Eastern Students Attend National Conference
(Press Release 12-20-05)
Hank Mooney, Office of Public Information

Submitted photo & story

EASTERN PBL DELEGATION ATTENDS
2005 FBLA–PBL NATIONAL FALL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Unlock Your Potential—the theme of the 2005 FBLA–PBL National Fall Leadership Conference—was exactly what seven delegates from the Eastern Oklahoma State College chapter of Phi Beta Lambda achieved as they attended the conference held in Kansas City, Missouri, November 11–12.

Members attended workshops and general sessions, and networked with students from across the country, Workshops attended included Suit for Success, Developing a Program of Work, Annual Report/Project Event Preparation, Encourage Leadership, Humor in the Workplace, Virtual Chapters, Leadership Skills for Win–Win Relationships, Leadership Habits of Effective People, and panel discussions on PBL Opportunities and Leadership Skills.

Members joined over 2,000 students from across the country for the opening general session. Keynote speaker was Gary Zelesky. Zelesky has been speaking publicly since 1975 and began somewhat by fate. Professional speaking was not a career he was pursuing but a career that was pursuing him. He has traveled around the world delivering his entertaining style of motivation.

“He was great!” said Mandy Atkinson, Wilburton freshman. “I really enjoyed listening to him. He gave us a lot to think about.” Keynote speaker for the closing general session was Josh Shipp. Shipp is an internationally–known speaker for school assemblies, youth conferences, and educational events. His message is simple, yet powerful. Entertaining, yet challenging. He has spoken to over one million people, hosted a reality television show, and has shared the stage with Bill Cosby. He has the ability to connect on a rare level, to inspire, motivate, and get young people to THINK about their lives. Abandoned, neglected, and abused as a child, Shipp’s personal story of triumph over tragedy inspires youth to overcome life struggles and to live life to the fullest.

“I had a great time!” added Amanda Mayhew, Wilburton freshman. “It was my first national conference and I am looking forward to attending the National Leadership Conference this summer in Nashville.”

Attending from Eastern were Mayhew; Atkinson; Jayme Darragh, Hatfield, AR; Jessie Goodin, Quinton; Lizzie Cahill, Canadian; Ognjen Vlaskalin, Serbia; and Linda Morgan, Advisor.

Eastern attendees would like to thank the following businesses for their financial support: Wilburton State Bank, Roy’s Cardinal Food Store, Latimer State Bank, Hill’s Tax Service, Red Oak Branch of Farmers State Bank, Sue McCasland, and H & L Gas.

Caption info:
Students attending the conference include from front left: Jayme Darragh, Hatfield, AR; Ognjen Vlaskalin, Serbia and Lizzie Cahill, Carrollton, TX. Back Row: Jessie Goodin, Eufaula; Mandy Atkinson, Wilburton; Amanda Mayhew, Wilburton; and Linda Morgan, Advisor.