Students from Western Technology Center-Sayre Business Professionals of America (BPA) chapter were among the 6,500 attendees representing nearly 800 school chapters who attended the 2024 BPA National Leadership Conference in Chicago, Illinois, May 10-14.
While in Chicago, students vied for top honors in BPA’s Workplace Skill Assessment Program competitions. Conference participants also attended professional development workshops, received awards for community service activities, and elected BPA’s 2024-2025 national student leadership team.
The students from Western Technology Center BPASayre Chapter who attended the National Leadership Conference were Callie Long and Josephine Taraco.
Callie Long competed in individual competitions for Word Processing, Health Administration Concepts, and Administrative Support Concepts. She ended up placing in the TOP 10 in the Nation for all her events.
Callie and Josephine (Josie) competed together in a team event: Administrative Support Team and placed 2nd in the nation.
Western Technology Center- Sayre was also awarded the National BPA Cares Award for Special Olympics in recognition of all their fundraising and community service outreaches.
“Participating in the National Leadership Conference is the culmination of a year’s work for our student members and their advisors,” said Dr. Steven J. Mitchell, BPAs Executive Director/CEO. “We applaud all these members who demonstrated workplace skills in competitive events, gained new insights by participating in workshops, earned valuable industry certifications, or were recognized for individual or chapter achievements.”
“I couldn’t be prouder of my students’ performance at the BPA National Leadership Conference in Chicago. They exceeded all expectations, showcasing their talent, dedication, and leadership skills on a national stage. Their achievements speak volumes about their hard work and determination, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to guide and support them on this incredible journey.” - Mrs. Silk, WTC-Sayre Business Technology Instructor While in Chicago, participants also had opportunities to network with other BPA members and business leaders,
activities honoring the Special Olympics, BPA’s national service project.
