FCCLA allows many students the opportunity for learning and practicing leadership. On March 27-29 many FCCLA members were able to do just that. The Gilbert FCCLA Chapter along with over 500 members from FCCLA chapters across the state attended the Iowa FCCLA State Leadership Conference on March 26-27, 2012. At the conference, they were able to compete to qualify for National Leadership Conference in STAR events. They were also able to learn many new things from a comedic speaker in general sessions and lots of leadership tips from various interest sessions including a speaker from the Iowa Barnstormers team. Zumba was an optional activity where students could learn how to have fun dancing and get a good workout at the same time. Members grew closer together and had a blast. Gilbert FCCLA Chapter member Mariah McGuire attended the conference and was elected as a member of the Iowa FCCLA 2012-2013 State Executive Council. After completing an application in January, the candidates gave speeches to the Iowa delegation about the leadership they would provide for the state association. McGuire was elected as the Iowa FCCLA First Vice President. The State Executive Council is made up of eight high school FCCLA members across the state of Iowa who will be trained in professionalism, communication, and technology. Their duties will include creating a program of work, planning for state-wide events, and working to promote Iowa FCCLA. The State Executive Council’s Program of Work will be filled with planning, speaking, travelling, personal growth, and, of course, fun! The FCCLA State Leadership Conference was an opportunity for many students to learn how to live healthier, more organized lives and be better leaders in the school and community.