Inaugural Address by President Phillip R. Horsley

Speech | April 14th, 2025

Advisor Ms. Foster, Principal Westbrook, Vice President Lewis, Madam Secretary Wartz, Former Madam Vice President Medley, distinguished guests, and my fellow BPA Members!

Today marks an incredible day, a milestone in history. As I stand before you, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility. I want to first start off by thanking all my officers for their service and dedication to this organization. It is an honor to be elected to this role as your 37th President of this remarkable organization, one that has a rich history of excellence and a legacy of shaping young minds for generations.

As we gather here today, we honor the legacy of Gary Largent, the visionary educator who brought the Business Professionals of America to Kirtland Central High School in 1989. Her passion for teaching and dedication to our organization shines brightly until her passing in 1992, leaving an enduring mark on all who had the privilege of learning from her. Gary Largent’s commitment to excellence and service serves as a guiding light for us all as we continue to uphold the values she instilled in our BPA chapter.

As we look back on the milestones and achievements of the past, let us also cast our gaze toward the future. The road ahead is filled with promise and potential, waiting for us to seize the opportunities that lie before us. We stand on the cusp of a new era, one defined by innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision of success.

In history, let it be written that the Business Professionals of America at Kirtland Central High School rose to meet the challenges of their time with courage and determination. Let it be known that we stood shoulder to shoulder, united in purpose and driven by a common goal: to make a difference, to leave a legacy, and to inspire those who come after us.

As I take on the mantle of leadership, I do so with a deep sense of respect for those who have come before me and profound respect for the journey that lies ahead. I pledge to lead with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the values that define our organization.

Together, we will write the next chapter in the storied history of the Business Professionals of America at Kirtland Central High School. Together, we will forge a path toward a future filled with promise and possibility. Together, we will get the job done!

When I first joined BPA, I never imagined how much it would shape my life and future. From serving as Parliamentarian to Vice President and now President, I have grown as a leader, a team player, and an individual. BPA is not just a club to me—it’s an opportunity, a community, and a platform to inspire change.

As your President, my vision is clear. First and foremost, I want to honor and build on the incredible legacy of KCHS BPA, which has been fostering student success since 1989. I aim to create new opportunities for our members to engage, learn, and excel.

I am also committed to equipping both students and adults in our community with the knowledge of what BPA offers. By raising awareness about our chapter’s transformative potential, I hope to encourage greater participation and inspire more leaders to step forward.

Leadership is at the core of what BPA stands for, and I want every member to see their leadership potential. I plan to create workshops, mentorship programs, and activities designed to cultivate confidence, responsibility, and teamwork in all of us.

Additionally, I believe our chapter’s success lies in the strength of our connections. As President, I will work to strengthen relationships with local businesses and our talented alumni. By building these bridges, we can provide more real-world opportunities, mentorship, and professional development for our members.

Fellow BPA members, the future is ours to shape. Let us rise to the occasion, embrace the challenges before us, and make history together. Thank you, Rodzaiah Curtis, for everything you have done for this organization. From the website you have for the chapter and for my campaign and answering my 20 billion questions, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you, Caleb, for being the friend everyone needs. From our late-night working and gaming sessions to our fun messing around when we are together, thank you. Thank you, Emily, for teaching me how to take photos. I'm like a professional photographer now. And lastly, thank you, Ms. Foster. As someone would say, my second mom. You are always here for someone when someone needs to talk to you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Thank you all for your support of me.