By Madison Downs
BPA Historian (and West Clermont student)
West Clermont/Great Oaks students become leaders
West Clermont/Great Oaks Business Professionals of America members kicked off the year by participating in the Chick-fil-a Leader Academy through the generous sponsorship of Tom Sutton, owner of the Eastgate Chick-fil-a. The Chick-fil-a Leader Academy’s main focus is “Impact Through Action.” The goal is to help high schoolers become an impact in their local community through different community projects and charities. The Leader Academy is training the next leaders. BPA decided to join to better prepared to lead the community.
To kick off the year, students began with Operation Gratitude. Volunteers assembled and sent care packages including candy, letters hand written by BPA members, survival bracelets, and personal care items to active military troops.
Another focus of Chick-fil-a Leader Academy is “Thanking the people who have thanked us.” The senior BPA members wrote thank you notes and gave gift cards donated by Chick-fil-a to the people they are thankful to, including parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, and family friends. The seniors will be continuing this program each month throughout to gain leadership knowledge and guidance through their community projects.
Business Professionals of America chapter members are part of the Business Management and Financial Services program, a Great Oaks satellite program at West Clermont High School.