FCCLA Members Attend State Peer Education Conference in Kearney
Launch the media gallery 1 playerKearney, Neb. — A total of 285 students and advisers representing 45 chapters from across Nebraska gathered in Kearney on February 23, 2026, for the 2026 State Peer Education Conference. The conference theme, “Grow Bold, Live Gold,” highlighted student leadership, service, and personal growth through peer education.
This year, the State Peer Officer Teams are focusing on the national program areas of Families First and Student Body, encouraging chapters to strengthen family relationships and promote healthy lifestyles within their schools and communities.
During the conference, candidates for the 2026–2027 State Peer Officer Teams were introduced. Candidates for the Family Leader Team include: Mya Beland, Ord; EveLynn Schroeder, Cozad; Katelyn Uldrich, Hartington Newcastle; Laretta Davis, Central Valley; Tenleigh Roberts, Overton. Career Leader Team candidates include: Evelyn Sanchez, West Point Beemer; Rhys Baxa, Palmyra; Taelyn Baumert, Clarkson; Amelia Walgren, Centennial; Jordyn DeNaeyer, Thedford. Community Leader Team candidates include: Trevin Jahde, David City; Emily Larsen, O’Neill; Devynn Vela, Palmyra; Allison Huesers, Hartington Newcastle; Neala McCall, Overton; Maci Walz, Mullen; Margaret Rowland, Milford.
Chapters also participated in the Capture the Action awards, which recognize outstanding projects aligned with the Families First and Student Body national programs. The top three chapters in each category were honored for their efforts.
For the Family Leader Team awards:
- 3rd Place — Battle Creek Public Schools
- 2nd Place — O’Neill Public Schools
- 1st Place — Fillmore Central Public Schools
For the Community Leader Team awards:
- 3rd Place — Battle Creek Public Schools
- 2nd Place — Leigh Community Schools
- 1st Place — Boyd County Schools
Mayte Flores Garcia from the Wakefield Chapter was selected as the recipient of the 2026 SPOT Scholarship.
The conference featured several educational sessions and guest speakers. The keynote speaker, Trooper Tim Flick of the Nebraska State Patrol addressed the topic of human trafficking, sharing valuable information about awareness, prevention, and response. In a breakout session, Trooper Flick further discussed how to respectfully support and interact with survivors without re-traumatizing them.
Additional breakout sessions included a presentation by Team Nutrition on the nutritional value and versatility of dry beans as part of healthy eating initiatives. Hannah Mayo of Creighton, Nebraska, presented on coping skills for teens, providing practical strategies students can use to manage stress and navigate challenging situations.
Attending from the Leigh chapter were Elizabeth Hoffman, Ava Kasik, Jocelyn Donnelly, Vylet Hollatz, Ella Higby, Madi Freudenburg, Emersyn Urban, and Halle Korth.
The State Peer Education Conference continues to provide Nebraska students with meaningful opportunities to develop leadership skills, promote wellness, and make a positive impact in their schools and communities through Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).