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Fall Leadership Conference Successful! |
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If you think screening for regional officer elections is nerve wracking, try screening for state office. Then consider the feeling of being chosen as one of the 12 members to campaign and run for a position on the state officer team. As mind boggling and surreal the screening and campaigning processes are, they were the best experiences of my life. I was absolutely thrilled when my advisor told me I had been selected to campaign and run for an officer position. My campaign manager and I quickly began working on a campaign and selecting a good slogan that would help members to remember me when they voted. Before I even knew it, it was time for me to present my campaign and speech in front of approximately 2,500 Business Professionals of America, Ohio Association, members. The very first activity was the campaign rally in which the candidates distribute promotional information to as many members as possible in hopes of gaining the votes needed to become one of the state officers. But the real show begins when each candidate expresses his or her qualifications and explains why it is essential that he/she become a part of the officer team. Following the speeches, the entire assembly breaks for lunch and the voting occurs. Members cast their ballot for the six candidates they believe are most impressive. In addition, votes are cast for one of 25 pin designs which have been submitted by local chapters and pre-screened. The last session began with a keynote speaker, Bruce Buguski, as he provided words of wisdom and inspiration. The 2004-2005 state officer team members presented their farewells as they start a new chapter in their lives. Finally, the new 2005-2006 officer team was announced and installed. The new team is as follows: Ashley Pawelski, Parliamentarian; Precious Printers, Historian; Dustin Walker, Treasurer; Arielle Sweeney, Secretary; Bailey Abbott, Vice President; and Colby McClure, President. Each of the officers is proud and honored to be a part of the team and look forward to the experience. If you have an opportunity to run for an office in Business Professionals of America, be sure to do so. It is an experience that you will never forget and will benefit you tremendously! |