Membership in vocational student organizations is encouraged for individuals enrolled in vocational education programs which engage in activities as an integral part of the instructional program. The vocational student organization for Business Education at the secondary level is the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). In addition to FBLA for high school students (grades 9-12), there are three other divisions: FBLA-Middle Level for junior high and intermediate school students (grades 5-8); PBL (Phi Beta Lambda) for postsecondary students; and a Professional division for business people, educators, and parents who support the goals of the association.

FBLA-PBL Goals

1. Develop competent, aggressive business leadership.

2. Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work.

3. Create more interest in and understanding of American business enterprise.

4. Encourage members in the development of individual projects which contribute to the improvement of home, business, and community.

5. Develop character, prepare for useful citizenship, and foster patriotism.

6. Encourage and practice efficient money management.

7. Encourage scholarship and promote school loyalty.

8. Assist students in the establishment of occupational goals.

9. Facilitate the transition from school to work.

FBLA-PBL Mission Statement

Our mission is to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs.

FBLA-PBL Creed

I believe education is the right of every person.

I believe the future depends on mutual understanding and cooperation among business, industry, labor, religious, family, and educational institutions, as well as people around the world.  I agree to do my utmost to bring about understanding and cooperation among all of these groups.

I believe every person should prepare for a useful occupation and carry on that occupation in a manner that brings the greatest good to the greatest number.

I believe every person should actively work toward improving social, political, community, and family life.

I believe every person has the right to earn a living at a useful occupation.

I believe every person should take responsibility for carrying out assigned tasks in a manner that brings credit to self, associates, school, and community.

I believe I have the responsibility to work efficiently and to think clearly.  I promise to use my abilities to make the world a better place for everyone.

FBLA-PBL Pledge

I solemnly promise to uphold the aims and responsibilities of Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda and, as an active member, I shall strive to develop the qualities necessary in becoming a responsible business leader.

FBLA-PBL Code of Ethics

I will be honest and sincere.

I will approach each task with confidence in my ability to perform my work at a high standard.

I will willingly accept responsibilities and duties.

I will seek to profit from my mistakes and take suggestions and criticisms directed toward the improvement of myself and my work.

I will abide by the rules and regulations of my school.

I will exercise initiative and responsibility and will cooperate with my employer and fellow workers.

I will dress and act in a manner that will bring respect to me and to my school.

I will seek to improve my community by contributing my efforts and my resources to worthwhile projects.

Louisiana FBLA-PBL Facts

Louisiana’s first chapter of FBLA was organized at Natchitoches High School in 1947. In 1949 the representatives of the three organized chapters in the state met with Richard D. Clanton to form the Louisiana State Chapter. Mr. Clanton, adviser at Bolton High School, was elected State Adviser, and work began on a state constitution. In 1950, the State Chapter, with 13 chapters chartered, adopted the constitution.

Membership increased and Louisiana led the nation in the number of local chapters in attendance at the National Leadership Conference. Jeron LaFargue from Sulphur High served as the first national president of FBLA in 1952-53. Since then five other Louisianans have served as FBLA national president.

Currently, Louisiana is divided into seven districts, each with an elected vice president.  The state chapter is governed by the state executive council composed of student officers: a president, the vice presidents from each district, a secretary, a treasurer, a reporter, and a parliamentarian. Local chapter advisers of the officers serve as ex-officio members of the council with the State Chair. There are over nine thousand members in 252 active chapters of FBLA in Louisiana.

Future Business Leaders of America programs are designed to encourage students to set career goals, develop self-confidence, learn about the problems and opportunities inherent in American business, and gain actual business experience during their school years. Through involvement in school and community, members learn the importance of developing their abilities to the fullest and build the confidence necessary to realize their potential. Students continuing their education at the university level should consider becoming involved with the postsecondary division, Phi Beta Lambda (PBL). Students who continue their education in the Louisiana Technical College System should consider membership in Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) or Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA).