Local high school students traveled to Bluefield University on Thursday, October 2, 2025, to attend the Fall Conference of the New River Region Future Business Leaders of America.
The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is a global career and technical organization for middle school, high school, and college students. It engages members through community service projects, education programs, and competitive events. The New River Region chapter includes Abingdon, Bland County, Carroll County, Chilhowie, Fort Chiswell, Galax, George Wythe, Giles, Graham, Grayson County, Holston, John Battle, Marion, Narrows, Northwood, Patrick Henry, Pulaski County, Richlands, Rural Retreat, Tazewell, and Wallace schools.
“We are excited to welcome the Future Business Leaders of America to our campus, where innovation meets collaboration,” said Dr. Angela Cline, Dean of the Caudill School of Business. “Together, let’s inspire the next generation of visionaries and entrepreneurs! We are thankful to the advisors and FBLA leadership for their dedication to the conference.”
FBLA members were welcomed by Bluefield University’s admissions staff and President, Dr. Steve Peterson.
Between group sessions, FBLA members toured the Bluefield University campus. Students also participated in workshops about teamworking skills, job interview tips, the FBLA organization, and Virginia FBLA’s partnership with the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation.
At the closing session, Dr. Cline discussed higher education opportunities and encouraged students to apply for BU’s accelerated business degree program to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Business Administration in four years.