Emerald Harrington from North Ridgeville

November 2, 2009 -- Emerald Harrington, a senior in the JVS Web & Graphic Design Program from North Ridgeville, will be running for state office for the Business Professionals of America, a national Career-Technical Student Organization.

"When I found out that I was eligible to screen for BPA state officer I was ecstatic. I immediately jumped on the opportunity to participate in something that was so involved with the BPA network," commented Harrington.

In October the students spent the day in Columbus participating in the screening process.

"The procedure to screen for state office is very grueling," stated Tina Krosse, Web & Graphic Design Lab Instructor. "The students must have a good GPA, be a proven leader locally and regionally, and have the recommendation of their advisor."

"In Columbus I was interviewed by two BPA officials, presented my career portfolio and gave a speech as to why I wanted to become a BPA officer," stated Harrington.

Approximately 90 students will vie for the 12 campaign positions. Out of 12 who campaign, the six students who receive the most votes will become officers for the next year. Each of the students must take a knowledge test, prepare and present a speech, and interview with two adults and one current officer.

"Emerald came into her senior year with the goal to become a state officer and she is really working hard to make this a reality," commented Krosse.

Emerald will campaign at the Business Professional's Fall Leadership Conference in Columbus, where she will get the opportunity to speak to over 1,000 students about her plans for the coming year. After the campaign rally, the students will address a packed auditorium at the Veteran's Memorial in Columbus. Each candidate will give a speech and answer questions about the Business Professionals of America Organization and their plans for 2009-2010.

In addition, because Emerald ranked in the top 3rd of those screening for the state officer positions, she is now eligible to screen for a national officer position.