Holland Patent Students Advance to State Leadership Competition

The Holland Patent Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter put their business knowledge to the test at the Spring District Competition, with all ten students qualifying for the New York State FBLA Leadership Competition.  

The team, made up of students in grades 9 through 12, has spent the school year preparing for competitive events that mirror real-world business scenarios. Under the guidance of their advisers, Tyler Carroll and Sean Clark, students developed skills in communication, leadership, technology, entrepreneurship and problem-solving. 

This year’s competition challenged students across a wide range of business-related topics, including public speaking, project management, cybersecurity, journalism, marketing and business strategies. 

“Our students continue to raise the bar through their dedication and professionalism,” said Carroll. “I could not be more proud of what they’ve accomplished.” 

Individual Results

Liz Buckland – first in job interview, first in business communication, second in computer problem solving 

Kahlan Williamson – first in project management, first in impromptu speaking, first in visual design 

Michayla Sandler – second in public speaking, first in business plan 

Keira Crossway – first in visual design, fourth in computer problem solving, fifth in cybersecurity 

Grace Hannah – first in visual design, third in computer problem solving, second in business communication 

Thomas Howard – first in agribusiness, fourth in journalism 

Kaidence King – first in introduction to public speaking 

Izabella Walters – first in network design, third in graphic design, third in journalism 

Elasandra Packard – first in business plan, first in introduction to retail and merchandising

Hanna Foxwell – first in business plan, fifth in introduction to marketing concepts

Program Highlights

Innovative Business Planning

Students Michayla Sandler, Hanna Foxwell and Elasandra Packard collaborated on a comprehensive business plan for “Situationships,” a proposed dating app designed to help Gen Z users navigate early-stage relationships through guided communication prompts. Their project earned top honors in the business plan category. 

Standout Performance

Kahlan Williamson swept all three of her events, earning first place in project management, impromptu speaking and visual design. Judges noted her exceptional poise and clarity during her impromptu speech, prepared in just five minutes.

Leadership in Action

FBLA President Liz Buckland demonstrated exemplary leadership earlier in the week by managing chapter meetings. She coordinated team members, addressed challenges and ensured the group remained organized and competition-ready.

“We congratulate our students on their outstanding achievements, which highlight both their individual dedication and the strength of the FBLA program,” said High School Principal Russ Stevener. 

The Holland Patent FBLA chapter will compete at the State Leadership Competition in April, held in Rochester, where students will face top performers from across New York.