Atlantic Technical HS
BPA has been the best thing that happened to me, and I am committed to continuing its mission in the Florida chapter. One of my favorite-aspects of BPA is its role as a place for innovative ideas and fostering positive-change. This has driven my goal to enhance our organization’s direction and provide the best experiences that benefit our members. I hope to be elected, so I could use my abilities to guide and represent peers as well as my dedication to effective advocacy for members’ needs, drawing on practical-experience in team management and decision-making to contribute to the chapter’s improvement.
Gladyne Merone
What experiences have you had in Business Professionals of America to prepare you for state office?
Being a leader in my school’s BPA Chapter has allowed me to develop the team leadership and management skills. This role allows me to actively engage in meetings, ensuring understanding members’ needs. These experiences supplied me with effective communication and responsiveness makes me prepared for the role of representing our office.
What experiences have you had outside of BPA to prepare you for state office?
I have been involved in various organizations, primarily as a member. Additionally, I founded a resource-sharing organization with 2000 followers and a community of members, aiding 5+ individuals. These experiences have shaped my leadership and organizational skills, effectively preparing me for a state-office role from both leader’s and member’s perspective.
What makes you a leader?
To me, a leader is not only someone capable of leading their team but also someone who can understand others’ needs. I believe I can fulfill these requirements with my positive energy, communication skills, and a clear vision. Through collaboration with others, I will contribute to both individual and BPA-success.
Can you commit time to being a state officer?
Absolutely! BPA has been a significant part of my life, and I am wholeheartedly committed to dedicating the necessary time and effort as a state officer. I understand the responsibilities and am prepared to prioritize this role, ensuring active engagement and contributing to the organization’s growth and success.
What changes and enhancements will you make as a state officer?
I plan to promote inclusivity and growth by introducing innovative initiatives for members throughout Florida and improving communication channels to schools’ chapters. The enhancement aims to foster an inclusive environment where members not only compete at SLC but also gain knowledge and leave inspired to pursue their passions.
What do you think your biggest challenge as state officer will be?
Communication gaps and new ideas. To me, effective communication is crucial for success, and with our officer team spread across the state, there may be a risk of conflicts in miscommunication. Additionally, running out of new ideas could also pose a challenge in bringing the best to the organization.
I had the honor and pleasure of serving as FLBPA’s Vice President this past year. This unforgettable experience has taught me leadership, communication, and friendship. Throughout this time, I acquired discounts from nearby Disney Springs restaurants, kept up communications with my buddy region, and developed FLBPA’s first newsletter. However, there is still more to be done. I will strive to expand my goals of improving communication to members and lowering economic barriers for members. I aim to enhance our newsletter, promote direct communications between chapter members and state officers, and finally, reach out directly to businesses and institutions for sponsorships.
What experiences have you had in Business Professionals of America to prepare you for state office?
I have the distinction of serving as Florida BPA’s State Vice President as well as my chapter’s President. Throughout this time, I have outreached to businesses, developed FLBPA’s first newsletter, organized meetings, and collaborated with an officer team. These experiences have been vital to my leadership, teamwork, and friendship.
What experiences have you had outside of BPA to prepare you for state office?
I have leadership experience serving as NJHS President, volunteering as a Teen Court attorney, and holding officer positions in Speech and Debate. In addition, my internships at the State Attorney’s Office, Christine Law, PA, and Better Health International have furthered my organization, communication, and law and business knowledge.
What makes you a leader?
I recognize that being a good leader means promoting cohesion among one’s team. I have served in many leadership roles and am experienced in both managing and working with a team. My dedication to my team’s welfare and drive for success makes me a leader.
Can you commit time to being a state officer?
