Northeastern State University students take national stage at 2026 AIBL Conference in Las Vegas

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Two Northeastern State University (NSU) students have been selected from a competitive national pool to serve in official leadership roles at the upcoming American Indigenous Business Leaders (AIBL) National Business & Leadership Student Conference.

The conference, which brings together Indigenous students and professionals from across the country, will take place on March 23 and 24, 2026, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Out of multiple applications nationwide, only 15 students were chosen for these prestigious leadership positions. The selection process began in the fall, requiring students to submit detailed applications followed by a phone interview.

The Northeastern scholars selected to help facilitate this year’s conference are:

• Hannah Neugin, Lost City, OK - selected as Event Assistant
• Colton Brinsfield, Checotah, OK - selected as Audio Visual Assistant

In recognition of their selection and service, both students received a full waiver of their conference registration fees.

Neugin said involvement with the organization has provided valuable opportunities for professional growth and community connection.

"It is important to be involved in an organization like the American Indigenous Business Leaders because representation for Indigenous people in the corporate and business world is scarce," Neugin said. "AIBL helps build our public speaking skills, provides career-ready opportunities, and supplies financial literacy resources. I enjoy being surrounded by like-minded individuals who are passionate about developing their skills for the future."

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the students’ selection highlights the university’s commitment to supporting Indigenous leadership and professional development.

“Opportunities like the AIBL conference allow our students to showcase the talent, leadership and resilience that define our university community,” Hanley said. “Hannah and Colton earning leadership roles on a national stage reflects both their dedication and the strength of the programs that support Indigenous student success at NSU.”

Neugin and Brinsfield will be joined by eight additional NSU students and a student organization advisor.

While in Las Vegas, the students will participate in several competitions designed to test their real-world business skills, including:

• Business Plan & Entrepreneur Pitches
• Elevator Pitch Competition
• Chapter of the Year Presentation
• Financial Literacy Challenge

Through leadership roles and competition participation, NSU students gain valuable experience in presentation, organization and project management, skills that extend well beyond the traditional classroom setting.

To learn more about Northeastern State University, visit Go2NSU.com. For more information about the Center for Tribal Studies at NSU, visit nsuok.edu/cts.

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