Membership grew sixfold in the Luverne High School Business Professionals of America (BPA) chapter this year.
As a result, 13 LHS students will compete in various categories at the state BPA convention in Minneapolis starting today, March 9.
“We had two students who have previously participated in BPA and have been excellent leaders and a great resource to our new members,” said first-year adviser Katie Kopp.
BPA prepares students for careers in business and information technology through participation in competitive events.
LHS’ students placed at the Region 8 contest in January to qualify for the state contest.
Members competing at the state convention after placing in regional competition are:
•Ella Lanoue, first, digital communications and design.
•Jadyn Hart, Mallory Von Tersch, Averill Sehr, Reese Louwagie, first, podcast production team.
•Reese Louwagie, second, fundamental accounting.
•Kylie Vander Lugt, second, entrepreneurship.
•Kaylee Vorhees, third, interview skills.
•Anja Jarchow, third, fundamental word processing; fourth, fundamental accounting.
•Jadyn Hart, fifth, health administration.
Competing in 11 different categories of open testing will be Augusta Papik, Jaydon Johnson, Connor Bose, Kasey Buss and Maddux Domagala.
State winners will represent Minnesota at the National BPA Conference April 26-30 in Anaheim, California.
Kopp said the BPA’s move back to in-person competitions increased interest in the organization.
The flex period during the school day also provides another avenue for student involvement.
“Meeting during the day allows the students to attend sports practice, work, or other activities after school,” she said.
“The flex period is where our chapter meets and I can help advise students with their events.”
In addition to the competitive events, the state convention also provides opportunities for growth through leadership development, education and community service.