a shared goal of strengthening their skills and preparing for future success. The organization extends its sincere gratitude to Bradley University for their generous hospitality in serving as the host institution for this impactful event.
Participants engaged in a variety of interactive workshops designed to prepare members for both State and National Leadership Conferences. The day included icebreakers, SLC and NLC preparation sessions, and hands-on activities focused on professional development. In one of the opening workshops, attendees learned that failure is a natural and necessary part of personal growth and that embracing setbacks leads to improvement rather than discouragement. An additional interactive session provided practical guidance on professional dress and delivering confident, effective presentations.
The conference also featured two outstanding guest speakers, Christina Wickenhauser, Illinois FBLA’s 2024–2025 Advisor of the Year, and Bernice Gordon-Young, Peoria City Council member, business owner, and social change advocate. Both speakers delivered powerful messages that encouraged members to strengthen their leadership skills, embrace resilience, and pursue excellence in their academic and professional journeys.
Gordon-Young delivered a presentation titled “Entrepreneur Insights,” during which she shared her inspiring journey to becoming a community leader. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with the SMART Recovery Intervention Program, Founder and President of It Takes a Village in Peoria, Illinois, and a Peoria City Council member, Gordon-Young spoke passionately about service, perseverance, and the importance of uplifting others. Her message deeply resonated with attendees and reinforced the idea that leadership begins with a commitment to community.
Beyond professional growth, the Fall Leadership Conference created meaningful opportunities for members to bond with their chapters, connect with students from across Illinois, and build confidence for competitive events. Throughout the day, students were reminded that today’s connections can become tomorrow’s professional relationships, an idea that perfectly reflects FBLA’s mission to inspire and develop future business leaders with a community-centered mindset.
The 2025 Illinois Collegiate FBLA Fall Leadership Conference was a powerful reminder of the organization’s commitment to leadership, service, and professional excellence. Attendees left the conference energized, inspired, and better prepared to lead both in competition and in their communities.
Submitted by Julia Janus, Illinois FBLA Collegiate
