Greetings IBEA members!

Lacy Bugielski PhotoIt was great seeing everyone at the 61st Annual IBEA Fall Conference in Springfield last month! Over 100 members, presenters, exhibitors, and guests came together for great learning opportunities, collaborating, and networking. We heard from two amazing featured speakers, Eddie Slowikowski and Jennifer Stubblefield, on how necessary it is to get back to the basics and really dive into what motivates us and how we can connect with our students. Many of you shared great things you are doing in your classrooms, and we had great discussions at networking events and roundtables. During the legislative session, Representative Cyril Nichols, 32nd District, joined us via Zoom to share how we can continue to advocate for legislation to benefit our classrooms, and how he is fighting for us in Springfield. Be sure to follow up with your legislator so they know your classroom needs!

It was great to see old friends and make some new ones as we came together for business education! If you were not able to join us, make plans to attend next year’s conference to be held once again at the Abraham Lincoln Springfield - A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel November 6-8, 2024.

As we near the end of 2023 and start 2024 fresh, I encourage you to stay involved in your professional organization. We have a large state with amazing programs and our affiliates help keep us connected in the areas in which we live and teach. Does your affiliate have a spring meeting planned? How can IBEA support you, your affiliate, and your classroom? How can we continue to support each other with new curriculum, CTSOs, and advocating for our area? If you are ready to get more involved and continue the connections and discussions with your colleagues from around the state, please contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or President Elect, Heather Borowiak, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We are ready to support the continued collaboration between affiliates and all IBEA members. We are all in this together!

I hope you enjoy reading through the Post-Conference Recap issue of the IBEA Reports Newsletter to see the highlights of this years IBEA Annual Fall Conference. Mark your calendar for next years conference, November 6-8, 2024! Stay involved, have fun with your students, have a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

Lacy Bugielski
2023-2024 IBEA President