Central ND News

Bismarck State College (BSC) announced that Alexis Ritzman from Mandan, North Dakota, earned fourth place in the Emerging Business Issues category at the FBLA Collegiate National Leadership Conference. The conference, which took place from June 24-27 in Orlando, Florida, focuses on business education, competition, and networking for college students.

According to BSC, over 12,000 students from nearly 2,100 schools across 43 states and territories and two countries participated in more than 100 business-related events at the conference. They attended over 200 workshops and interacted with representatives from over 100 organizations, including major companies and military branches. BSC student Medora Ellingson also competed in business ethics and, along with Alexis Ritzman, advanced to the final round in the marketing, sales, and communication category.

"Alexis’s outstanding achievement is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and exceptional skills in business. Her success at this highly competitive event only highlights her capabilities but also sets a strong foundation for her future career," says Kristina Wells, BSC associate professor of computer and office technology.

In line with Wells's sentiment, according to a press release by BSC, FBLA Interim President & CEO Randy W. Fiser said: "Our student members brought their best to Orlando and impressed our more than 800 judges with their extensive knowledge in areas as diverse as accounting to impromptu speaking to sports management. As they return home from this transformative experience, they do so with more self-confidence, more professional contacts, and more tools to lead the workforce of the future."

FBLA is the largest business career and technical student organization globally, supporting over 230,000 members annually in preparing for business careers. Its mission is to inspire and prepare students to become community-focused business leaders through career preparation and leadership experiences. FBLA emphasizes ethical conduct, including inclusivity, respect, and accountability.