Oak Knoll senior Celia Peri ’20, of Chester, recently qualified to compete at the state level of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) – the first time an Oak Knoll student has qualified to compete at the state level.

FBLA is the high school division of Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda, Inc., which was brought to Oak Knoll three years ago by Upper School math teacher and STEM coordinator Joseph Bennett.

FBLA teaches and inspires students interested in entrepreneurship careers and the business world through academic competitions, leadership development and educational programs.

FBLA’s National Awards Program gives students the opportunity to compete against the best-of-the-best in more than 60 academic events covering technology, public speaking, business, finance, management and more.

Ms. Peri, who has been a member of FBLA since her sophomore year, earned one of the top eight scores on her Regional Organizational Leadership Exam in December. In preparation for the exam, she studied quizlets and took practice tests on organizational leadership learning topics such as management theories and leadership styles.

She said she hopes that her success will inspire other potential future businesswomen, businesswomen of color and entrepreneurs at Oak Knoll.

“I am proud to be the first representative of Oak Knoll’s FBLA Chapter at the state level,” said Ms. Peri, who plans on pursing business in college. “I hope to continue to represent Oak Knoll and FBLA throughout my last year here and to show other fellow young women of promise the career-oriented opportunities available to them at the high school level.”

Ms. Peri will take a 100 question/60-minute examination as part of the state event, again on organizational leadership, and may then advance to the national conference this summer depending her state score exam.

“In addition to demonstrating passion and leadership as an FBLA officer, Celia regularly shares her desire to infuse her entrepreneurial instincts and spirit in whatever field she chooses to pursue,” said Mr. Bennett. “I am very proud of her achievement and look forward to seeing her future in the business world unfold.”