Courtney Erickson of the Pioneer Technology Center Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter recently attended the 2008 FCCLA National Leadership Meeting in Orlando, Florida, and experienced "Excellence Electrified!"

Erickson traveled with the 186 delegates from Oklahoma who also attended the meeting. More than 5,000 students from across the nation and Puerto Rico made the trip to Orlando this year.

The national meeting included STAR Events competition and recognition. Students compete for a gold, silver, or bronze award for their hard work on yearlong projects. Courtney Erickson, a senior from Newkirk High School competed in the Illustrated Talk and came away with the gold medal.

Oklahoma State FCCLA Adviser Denise Morris says, "The National Leadership Meeting is a great way for student members and advisers to learn all they can about their organization and the resources that are available to them."

"Excellence Electrified!" was the theme of the 2008 National Leadership Meeting. Youth were encouraged through the theme to explore career options, community service needs and to focus on family relations. The theme also encouraged active involvement in national FCCLA programs, including STOP the Violence, F.A.C.T.S., Families Acting for Community Traffic Safety, and many others.

Workshops, general sessions, vendors, exhibits, motivational speakers, 2008-2009 national officer elections and theme celebrations were just some of the activities for participants.

For more information about Pioneer Tech’s FCCLA chapter or a career options in early care and human services, call 580-762-8336.