Minot State Phi Beta Lambda chapter receives national awards
MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University College of Business students received recognition at the Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA-PBL) 2020 National Leadership Experience.
Walking away with awards were Zachary Keller, with an eighth-place finish in Networking Concepts; Katherine Klemetsrud, fourth place in Insurance Concepts; Linh Le, second place in Accounting for Professionals and third place in Cost Accounting; Jodi Spangler, Who’s Who; and Tanner Thompson, First Place National Champion in Local Chapter Annual Business Report.
The event, which connects middle school, high school, and collegiate-level students through competitive events, leadership sessions, and networking, convened online with more than 10,000 participants.
“Attending PBL Nationals Leadership Experience in June was nothing ordinary,” Le said. “Unlike other years, when we could travel to another city and connect with other students and professionals, this year we had to do it all online. Despite that, the national team pulled their best effort into creating an online experience for us with opening and closing sessions, competitive events, and social networking meetings, just like in-person — props to them for that.
“I was glad to have a chance to virtually meet new people, hear career advice from professionals, and especially, compete against other students in different states.”
In addition to an impressive showing at the National Leadership Experience, Minot State PBL chapter members are also heavily involved in the North Dakota PBL.
“Minot State is proud to have three members hold state officer positions for the 2020-21 year: Hannah Heisler, vice president of communications; Melanie MacPherson, vice president of finance; and Tanner Thompson, vice president of operations,” said Jan Repnow, Minot State PBL chapter co-advisor and College of Business assistant professor.
The Upsilon Sigma chapter of Phi Beta Lamda at Minot State was chartered in 1971, with Doris Slaaten and John Doering serving as the first advisors. Other faculty advisors have included Gary Ross, Sharon Reynolds, and Dean Frantsvog.
Slaaten, who passed away on Oct. 11, continued as advisor until her retirement in 1984. She was a longtime Minot State business instructor and benefactor who’s many contributions to the University included the College of Business Slaaten Learning Center. She turned 100 on Oct. 5
“Recently, I visited with Doris and she said that, ‘PBL meant the world to me. I so enjoyed working with so many talented business students throughout the years,’” said Repnow. “Doris exemplified ‘active’ advising by showing that she worked with the students to accomplish their goals.”
Slaaten also established the Doris A. Slaaten Scholarship, awarded to a full-time College of Business student every year.
The Minot State PBL chapter is currently meeting on campus and via Zoom due to the coronavirus. Students interested in joining the organization should contact the club president, Hannah Heisler at hannah.heisler@MinotStateU.edu, for more information.
“During the pandemic, PBL has had to adapt to a new way of doing things,” said Megan Fixen, Minot State PBL chapter co-advisor and College of Business assistant professor. “However, the group has risen to the occasion. The transition has sparked creative modifications and efforts to stay connected.”
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 10/13/20 |
