Standing on Business, FBLA Earns 2nd Place

Park City High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) team earned second place overall out of 15 schools at the Metro Region competition this week. More than 50 students participated in business, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and digital media events, showing strong communication skills, creativity, and teamwork. The overall score reflects growing momentum in the program and a One Park City approach where learning is personal and every path is possible, giving students the support and confidence to explore their interests and compete at a high level.

Park City High School Business and Marketing educators Ryan Cook and Janine Knight lead the FBLA chapter, supporting students as they prepare for competitions and learn real-world business concepts. Many students placed in individual categories, helping lift Park City to its second-place finish and setting them up for the upcoming state competition.

“The Future Business Leaders of America region competition gave students the opportunity to pursue their business passions outside the classroom in a hands-on, real-world environment,” said Cook. “With over 50 students participating, each student was able to pursue a topic that allowed them the opportunity for growth in an area of personal passion.” 

Park City High School senior Maddie Jaquet earned first place in Public Speaking, one of the most competitive FBLA presentation events. Jaquet arrived at the competition prepared to present in a marketing category, but when a teammate was unable to perform, she stepped into the public speaking event with only 90 minutes of preparation. The competition requires students to write and memorize a seven-minute speech, a task many prepare for months in advance. 

This year’s topic, “How to Overcome Hardship,” allowed Jaquet to share her personal story of stepping into the event unexpectedly and embracing the challenge. Her polished delivery, confidence and compelling message led to a first-place finish.

The Graphic Design team of Sadie Weissman (11th), Sidney Hatcher (11th) and Lila Jacoby (11th) also earned first place by completing a full visual redesign for Fulston, a local luxury home company. Their comprehensive branding work and polished presentation demonstrated strong design skills, strategic thinking and clear communication.

Second-place recognitions included:
• Website Design: Gus Kossick (11th), Cooper Salmon (10th) and Mason Marchetti (11th)
• Entrepreneurship: Max Esper (11th), Lorenzo Grandjacquet (11th) and Alex Morrison (11th)
• Intro to Business Presentation: Lauren Joiner (9th) and Grace Warburton (9th)

Third-place recognitions included:
• Business Ethics: Sophie Dunkel (11th), Alix Finkel (11th) and Alana Kirschner (11th)
• Banking and Financial Systems: Athena Mills (12th), Charlie Taylor (12th) and Graham Zynczak (11th)

Fourth-place recognitions included:
• Marketing: Chloe Aldous (12th) and Maddie Jaquet (12th)
• Job Interview: Rachel Riff (11th)
• Visual Design: Avery Hill (12th) and Angeline Schmutz (12th)
• Sports and Entertainment Management: Gavin Gurule (10th), Brody Lobdell (11th) and Charlie Ginster (11th)

Fifth-place recognitions included:
• Hospitality and Tourism: Anya Paradis (10th), Genivieve Louis (11th) and Cece Reed (10th)
• Intro to Public Speaking: Issy Power (9th)
• PSA: Gabi Bailey (12th) and Elle Warburton (12th)
• Impromptu Speaking: Taylor Bergman (12th)

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is the largest career and technical student organization in the country, giving students opportunities to explore real-world business concepts, develop leadership skills, and compete in industry-based events. Park City High School’s FBLA chapter continues to grow, with regional success positioning students for potential advancement at state and national competitions later this school year.