McKendree University Students Participate in FBLA Conference, Bring Home Awards

(LEBANON, Ill., April 17, 2025) – Three students from McKendree University recently participated in the Illinois Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate’s annual State Leadership Conference, which took place on March 29 and 30 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield, Ill. This conference brings together ambitious college students from across the state for a weekend of leadership development, competition and networking. McKendree students showcased their skills and brought home multiple honors in this state-wide competition.

Senior Tyson Thompson of Okawville, Ill., earned first place in Foundations of Marketing, second in Foundations of Economics, and third place in Foundations of Computer Science. Sophomore Anna Rose Sheehan of Du Quoin, Ill., took home first place in Impromptu Speaking. Finally, sophomore Denaysha Jackson of Springfield, Ill., earned third place in Foundations of Hospitality. Other schools that participated from the Metro East St. Louis region along with McKendree University are Kaskaskia College, Lewis and Clark Community College and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

The 2025 State Leadership Conference featured a dynamic lineup of workshops, keynote speakers, and competitive events that challenged students to demonstrate their business acumen. Those attending also had the opportunity to network with business professionals, learn from industry experts and collaborate with peers who share their passion for leadership and innovation.

The Illinois FBLA Collegiate is a premier business-student organization dedicated to preparing students for careers in business, entrepreneurship and leadership. With chapters at colleges and universities throughout Illinois, the organization provides members with real-world business experience, professional development opportunities and connections to industry leaders.

For more information, please visit www.ilfbla.org.

 

-McK-