Absolutely! I will continue committing my time and effort to being a state officer. Throughout this year, I have prioritized my BPA responsibilities first, allocating several hours a week towards BPA. I haven’t missed a single meeting this year. :)
What changes and enhancements will you make as a state officer? I will expand on my goals of making SLC more affordable and improving communications with members. I would like to make deadlines and opportunities (including Torch Awards, scholarships, etc…) clear to members earlier. I will also take additional measures to reduce conference costs by placing a larger focus on sponsorships. What do you think your biggest challenge as state officer will be? I think getting sponsorships will be my biggest challenge next year. I plan on formally outreaching to businesses, institutions, and other organizations. If re-elected, I will place a greater focus on this. |
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” These words reflect my BPA journey: when I first joined, I was hesitant, taking wobbly and unconfident steps as I navigated my way through my first competition. However, thanks to the exposure and opportunities provided by this organization, I took more confident and stronger steps, eventually stepping into more leadership positions. BPA has allowed me to take those first steps toward achieving my goals, and I wish to provide that opportunity for all members of BPA. So, this SLC, take a step with me toward your incredible adventure today!
What experiences have you had in Business Professionals of America to prepare you for state office?
Throughout my involvement in state and national leadership competitions, I have honed my ability to remain composed and present myself effectively. These skills will undoubtedly serve me well in my future endeavors as a state officer.
What experiences have you had outside of BPA to prepare you for state office?
I co-founded my school’s DECA club to inspire young business leaders and create a supportive community. As a leader, I foster an inclusive environment for students to develop skills and explore interests. This experience taught me invaluable skills and prepared me for future endeavors as a state officer in BPA.
What makes you a leader?
A great leader is not only ambitious and confident but also someone who actively listens to their followers. If elected, I will prioritize the people’s needs, ensuring their voices shape the decisions made by the state office. This sets me apart as a leader who values those they serve.
Can you commit time to being a state officer?
As a state officer for BPA, I am committed to fulfilling my roles and responsibilities with utmost dedication and focus. Ensuring that I prioritize my duties is my primary objective, and I am determined to excel in my position to the best of my abilities.
What changes and enhancements will you make as a state officer? As a state officer, I will prioritize improving communication between the organization and participants. This is especially important for state leadership conferences, where seamless communication between the leadership team and attendees is crucial to ensure the participants get the most out of the experience. What do you think your biggest challenge as state officer will be? One challenge I anticipate would be the learning curve associated with the role. Although it may seem daunting initially, I am confident I can overcome all hurdles. With a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, I am eager to take on this challenge and grow personally and professionally. |
Hello everyone! My name is Mihir Kelkar, and I am a Junior at Seminole High School, currently serving as your FLBPA Treasurer. If re-elected as a BPA State Officer, I will pair the experience I have gained in my past year of service with my continual vision and goals for the organization in order to emphasize the valuable opportunities for growth that are present in BPA. I hope to be able to continue my work in State Office to make BPA an organization for everyone to grow into their own strengths as business professionals!
What experiences have you had in Business Professionals of America to prepare you for state office?
As the current FLBPA Treasurer, a chapter officer, and foremost, a member of BPA, I have gained valuable insight into the needs of BPA as an organization. This coming year, I’m excited to continue the work that I have begun to help BPA members truly Seize the Opportunity!
What experiences have you had outside of BPA to prepare you for state office?
Outside of BPA, my work as an intern in the Seminole County Department of Teaching and Learning has enabled me to develop crucial management skills that are necessary in leading hundreds of members to success. I look forward to utilizing skills gained outside BPA to its benefit!
What makes you a leader?
My vision and commitment to service are what make me a leader. Service is the hallmark of any leader, and the only way of doing so is maintaining a strong commitment to vision. My vision for BPA will allow me to truly serve the members of BPA.
Can you commit time to being a state officer?
Serving as a Florida BPA State Officer is my number one commitment. The only way to truly Seize the Opportunity is to devote the proper amount of time to BPA, and this is something that I will remain committed to throughout the next year.
What changes and enhancements will you make as a state officer? As a BPA State Officer, I would prioritize bridging the communication divide between chapter, regional, and state leadership to promote progress on all levels of the BPA hierarchy. I aim to grow connections in the organization and enrich the organization as a whole! What do you think your biggest challenge as state officer will be? I believe that effectively engaging with members and chapters will be a challenging element of being a state officer. However, I believe that prioritizing communication and collaboration will ensure a successful year and allow Florida BPA to Seize the Opportunity! |
Seminole High School
As a State Officer I hope to foster an enjoyable environment while maintaining the ideals of BPA of developing and empowering students to change the world for the better. Being a chapter officer of BPA at SHS as well as having leadership roles in other clubs has helped me learn how to be decisive, and put others’ needs ahead of mine. Additionally, I would like to add more variety to the workshops and events. By bringing experts in certain fields to share what they know, and having the students participate would be a step in the right direction.
