Three Renton High School students and one Lindbergh High School student have qualified to compete in the FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) National Leadership Conference in Atlanta June 23–30.

This is the first time in more than 10 years that Renton or Lindbergh has had FBLA students qualify for the national competition, says Eric Hougan, FBLA adviser and business teacher at Renton High.

“Before I came on board, no one can remember the last time someone went to nationals,” he said. Hougan became FBLA advisor four years ago.

But in order to compete in Georgia, the three Renton High students need to raise $2,000 by May 16, and a total of $4,500 by June 16. The students will hold a car wash at Greenfresh Market May 17 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. They also plan candy sales and possibly working concessions at Safeco Field. But they desperately need donations.

The three Renton seniors and Lindbergh freshman have been working on their FBLA projects since the start of the school year. All competed first in the regional and state conferences. The national conference includes competitions as well as leadership workshops.

The Renton students are Terrence Eng, impromptu speaking; Bernard Paraiso, personal finance; Justin Wu, e-commerce. The Lindbergh student is Casey Penk, marketing.

Renton High had 21 students qualify for state, and sent 17. Lindbergh sent nine students. State had nearly 2,000 competitors, Hougan says.

Hougan is excited about the success of the Renton and Lindbergh students. He just hopes enough money is raised to allow the students to compete.

“This is something that the kids have worked on, and they haven’t seen success in over 10 years,” he says. “It’s important for the Renton community overall, and for the future business leaders.”

Send tax-deductible donation to Renton High School’s FBLA to Renton High School c/o FBLA, 400 S. Second St. Renton, WA 98055.