Six Altoona-Midway students participate in the National STAR Event Competition

ORLANDO – The 2025 FCCLA National Leadership Conference took place in Orlando, Florida, from July 5-9, 2025, drawing more than 10,000 students, educators, and guests from across the nation. This gathering provided a valuable platform for attendees to expand their leadership skills, sharpen their talents, explore career pathways, and listen to inspiring speakers.

The highly anticipated Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) Events were at the heart of the conference. Over 4,300 FCCLA Members competed in these events, where they were recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation. The collaboration between youth and adults in managing the events and evaluating participants allowed students to develop real-world skills and gain valuable insights.

STAR Events are pivotal in supporting student development by enhancing their classroom experience and guiding them toward successful career pathways. With more than 30 events to choose from, participants had the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities by actively addressing essential issues concerning families, careers, or communities. By researching the topic and implementing projects to advocate for positive change, students acquired valuable skills and industry insights needed to thrive in the 21st century.

We are thrilled to share that Blake Nalley, Peyton Drake, Brooklynn Collins, Mika Parsons, Klaire Barlow and Emily Burch proudly represented Altoona-Midway at the FCCLA National Leadership Conference in Orlando.

Blake Nalley competed in FCCLA Chapter Website and achieved a silver medal and placed ninth in the nation.

Peyton Drake and Brooklynn Collins competed in Hospitality, Tourism and Recreation STAR Event and achieved a remarkable GOLD medal, placing 15th in the nation. Klaire Barlow and Emily Burch competed in the STAR Event Promote and Publicize FCCLA, their first time to compete at Nationals, received a silver medal and placed 15th in the nation.

Mika Parsons participated in FCCLA Creed Speaking at the level 2, showcasing her expertise and commitment to excellence in the field of Family and Consumer Sciences. Mika received a silver medal and placed 20th in the nation. Peyton Drake, Brooklynn Collins and Mika Parsons chose to participate in the Human Growth & Development Challenge Test at the Level 2, showcasing their knowledge from what they learned in the Human Growth and Development course taught at Altoona-Midway: Peyton placed 11th; Brooklynn, 14th; and Mika placed 15th.

“I am thrilled to have participated in the Online Challenge Tests and demonstrate the knowledge and skills I have gained through my FCCLA involvement,” said Peyton Drake, Altoona-Midway President “This is a fantastic opportunity to compete at a national level and represent Altoona-Midway MS/HS FCCLA.”

Advisor Cathy Caylor said “The students’ projects exemplifies their dedication, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Their accomplishment at the national level is a testament to their hard work, teamwork, and unwavering passion. I am extremely proud of these students.”