Orr to Represent FCCLA Officers on DC trip

Article Published By: The Sun Times
Publication Date: November 5, 2025

Ten of the nation’s top student leaders from Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) will travel to Washington, D.C., from Nov. 15-19 to represent more than 250,000 members nationwide at Capitol Leadership, a premier leadership and advocacy conference that empowers youth to explore civic engagement and workforce readiness.

Eva Orr, a student from Heber Springs High School in Heber Springs will represent Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) at Capitol Leadership in Washington, D.C., from Nov. 15-19.

The event will unite more than 180 of the nation’s top youth leaders for an immersive week of advocacy, civic engagement and leadership development.

Through hands-on training, expert-led workshops and networking with national education and policy leaders, participants will explore how government decisions impact families and communities while building the confidence, communication and leadership skills essential for success in college, careers and life.

“As we gather in Washington, D.C., for Capitol Leadership, I’m inspired by the professionalism and poise our members bring to every conversation. Their leadership today is shaping the policies that will strengthen America’s workforce tomorrow,” Sandy Spavone, FCCLA CEO, said.

Orr currently serves as one of 10 students elected by their peers to the FCCLA National Executive Council. As the FCCLA National President, she serves in one of the highest leadership positions available to an active member.

As part of this leadership role, Orr represents and serves as the youth voice for FCCLA’s more than 250,000 student members nationwide, supporting the organization’s mission of preparing youth for careers that support families through leadership, service and advocacy.

During Capitol Leadership, Orr – alongside fellow National Officers and attendees – will:

  • Participate in advocacy and public policy training led by government relations professionals and national education advocates.
  • Engage in leadership development sessions focused on communication, collaboration, and civic engagement.
  • Collaborate with peers from across the nation to develop ideas that drive positive change in their schools and communities.
  • Explore Washington, D.C., while gaining a deeper understanding of public service and civic responsibility.

Orr will return home equipped to put these lessons into action – leading with greater purpose, amplifying the voices of youth in their community and continuing to advance FCCLA’s mission to inspire future leaders in families, careers and communities.

The 2025-2026 National Executive Council includes:

  • President Eva Orr of Heber Springs.
  • Vice President of Public Relations Logan Guynn of Pine Bluff.
  • First Vice President Joey Miller of Stanley, Virginia.
  • Vice President of Community Service Emma Pitman of Braselton, Georgia.
  • Vice President of Competitive Events Tennyson Elrod-Spears of Wright City, Oklahoma.
  • Vice President of Development Kendall Slaughter of Coxs Creek, Kentucky.
  • Vice President of Finance Madison Goodwin of Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
  • Vice President of Membership Lauren McBurney of Joseph, Oregon.
  • Vice President of Parliamentary Law Macalie Hoffmann of Tionesta, Pennsylvania.
  • Vice President of Programs Sutton Sherrard of Frankfort, Kentucky.

About FCCLA

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a national, student-led organization with more than 250,000 members in over 5,400 chapters across the United States. Founded in 1945 and grounded in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education, FCCLA prepares youth for careers that support families through leadership, service, and career development.

For more information, visit www.fcclainc.org.

Members develop skills for life through: character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.