(Clarksdale, Mississippi) – Coahoma Community College is proud to recognize Business
Office Technology student Karmese Leflore for representing Mississippi at the National
Collegiate Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Conference held May 31 – June
2, 2025, and Competition, at the Dallas Sheraton Hotel in Dallas, Texas. The national
conference brought together hundreds of ambitious college students from across the
United States, all aspiring to grow their business skills and leadership abilities.
Leflore earned her spot on the national stage by excelling at the state-level FBLA competition earlier this year, where she placed third in the category of Business Communication. Only the top three finishers at the state level advance to compete nationally, a milestone Leflore reached through dedication and hard work in her program.
While she did not place at the national competition this year, Leflore says the experience was invaluable. “Being able to network with students from across the country who share similar goals was an amazing opportunity,” she shared. “I made connections with future business leaders from different states, learned from their experiences, and gained insight that will help me grow both academically and professionally.”
Leflore, who is scheduled to graduate in May 2026 with an Associate of Applied Science
degree in Administrative Office Technology, has become known among her instructors
as a model student with a strong work ethic. Her dedication to her studies and extracurricular
involvement reflects the mission of Coahoma Community College to develop well-rounded
graduates who are prepared to succeed beyond the classroom.
“Karmese is a shining example of what hard work and determination can achieve,” said Kimberly Hollins, FBLA Advisor. “She not only represented Coahoma Community College with pride but also demonstrated the type of leadership and commitment to excellence that FBLA encourages in its members.”
Looking ahead, Leflore plans to continue her involvement with FBLA. Her goal is to compete once again at the state level in 2026, with hopes of advancing and placing at the next national conference, which will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada.
FBLA, Inc., the largest business Career and Technical Student Organization in the world, serves over 230,000 members each year. The mission is to inspire and prepare students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences. FBLA’s conferences and competitions, like the one in Dallas, provide students with opportunities to sharpen their skills, gain recognition, and build professional networks that can lead to future career opportunities.