Eastview High School’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter—the largest in Minnesota—celebrated an outstanding year of achievements at the 2025 FCCLA National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida. More than 15 Eastview students qualified at the state level to compete nationally, with many earning scholarships, medals, and stage recognition.
This year’s celebration was made even more special as Eastview’s advisor, Mia Battistone, was honored as the 2025 National Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher of the Year and the Minnesota FCS Teacher of the Year. She also serves as President of the Minnesota Association of FCS Teachers and was a 2024 FCCLA National Adviser finalist.
“We are very proud to be the largest chapter in Minnesota, consistently recognized for our service, projects, and national awards,” Battistone shared. “It’s a privilege to advise these outstanding student leaders and watch them grow through competition, service, and teamwork.”
Student highlights include:
Himani Mondal – Awarded the prestigious FCCLA Memorial Scholarship, recognized on stage in the national “Say Yes to FCS” ceremony for her commitment to becoming a Family and Consumer Sciences educator; 1st place in the FCCLA Knowledge Challenge Test; 3rd place in #TeachFCS Skills; 8th place in the Teaching Challenge; and a Silver Medal, Top 10 nationally, for the Eastview Chapter Website project.
Abby Ward – Selected to showcase her original garment on the National Fashion Show runway and awarded a Silver Medal in Fashion Construction.
Amy Nguyen – 3rd place nationally in the Principles of Food Science Challenge Test.
Emily Ward & Aabha Katti – Bronze Medal in Fashion Design for their original clothing line inspired by historic feminist and fashion movements.
Students described Nationals as both exciting and transformative. “One of the highlights was being on stage for the ‘Say Yes to FCS’ signing ceremony and committing to a career in FCS education. It was such an exciting and meaningful moment,” said Himani Mondal, FCCLA Memorial Scholarship Recipient and incoming Iowa State University student.
“FCCLA gave me the chance to lead, create, and work as a team — skills I know I’ll use for the rest of my life.”— Emily Ward, Student, Civil Engineering, Iowa State University
For younger students considering joining, the message was clear: don’t be afraid to jump in. “FCCLA is such a valuable experience because it helps you explore your interests and learn how to work with others,” Emily added. “Even if a STAR Event feels overwhelming at first, with support it becomes one of the best learning opportunities you’ll have.”
“My biggest advice is to network, go out and talk to people. Even if it feels a little weird, you’ll make so many connections with both students and adults. That’s one of the best parts of FCCLA.”— Himani Mondal, FCCLA Memorial Scholarship Recipient
Eastview’s FCCLA chapter continues to make an impact by leading community service projects and providing students with opportunities to grow as leaders. Battistone said, “FCCLA gives our students the chance to develop skills, serve others, and be recognized on the state and national stage. I am so proud of their accomplishments.”