![FBLA Team is Ready for Opening Session]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1786293166/wallenpaupackorg/wlmx9pcqd0o9pb2gvsg8/FBLAReadyforOpeningsession.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1786293166/wallenpaupackorg/wlmx9pcqd0o9pb2gvsg8/FBLAReadyforOpeningsession.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1786293166/wallenpaupackorg/wlmx9pcqd0o9pb2gvsg8/FBLAReadyforOpeningsession.png","width":800}])
HAWLEY, PA — Eight talented students from the Wallenpaupack Area High School chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) recently traveled to San Antonio, Texas, to compete in the 2026 FBLA National Leadership Conference. Held from late June through early July, the prestigious event brought together thousands of the nation’s brightest young business minds.
The Wallenpaupack delegation represented their school and community with distinction across several highly competitive events. The team of Edward Kiesendahl, Bryce Pagano and Ben Scholl tested their creative and messaging skills in the Public Service Announcement category, while the team of Jessieann Gallagher, Adrianna Milutinovic and Amelia Porcelli demonstrated their storytelling and presentation talents in Broadcast Journalism. Wallenpaupack students also showcased their individual expertise at the national level, with Kody Hanor competing in Graphic Design and McKenna Hanor taking on Intro to Social Media Strategy.
Competition was fierce, with over 13,000 competitors bringing their absolute best. While the Buckhorns did not advance to the finals this year, the national conference provided an invaluable educational milestone. The competitive experience challenged the students to refine their professional skills, think critically under pressure, and benchmark their abilities against the top student business leaders in the country.
Beyond competition, the trip offered unforgettable networking and cultural opportunities. Wallenpaupack students connected and mixed with fellow FBLA members from across the United States. The group enjoyed an exciting pre-competition afternoon riding roller coasters at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, took a scenic and historic River Cruise along the famous San Antonio River Walk, explored the rich history of The Alamo, and took in breathtaking, panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of the Tower of the Americas.
The lasting memories, professional growth, and positive experiences gained during this trip were made possible through strong community backing. The students, along with their FBLA chapter advisers, Melissa Monte and Jim Winagle express their deepest appreciation and gratitude for the incredible support and generosity of the Wallenpaupack Area School District board, administration, and community.
At Philadelphia Airport: (L to R) McKenna Hanor, Kody Hanor, Eddie Kiesendahl, Bryce Pagano, Ben Scholl, Melissa Monte, Jim Winagle, Amelia Porcelli, Jessieann Galagher, Adrianna Milutinovic
At the Alamo: (L to R) Jessieann Gallagher, Amelia Porcelli, Adrianna Milutinovic, Bryce Pagano, Eddie Kiesendahl, Ben Scholl, Kody Hanor, McKenna Hanor
Ready for Opening Session: (L to R) Bryce Pagano, Eddie Kiesendahl, Kody Hanor, McKenna Hanor, Amelia Porcelli, Jessieann Gallagher, Adrianna Milutinovic
Prelims Time: (L to R) Eddie Kiesendahl, Bryce Pagano, Ben Scholl, Kody Hanor
Mini-Golf Time: (L to R) Back Row: Ben Scholl, Bryce Pagano, Kody Hanor, Eddie Kiesendahl; Front Row: Adrianna Milutinovic, Amelia Porcelli, Jessieann Gallagher, McKenna Hanor
About Wallenpaupack Area High School FBLA
The Wallenpaupack Area High School chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences.
Media Contact:
Melissa Monte
Wallenpaupack Area High School FBLA Co-Adviser
Wallenpaupack Area High School
monteme@wallenpaupack.org
570-251-3029
- High School
- WASD