THS students Calkins, Hoff connect with legislators, peers at FCCLA conference

MADISON – Last month, two Tomahawk High School (THS) students had the opportunity to connect with state legislators in Madison during the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)’s Capitol Leadership Conference.

FCCLA is a nationally-recognized, student‑led organization rooted in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education. FCCLA empowers youth with skills in leadership, career development and community engagement. Wisconsin FCCLA provides opportunities for students to develop personal and professional skills while making a positive impact in their schools and communities.

THS seniors Siennah Calkins and Emma Hoff from Tomahawk’s FCCLA chapter attended the conference, which was held at the State Capitol on Thursday, Jan. 22.

Chapter Advisor Allison Ewart said the event brought together youth leaders from across the state for hands-on training in communication, civic engagement and leadership development.

At the conference, Calkins and Hoff had the opportunity to briefly speak with Governor Tony Evers, as well as the staff of State Senators Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk) and Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield) and State Representative Calvin Callahan (R-Tomahawk).

Ewart said students in attendance gained experience in the following areas:

• Professional communication and leadership. Students strengthened their ability to speak confidently, represent their chapter and state with professionalism, and demonstrated leadership in real civic settings.
• Message development. 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 connections with local legislators, gained firsthand experience in legislative connections and learned how to engage respectfully and effectively with public officials.

“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,” Ewart stated. “They plan to bring their new skills back to Tomahawk, continuing their community involvement and promoting FCCLA through upcoming competitions, Tomahawk Showcase Night and the High School FCCLA Blood Drive.”

Calkins said she was able to “express to local legislators how FCCLA has positively impacted me personally, our school and our community.”

Hoff said the experience and knowledge she gained from the conference helped her strengthen her leadership skills and make new connections.

 “The conference made me feel more confident when speaking with adults and sharing why FCCLA matters in my life,” Hoff stated. “I learned that student leaders can make a real difference when we share our stories.”