Capitol Leadership
Take Your Leadership to the Nation’s Capital!
In November 2025, FCCLA brought together 285 students, advisers, and chaperones in Washington, D.C. for an unforgettable experience focused on leadership, advocacy, and government relations. From hands-on training to real conversations with elected officials, this conference empowered members to make their voices heard.
Conference Highlights
Participants took part in a variety of powerful sessions and experiences, including:
- Leadership Training Day with Leadership Trainer Brooklyn Gross
Learned their personal leadership style, discovered how to work with different stakeholders, understand team roles, and built skills to lead with confidence. - Adviser Professional Development
Sessions included Career Cluster integration, FCS advocacy, ACTE advocacy, Chapter fundraising tips, and discussions around Student Body National Program. - Career Cluster Industry Panel
Heard from six professionals—one from each Career Cluster—as they shared their career journeys and offered advice for students exploring future pathways. - Advocacy Training with Former National Officer Josh Sorbe
Students gained tools to speak up for issues they care about and represent FCS and CTE with impact. - Interactive Role-Playing with Leadership Trainer Abigail Bettendorf
Attendees practiced their elevator pitch, strengthened their communication skills, and learned how to effectively advocate to elected leaders. - Tour DC at Night
Attendees got the chance to explore all that DC has to offer with a private night tour. Memorials, monuments, National Mall, and more. - Capitol Hill Photo Opportunities
Chapters, state associations, and individuals captured memorable moments right on Capitol Hill. - Wreath Laying Ceremony
Four National Executive Council members led a private wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery—an honor and highlight of the event. - Meetings with Elected Officials
Students met with their state representatives and congressional staff to share their stories and advocate for Family and Consumer Sciences and Career and Technical Education. - Reflection & Action Planning
Everyone came together to discuss what they learned and how to bring their new skills and experiences back to their schools and communities.
Don’t miss your chance to travel to Washington, D.C., build your leadership, and advocate for Family and Consumer Sciences education at Capitol Leadership 2027!
The next Capitol Leadership will take place in Fall 2027.
Official dates coming soon.
“During Capitol Leadership, I learned how to network, connect, and advocate for CTE and FCCLA. From the leadership trainings to the meetings on the Hill, I learned the importance of knowing how to communicate what is important to me and learned how to use my voice. I also had the opportunity to network with members from around the nation and learned different perspectives.”
— Tessa Kenyon, State Officer, Wyoming
“Capitol Leadership gives you the opportunity to see leadership in action! You are able to explore the Nation’s Capital, while advocating for FCS and FCCLA! The trainings that are offered by Capitol Leadership prepare you not only for your experience on The Hill, but for the future as well!”
— Chandra Davis, Chapter Adviser from Arkansas
"Attending Capitol Leadership helped me grow as a speaker, a listener, and an engaged citizen. I left feeling empowered to make real change."
— Brandon Weibel, 2024-2025 National President