The Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference (NLC) recently took place in Chicago, Illinois from May 10-13, 2024. The Bay College / LSSU Regional Center BPA student club attended the conference, with two student competitors who both medaled in their respective events. Griffin Johnson, the BPA Club President, won first place in Ethics & Professionalism, second place in Prepared Speech, and third place in Contemporary Issues. Tregan Lippens, the BPA Vice President, earned second place in Ethics & Professionalism and fourth place in Contemporary Issues.
This year, the NLC had a record attendance of over 6,500 contestants, including both High School and Collegiate competitors. Griffin Johnson expressed his gratitude to all the sponsors who made the trip possible, highlighting how their support enabled the team to have an unforgettable experience. Johnson described this year’s NLC as one of the best experiences of his life, from competing at a high level to navigating Chicago’s rush hour traffic. He also noted how the trip outside of the Upper Peninsula furthered his educational experience and created lasting memories.
Business Professionals of America (BPA) was officially formed in 1966 as the Office Education Association (OEA). The organization has a rich history of preparing global professionals by advancing leadership, citizenship, academic, and technological skills for students at the Middle, Secondary, and Post-secondary levels. Over the past 50 years, BPA has been at the forefront of Career and Technical Education, offering opportunities for growth through education, competition, community service, and personal development.