Kewaunee attends FCCLA 2026 Capitol Leadership Conference

KEWAUNEE – Students from Kewaunee High School participated in the Wisconsin FCCLA Capitol Leadership Conference in Madison, Wis., held on Jan. 22. The event brought together youth leaders from across the state for hands-on training in communication, civic engagement and leadership development.

The KHS FCCLA members in attendance included junior and Chapter Secretary Laila Barta, senior and Chapter President Kyenna VanLanen and FCCLA Chapter Adviser Jackie Pionek.
During the leadership conference, students gained experience in:

• Professional communication and leadership: Students strengthened their ability to speak confidently, represent their state and chapter with professionalism and demonstrated leadership in real civic settings.

• Message development skills: Participants learned how to craft clear, compelling messages by developing personal impact stories and understanding how to communicate Wisconsin FCCLA’s value and community impact to decision-makers.

• Civic engagement and relationship building: Students built meaningful connection with local legislators, gaining firsthand experience in legislative connection and learned how to engage respectfully and effectively with public officials.

“This experience helped me feel more confident speaking with adults and sharing how FCCLA has impacted my life,” Laila Barta said.

“I learned that as a student leader, my voice matters and I play a pivotal role in the future of education,” Kyanna VanLanen said.

In addition to their work, students participated in leadership workshops, connected with peers from across Wisconsin and learned how Wisconsin FCCLA strengthens communities through service, career readiness and Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education.