Cambria Heights students place in national FCCLA
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PATTON -- Michaela Wallen, Nathan Mislevy and Genevieve Snyder of the Cambria Heights Chapter of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America earned national recognition by placing among the top 10 in the nation at the 2026 FCCLA National Leadership Conference, held July 6-10 in Washington, D.C.
Michaela Wallen competed in Focus on Children Level 2 and earned second place and gold medal recognition. The event challenged participants to design an activity that builds a child development concept.
Nathan Mislevy (partner Jaxon Queen unable to attend) competed in Hospitality, Tourism and Recreation Level 2 and earned fourth place and gold medal recognition. The event challenged participants to develop an activity or event within their community to promote tourism in their region.
Genevieve Snyder (partner Hailey Patno unable to attend) competed in National Programs Level 2 and earned 10th place and silver medal recognition. The event challenged participants to develop an activity to build financial fitness skills.
Reagan Conner and Kayden Lute also participated in FCCLA Competitive Events. Reagan earned gold medal recognition for her Teach or Train STAR project. Kayden Lute earned silver medal recognition for his Food Innovations STAR project.
STAR Events, which stands for Students Taking Action with Recognition, allow FCCLA members to apply the knowledge and skills they develop through Family and Consumer Sciences education to real-world projects, presentations and career-related challenges. Participants advance through local and state competition before earning the opportunity to compete at the national level.
Reagan Conner currently serves as the Pennsylvania FCCLA state president. Ellie Kerfonta currently serves as a Pennsylvania State Officer and made top 20 as a National Officer candidate. Both students attended leadership training, networking sessions and represented the state at meetings and activities.
The FCCLA National Leadership Conference brings students and educators together for competitive events, leadership development, career exploration, educational workshops and national recognition. The 2026 conference was especially historic because it was held in Washington, D.C., during the America 250 celebrations.
"Hosting the 2026 National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., during the America 250 celebrations created a powerful and historic opportunity for FCCLA Members," said Sandy Spavone, CEO of FCCLA. "These students are building the skills, confidence, and connections to make an impact in their schools, careers, families, communities, and country right now."