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Twenty-four Holmes Middle School students attended the 2016 Colorado FCCLA State Conference March 31 – April 2 in Denver for an inspiring weekend of competition, recognition, and making new friends.

Colorado FCCLA is one of 52 state chapters of National Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. FCCLA is a career and technical student organization focusing on family, career preparation, and leadership development.

On Thursday, students attended the Youth Expo, where they spoke with a variety of colleges and exhibitors. That evening, they heard from 2015-2016 Colorado FCCLA President Brooklyn Buhre and keynote speaker Yahya Bakkar, who talked about how members can have impact their communities. “FCCLA had taught me that everyone has a story and it only takes one person to make a difference,” said Holmes student Keatyn Hobson, after hearing from Bakkar.On Friday, Holmes students competed in 40 events covering categories like advocacy, career investigation and entrepreneurship. “My STAR event focused around the Ronald McDonald House and how the organization has changed lives,” said student participant Elizabeth Gumper, who earned a gold medal for her presentation.

Awards were handed out on Saturday. Holmes competitors earned nine gold, eleven silver and four bronze medals. Winners are invited to attend the National Leadership Conference July 3 – 7 in San Diego, Calif.

“FCCLA has given me more positive opportunities than I could ever hope for,” said Holmes student Maile Sufak. “It has strengthened me as student, leader and citizen.”

Gold medal winners are Kayden Albert, Mia Albert, Elizabeth Gumper, Abby Gerber, Keatyn Hobson, Julia Solano, Talia Traxler, Alyiah Romero, and Aidan Maughan. Silvers were earned by Aria Schleiker, Maile Sufak, Ella Sufak, Taylor Husser, Reanna Scherb, Ryan Scherb, Elle Gray, Amanda Seth, Jessa Arra, Leta Graves, and Crystal Waters. Bronze medals were awared to Haiden Hooyboer, Callie Stapleton, Nina Felch, and Taylor Fishel.

“FCCLA has taught me how to step out of my comfort zone and make a difference in my family, school and community,” said Schleiker. “My FCCLA experience has opened my eyes to see what an impact one person can make in their community as a student.”