The annual conference, this spring held in Charlotte, is designed to help members prepare for careers in the business world, said Rachel Loescher, local chapter president. “The conferences help fulfill the Phi Beta Lambda goals, which include facilitating the transition from school to work, assisting students in the establishment of occupational goals and encouraging students to develop projects that contribute to the improvement of home, business and community,” Loescher said.

This year, students from more than 30 colleges and universities throughout the state gathered at the conference to attend leadership development seminars and compete in 55 business areas.

Loescher, daughter of Mark and Carmel Loescher of Hendersonville, placed first in the areas of accounting analysis and decision making, and future business executive. Selected to Who’s Who in North Carolina Phi Beta Lambda, Loescher also won the Phi Beta Lambda career and membership achievement program president award, and received a scholarship from the North Carolina Phi Beta Lambda Foundation.

Mallory Johnson, local chapter secretary and daughter of Rusty and Sylvia Johnson of Rutherfordton, placed first in computer applications.

Hayes Brumbeloe, local chapter vice president and son of Bob and Jane Brumbeloe of Fuquay Varina, placed third in the area of business plans and eighth in sales presentations.

Local Chapter Vice President Michelle Mira, daughter of Carlos and Sheila Mira of Franklin, placed seventh in hospitality management and eighth in marketing concepts.

The WCU chapter received a gold star chapter award and won fifth place for its local chapter annual business report. In addition, the chapter was recognized for its reactivation after five years of inactivity.