East Stroudsburg University Hosts FBLA Conference

East Stroudsburg University recently hosted the Region 28 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Conference. The conference included students from Easton High School, Lehigh Career & Technical Institute (LCTI), Northampton High School, Northern Lehigh High School, and Southern Lehigh High School, and the theme was “Speak to Lead: Powerful Public Speaking for Success.” The event focused on building student confidence and developing presentation skills that leave a lasting impression.

The conference brought together ESU faculty and business leaders from the Pocono Mountains region to provide students with valuable insights into the hospitality, sport, and business industries. The day began with two interactive sessions led by Carol Dimopoulos, Ed.D., assistant professor of business management; Robert Thomas, instructor of business management; Edward Arner, Ed.D., assistant professor of sport management; Yongwook Ju, Ph.D., assistant professor of hospitality, recreation & tourism; ESU FBLA Chapter E-board members, and HRTM student volunteers. These sessions introduced students to key industry concepts while reinforcing the importance of effective communication, leadership, and adaptability in today’s professional environment.

The event also featured an industry panel, which fostered dialogue between students and regional professionals. The panel, moderated by Don Pleau, General Manager of Kalahari Resort, included Chris Barrett, President of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB); Jim Hamill of Pocono Television Network (PTN); and Liz McDonald, Assistant General Manager of the Sherman Theater. Panelists shared their experiences, discussed industry trends, and emphasized the importance of communication, adaptability, and leadership in today’s evolving business landscape.

“Through this collaborative initiative, ESU continues to reinforce its commitment to career-connected, experiential learning by creating opportunities for students to engage directly with faculty and industry leaders,” said Sylvester Williams, Dean of the College of Business and Management. “The success of the FBLA Conference highlights the university’s role in preparing the next generation of business professionals and leaders.”

For more information about ESU COBM programs and partnerships, please visit ESU’s College of Business and Management website.

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