The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is a student organization that offers students the opportunity to compete in career skills competitions at the FBLA State and National Leadership Conferences, to travel, to network with students and professionals across the nation, and to participate in a variety workshops. Chloe Gunderson, a Dickinson State University (DSU) student who is pursuing a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Entrepreneurship, was selected as the 2024-2025 FBLA North Dakota State President.
Can you tell us about yourself?
I am from Powers Lake, North Dakota. I graduated from Minot State University in December of 2023 with Bachelor’s degrees in Marketing, Business Management, and International Business. I began working on my Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Entrepreneurship at Dickinson State University in January of 2024. I work for the Badlands Board of REALTORS® as the Association Executive, and I also work for the DSU Heritage Foundation as a Graduate Assistant for the Blue Hawk Scholarship Fund. Outside of my school and studies, I am involved with Future Business Leaders of America and compete for the Track and Field team as a thrower.
How long have you been involved in the FBLA and what do you like the most about it?
The 2024-25 membership year will be my 11th year of being involved in the organization. This organization has blessed me with many opportunities to polish my leadership skills and immerse myself in the business world. My favorite part about the organization is the opportunities that it gives students. Students can network with local business leaders, meet students from around the country, and receive leadership training to help them with their future endeavors.
Have you served in another FBLA officer position before?
In high school, I served two terms on the State Leadership team. Once as vice president and once as secretary. My first year on the collegiate State Leadership team was the 2022-2023 membership year where I served as vice president of membership. This is my fourth year as a FBLA Officer.
What made you want to apply for the ND FBLA State President position?
FBLA is truly an organization that keeps on giving. In my last year of membership, I felt that it was the right time to step into the role of president and help members reap the benefits of what this organization gives and use my knowledge to expand the association and support members.
What are your goals as ND State FBLA President?
Collegiate Membership numbers have declined tremendously over the past few years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. My goal is to expand membership through conversations with local chapters around the state, as well as with North Dakota high school seniors. I also hope to bolster relationships with FBLA alumni in their respective fields in FBLA communities to bring networking opportunities to members.
DSU has an active FBLA chapter that holds monthly meetings. The FBLA's next meeting will be held on Wednesday, Oct 23 at 7:00 p.m. in May Hall room 308. If you are interested in learning more about the FBLA, please contact amy.kass@dickinsonstate.edu.