Pella Students Qualify for BPA National Conference

Three Pella students will represent their school at the Business Professionals of America national event.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 11:00pm

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Three students from the Pella, Iowa chapter of Business Professionals of America (BPA) - Elliana Schlerman, Trisin Plants, and Malachi VanHaaften - have qualified to compete at the BPA National Leadership Conference after strong performances at the state-level competition.

Why it matters

Qualifying for the prestigious BPA National Conference is a significant achievement for these Pella students, showcasing their business and leadership skills. The BPA organization provides valuable real-world experience for high school students interested in business, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

The details

The three Pella BPA members earned their spots at nationals by placing highly in various individual and team events at the state competition, including business presentations, financial analysis, and digital marketing. They will now have the opportunity to compete against the top BPA students from across the country.

  • The Pella BPA chapter members qualified for nationals in March 2026.
  • The BPA National Leadership Conference will take place in May 2026.

The players

Elliana Schlerman

A student at Pella High School and member of the school's Business Professionals of America chapter.

Trisin Plants

A student at Pella High School and member of the school's Business Professionals of America chapter.

Malachi VanHaaften

A student at Pella High School and member of the school's Business Professionals of America chapter.

Business Professionals of America (BPA)

A national student organization that provides business and leadership development opportunities for high school and college students.

Pella High School

The high school in Pella, Iowa where the qualifying BPA students are enrolled.

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What they’re saying

“Qualifying for nationals is such an honor and a testament to the hard work our BPA chapter has put in this year.”

— Elliana Schlerman, Pella High School BPA Member

“We're excited to represent our school and community at the national conference and show what Pella students can do.”

— Trisin Plants, Pella High School BPA Member

What’s next

The three Pella BPA members will travel to the BPA National Leadership Conference in May 2026 to compete against other top students from across the country.

The takeaway

The success of the Pella BPA chapter demonstrates the value of extracurricular programs that provide real-world business and leadership experience for high school students. These opportunities help prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs and industry leaders.