2026 Kentucky FBLA State Conference

Between April 27th and April 29th, 43 members of Walton-Verona’s FBLA club attended the 2026 Kentucky FBLA State Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Members participated in conference workshops, competed in individual or team events, and attended “mini field trips” around the city. During conference workshops, members had the opportunity to meet with college admissions officers and potential future employers, as well as develop various business skills such as networking and public speaking. Members were given the chance to showcase these skills during their competitive events, where they were tested or presented on topics such as journalism, event planning, financial management, and more! 

There were also many opportunities for team bonding on the trip, including the impromptu rained-in pool party Monday evening, family dinner and bowling at the Sports and Social Club on Tuesday, and mini field trips across Monday and Tuesday. FBLA officers planned mini field trips to the KFC Yum! Center, Louisville Slugger Museum, and KMAC Art Museum, giving students a chance to experience business operations central to the culture of downtown Louisville first-hand. 

Finally, Tuesday night was the grand awards ceremony everyone had been eagerly anticipating. The top five students in each category were welcomed to the stage to be recognized for their hard work in their competitive event, with the top four advancing to the National Competition in San Antonio, Texas this summer. Below is a list of all the awards given to the WVHS FBLA chapter during this year’s state conference:

1st in Business Communications – Makayla Throckmorton

2nd in Advertising – Andrew Kowcheck

3rd in Local Chapter Nametag – Madelyn Ryan

4th in Event Planning – Lola Stanley and Madelyn Ryan

5th in Computer Game and Simulation – Grant Palmer

5th in Broadcast Journalism – Aislinn Spencer, Ethan Davis, Haylie Rogers

2026 Outstanding Local Chapter Officer – Madelyn Ryan

Congratulations to all FBLA members!