Phi Beta Lambda

What we aren't

Before we go into detail of what PBL is we need to dispel some common misconceptions about our club.
1. We are not a fraternity or related to the greek system in any way
2. We are not selective/competitive entry. (eg. Anyone who wants to join is welcome)
3. We are not just about the competitive events. - Although these compose the biggest events, we encourage our members to get involved in the many other events we put on.

So what exactly is PBL?

In today's highly competitive business environment it takes more than just a business degree to succeed--it requires business savvy, leadership skills, and technical knowledge. That's where Phi Beta Lambda comes in. By taking advantage of the many programs PBL offers, business students acquire the skills that will set them apart from the average business graduate. Members learn through participating in a variety of activities that help them build their skills, while contributing to the improvement of the community in which they live, their school, and their chapter.

What is the mission of PBL?

The mission of PBL is to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs. The specific goals of PBL are to: Develop competent, aggressive business leadership. Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work. Create more interest in and understanding of American business enterprise. Encourage members in the development of individual projects, which contribute to the improvement of home, business, and community. Develop character, prepare for useful citizenship, and foster patriotism. Encourage and practice efficient money management. Encourage scholarship and promote school loyalty. Assist students in the establishment of occupational goals. Facilitate the transition from school to work.

What programs and activities does PBL offer?

PBL members participate in a broad range of projects and ventures both on and off campus. They initiate business ventures, organize community service projects, attend state and national leadership conferences, participate in fundraisers, and create publications. Members gain a competitive advantage in the business world by interacting with local companies and their executives. Students also have the opportunity to win accolades on the state and national levels. Through participation in these activities, students are better prepared for careers, graduate school, and for life.

Tell me more about the conferences

Conference agendas include informative and motivational keynote addresses, career fairs, workshops, competitive events, theme dances, election of officers, and awards recognition. The workshops at the conferences provide business-related and personal educational opportunities, while event competition allows students to gain recognition for their business and leadership knowledge. Conferences are held on the state, regional, and national levels. The end of each membership year is marked by the National Leadership Conference (NLC), which is considered the pinnacle of the PBL experience, especially for those competing nationally and running for office. The Institute for Leaders, an intensive three-day leadership training program, is held in conjunction with the NLC. Participants select leadership tracks to follow, visit on-site industry locations, and network with business leaders and fellow PBL members.

What does PBL offer regarding community service?

PBL is about using teamwork to accomplish common personal and social goals. In keeping with this spirit of cooperation, PBL has formed partnerships with national organizations to provide its membership with a range of exciting and innovative programs and activities. Members gain recognition, financial assistance, and valuable experience through their participation in programs such as the March of Dimes, the National Literacy Project, Investment Challenge, Operation Enterprise, and the PBL Foundation Scholarship program.

Leadership Opportunities

Because PBL is a national organization, students have the opportunity to serve as officers on the local, state, regional, and national levels. Members who aspire to leadership roles gain the experience of running a campaign, going through officer training, and playing an important role in the development of the program of work for the year--not to mention the experience of leading the chapter in its activities and acting as an ambassador for the organization.

Leadership Opportunities

I believe education is the right of every person.

I believe the future depends on mutual understanding and cooperation among business, industry, labor, religious, family and educational institutions, as well as people around the world. I agree to do my utmost to bring about understanding and cooperation among all of these groups.

I believe every person should prepare for a useful occupation and carry on that occupation in a manner that brings the greatest good to the greatest number.

I believe every person should actively work toward improving social, political, community and family life.

I believe every person has the right to earn a living at a useful occupation and that this right should not be denied because of race, color, creed, sex or handicap.

I believe every person should take responsibility for carrying out assigned tasks in a manner that brings credit to self, associates, school and community.

I believe I have the responsibility to work efficiently and to think clearly. I promise to use my abilities to make the world a better place for everyone.



© Copyright 2000-2003, All rights reserved.
Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda, Inc.

Phi Beta Lambda
Eller College of Business & Public Administration
McClelland Hall 204s
P.O. Box 210108
The University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ 85721-0108