What experiences have you had in Business Professionals of America to prepare you for state office?
For past conferences, I would get my team to join late night calls, and ask others for help as well. By getting outside opinions, and leading within my team, we made it to nationals, and I was able to earn a chapter position, preparing me to become a State Officer.
What experiences have you had outside of BPA to prepare you for state office?
By participating in other clubs such as Model UN, and Taekwondo, I’ve learned important skills such as teamwork. Both coaching and officiating in Taekwondo, and helping others in their Model UN endeavors have helped me to understand how important teamwork and leadership are, and how to implement it myself too.
What makes you a leader?
As an officer of two of the largest clubs in Seminole High School, I understand that leaders cannot just sit back and watch, but do. I can delegate tasks to others, while taking part myself. I can present to a group of people while keeping them engaged and intrigued.
Can you commit time to being a state officer?
Successful individuals like LeBron James, and Oprah Winfrey dedicated countless hours to reach their goals. I am willing to do the same for BPA, making time in my schedule in order to take the effort to lead our state chapter efficiently.
What changes and enhancements will you make as a state officer? As BPA competitors, we are required to attend workshops and career-building opportunities at conferences. My goal is to make these events fun and educational for attendees. By implementing relatable experiences for students, and playing fun games to portray important topics are just a few ways to enhance these experiences. What do you think your biggest challenge as state officer will be? I feel organization will be a challenge. However, challenges do not necessarily have to be a bad thing however. With the size of this club continuously growing, accommodating for everyone, and making sure everything is properly done will surely be hard, but can be done with the right approach. |
In my second term as an officer, I aim to advance our organization by introducing innovative practices and building upon existing systems. Our team has successfully enhanced communication across chapters, regions, and the state. I focus on boosting student involvement in BPA through these initiatives, fostering the creation of new chapters. I am committed to securing additional funding for CTSOs, particularly BPA, to cultivate an enriching environment for students.
What experiences have you had in Business Professionals of America to prepare you for state office?
As a state officer and my chapter’s vice president, I’ve garnered valuable insights from local and state perspectives. From addressing chapter registration challenges to orchestrating successful State Leadership Conferences, these experiences contribute to fostering an organized and effective environment within the FLBPA community.
What experiences have you had outside of BPA to prepare you for state office?
As the vice president of various clubs, I’ve honed my responsibility-taking skills while ensuring smooth communication with teachers and students. This experience uniquely positions me to ensure proper contact with the state board, effectively executing tasks and fulfilling roles within the officer team.
What makes you a leader?
A leader is personable, an effective communicator, and has a futuristic vision for the team. Effective communication is their cornerstone, as they clearly articulate ideas, ensuring mutual understanding among team members. While embracing a futuristic outlook, strategically planning, and inspiring innovation to propel the team toward sustained success.
Can you commit time to being a state officer?
Serving as a BPA state officer will be one of my top priorities, committing to weekly meetings and constantly communicating with fellow officers. I am committed to investing substantial effort to create a better environment for BPA students, ensuring that my goals are achieved effectively and contribute to their success.
What changes and enhancements will you make as a state officer? I aim to implement targeted initiatives for a heightened member experience, fostering lasting impact and sustained growth. Additionally, I seek to create new financial avenues and expand FLBPA into uncharted regions. This strategic move aims to uncover untapped potential, offering our members and organization fresh opportunities for growth and success. What do you think your biggest challenge as state officer will be? As the current State Historian, I’ve realized that integrating FLBPA students’ ideas into BPA is crucial for enhancing their experiences. Transitioning to a state officer role, my primary challenge is amplifying this communication to align opportunities with the specific needs of the FLBPA community, ensuring their continued enrichment. |
