NHPS' Engineering and Science University Magent School Student Elected 2026–2027 CT FBLA State President

From New Haven Public Schools:

NEW HAVEN, CT—Sahithi Aliminate, a junior at the Engineering and Science University Magnet School, has been elected as the 2026–2027 Connecticut state president of the Future Business Leaders of America, the state's premier student business and technology organization.

In this role, she will represent thousands of students, overseeing state-wide initiatives and shaping the future of business and technology education and professional development for the next generation of Connecticut leaders.

The FBLA is the largest business and technology career and technical student organization in the world, dedicated to preparing students for careers in business, digital technology, arts, entertainment, design and many more through academic competitions, leadership development, and educational programs.

Sahithi also earned the prestigious Business Achievement Award—a national program requiring hundreds of hours of dedicated service, business education, and community advocacy. Her dedication was further recognized with the Who’s Who Award for Connecticut, a distinction reserved for the most exemplary members in the state who have made outstanding contributions to the organization at the local and state levels.

This year, as a member of the Connecticut State FBLA Student Council, Sahithi helped to integrate the middle level chapter into the state conference for the first time for ESUMS. She led an extensive outreach campaign, which secured a significant volume of gift card donations from businesses throughout the county, directly benefiting FBLA initiatives and raising the organization’s profile.

At ESUMS, where she has served as vice president of the FBLA chapter, Sahithi is celebrated for her vision and character. "Sahithi’s elevation to state president is a testament to her vision and relentless work ethic," said Dr. Medria Blue-Ellis, principal of ESUMS. "She embodies the spirit of our school, combining academic excellence with a commitment to uplifting her community. We are incredibly proud to have her representing ESUMS on the state and national stage."

Lakesha Kirkland, Sahithi's FBLA advisor, said, "What truly sets Sahithi apart is her innate drive for teaching other students leadership and her genuine passion for helping others succeed. She believes that leadership is a skill to be shared, and she has worked tirelessly to ensure her fellow students have the tools to lead with confidence. She became an informal mentor to many of the younger members, patiently guiding them through complex business concepts and competition preparations, which significantly helped elevate the overall performance and morale of the entire ESUMS FBLA chapter. It has been my honor to watch her grow and work with her over these past three years."