The Monroe-Woodbury Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) induction ceremony was held on Thursday, December 13 in the high school auditorium at 6:00 p.m.

“I solemnly promise to uphold the aims and responsibilities,” said the newly inducted members of the FBLA club at their induction ceremony.

The club member’s friends and families were invited to attend as well. The newly inducted officers lighted different colored candles to show their commitment and agreement to follow their duties.

Mrs. Palkaunieks, the advisor said the members are “very interested in wanting to participate in the activities and events we have.”

Future business leaders of America (FBLA) began in New York State in 1946. Dobbs Ferry High School was the first to start in the state. In 1964, New York was the thirty-fifth state association of the Future Business Leaders of America.

FBLA has been in Monroe-Woodbury since the 1970s. 

Their meetings begin by members reading the state officer updates and then discuss upcoming events and activities. Students partake in fundraisers and community events to show their leadership abilities.

Mrs. Palkaunieks said, “It is a national organization which not only is at the high school level but now also in the middle school level and carries on through adult life in the college and professional level.”

This year, students volunteered in a blood drive at the school and the school play. They also participated in a Gertrude Hawk Chocolate fundraiser for FBLA. Some students also went to North Carolina for The Fall District Meeting.

“I joined FBLA to get more leadership, public speaking, presentation, and business skills,” said Claire Donnelly, who joined this year.

In February, members had the option to attend the Spring District Meeting (SDM) where they participated in different events on the topics of business and math. Some events are writing tests while others are presentations and long term projects.

“FBLA is one of the best opportunities to connect with students outside of our community,” said President Victoria Lee. “Learn about the business world, and overall, develop strong leadership qualities that will be beneficial everywhere.”