MOUNT VERNON – Nick Murphy, senior in the computer network technology program at Knox County Career Center, finished fourth place in the Network Administration using CISCO competition at the Business Professionals of America (BPA) National Leadership Conference, held April 26-30 in Anaheim, Calif.

Murphy was excited to compete against people from across the country. 

“The experience I had at BPA Nationals was enjoyable. I made sure I had the resources I needed to help me with things that I may not have known,” Murphy said. “Falling short of making the top three was kind of disappointing, but it still felt good to make the top 10. Visiting California was better than I expected. I was a little worried at first, but as soon as we started going places, that uncomfortable feeling quickly went away.”

“I am extremely proud of Nicholas Murphy," Nate Greene, computer network technology instructor, said. "He has been studying and preparing for this competition for several months. He is also currently completing an internship at Ariel Corporation in their IT department.”

The mission of BPA is to develop and empower student leaders to discover their passion and change the world by creating unmatched opportunities in learning, professional growth and service. As a co-curricular organization, BPA has the ability to enhance student participation in professional, civic, service and social endeavors. 

BPA members participate in these activities to accomplish their goals of self-improvement, leadership development, professionalism, community service, career development, public relations, student cooperation, safety and health.