During this year's Collegiate DECA ICDC in San Francisco, members elected the leaders who will serve during the 2025-2026 school year. As they gear up for an exciting year ahead, take a moment to learn more about the faces behind the blazers and the stories that brought them here.
Read on to learn about the 2025-2026 Collegiate DECA Executive Officer Team!
How did you first get involved in DECA?
Shrey: I’ve always had a strong interest in the business world. During my first business class in high school, my teacher (who also happened to be the DECA advisor) encouraged me to attend the first DECA meeting. At the time, I figured the free cookie would at least make the visit worthwhile. Little did I know that a single cookie would lead to one of the most rewarding decisions of my life.
PB: I first became involved with DECA to earn extra credit for my high school marketing class. I never knew just how impactful that small decision would be.
Peighton: I joined DECA during my freshman year of high school. My mom had been a founding chapter officer at the same school I was attending and encouraged me to join.
Tucker: I first got involved in DECA after being inspired by a social media post I saw as a high school sophomore. It featured a student from a nearby technology center who had become a state officer, won first place at the state CDC and attended ICDC. I remember thinking, “I want to do that someday.” I wasn’t eligible to join DECA at the time, but I kept that dream in mind. Two years later, I enrolled in the Business and Marketing program at my local technology center, and that’s when I officially became a DECA member.
Who's someone in your DECA journey who's inspired or motivated you?
Shrey: Building a strong foundation has always been important to me. Without my incredible start in DECA during my freshman year of high school, I’m not sure where I’d be today. That’s why I’m especially grateful to Ms. Hales, my freshman year DECA advisor, for always being a dependable resource, encouraging me to become a finalist and supporting me through my campaigns for state and international office. I’m also grateful to Ms. Schieffer, my finance teacher and later DECA advisor, for her consistent mentorship and guidance. Both of them have believed in me from the start and have been guiding hands throughout my DECA journey. I’m truly grateful for their support.
PB: Leslie Crider, the Missouri Collegiate DECA Advisor, really helped me grow as a professional and become the leader I am today.
Peighton: I’ve met many people throughout my six years in DECA, but my friend, Grace, and my high school advisor, Mrs. Inselman, have played a large role in my DECA journey. Grace encouraged me to go to my first ICDC and was always down to experience new opportunities with me. Mrs. Inselman would always do anything she could for her members, which inspired me throughout my various leadership positions in DECA. They both inspired me to push myself for new opportunities and help in any way I can.
Tucker: My advisor, Mrs. McDowell, has inspired me throughout my DECA journey. From the very beginning, she believed in me, even when I didn’t fully believe in myself. She’s pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, take on leadership roles, and give every opportunity my best effort. Her constant support, encouragement and dedication to her students have impacted me as a DECA member and a person.
What's your go-to caffeine order before a DECA event?
Shrey: I usually stay caffeine-free, but if I ever want caffeine, it would be a chai latte.
PB: Baja Blast.
Peighton: Iced latte with oatmilk and vanilla!!!
Tucker: McDonald’s Caramel Frappe.
How has DECA influenced your goals for the future?
Shrey: DECA has helped me affirm what I already knew – I’m passionate about business, entrepreneurship and solving the problems of tomorrow. Through my experiences in DECA, I’ve developed the soft and technical skills needed to succeed. I’ve grown as a leader, become confident as a public speaker and constantly desire to help others on their road to success.
PB: DECA has made me realize I want to pursue a career in business and has gotten me multiple steps closer to achieving my dream. I’d love to lead a company someday, and DECA helped me realize that and has equipped me with many skills to get closer to that.
Peighton: When I initially joined DECA, I had no clue what I would do in the future. DECA allowed me to network with fellow members and business professionals, who would help me discover what I wanted to do in the future. My advisor played a specific role in helping me find my career pathway by helping me connect my passions with the industry. She knew I had a passion for helping others and helped me apply for a job in the hospitality industry, which I fell in love with.
Tucker: DECA has had a huge impact on my goals for the future. Before joining, I knew I was interested in business, but didn’t have a clear direction. I discovered my passion for marketing, leadership and entrepreneurship through DECA. The hands-on experiences, competitions and networking opportunities have given me the confidence to pursue a career in business and continue growing as a leader. DECA didn’t just shape my goals—it helped me believe I can achieve them.
If your DECA experience were a movie, what would the title be?
Shrey: The Unforgettable Climb.
PB: The Final Round.
Peighton: The Ripple Effect.
Tucker: Driven to Lead.
What's your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
Shrey: Watching a movie or spending time with friends and family is my go-to way to unwind. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge without stress, just meaningful time with the people I love.
PB: I call my friends and family, then play some games later in the night. A good shower always does wonders, too!
Peighton: I unwind by going out with friends and trying food at new restaurants. I also like to unwind by going grocery shopping.
Tucker: My favorite way to unwind after a busy week is to watch a good movie or binge-watch a TV series.
How do you think Gen Z will change the future of business?
Shrey: Gen Z is full of curiosity and empowered by technology. Our generation will redefine business by making it more efficient, profitable and passive. With bold new perspectives and with the advance of AI, Gen Z is positioned to lead with innovation unlike any other generation.
PB: I can only wait to see, but our perspective will be valuable. I’m confident that we will bring a lot to the future, but these developments are still occurring, so it’s worth paying attention to.
Peighton: Gen Z will bring new viewpoints to the business world and continue strengthening the ideals of a work-life balance. Our generation has been focused on recognizing our value to a business and isn’t afraid to say what they’re worth, giving employees more say in their future.
Tucker: Gen Z will change the future of business by bringing fresh perspectives, creativity and a strong focus on social responsibility. They value diversity, sustainability and technology-driven solutions, which will push companies to be more ethical and innovative. Gen Z’s ability to adapt quickly and their passion for making a positive impact will make businesses more inclusive, transparent and forward-thinking.
If you could start a business or nonprofit, what would it be?
Shrey: During my time at Rice, I’ve worked on several startups, with my latest being a platform aimed at helping high school students explore potential career paths. As a Rice Admissions Interviewer, I’ve seen firsthand how many students are unsure of what they want to pursue in college—and even more so, after graduation. My goal is to create a resource that connects students with professionals and their stories so they can better understand what is ahead.
PB: I’d love to run my own law firm someday. Eventually, I’d like to specialize in pro-bono casework in the non-profit sector.
Peighton: I would start a nonprofit that allows high school and college students to take advantage of opportunities offered through Career and Technical Student Organizations. Many public schools aren’t able to assist in funding, so students don’t get to take part in these life-changing opportunities.
Tucker: If I could start a nonprofit, it would provide travel grants and financial support for Local CTSOs with limited funding. This would help ensure that all students, regardless of their financial situation, have the opportunity to attend leadership conferences, competitions and other important events that help them grow and succeed.
What's one thing you want to check off your bucket list?
Shrey: I’d love to visit every continent (even Antarctica) and explore as many countries as possible. Traveling is one of the best ways to learn and appreciate other cultures, and I look forward to making that dream a reality throughout my career.
PB: Visit somewhere outside the US for the first time! I’ve never been out of the country.
Peighton: I really want to study abroad.
Tucker: One thing I want to check off my bucket list is jumping out of an airplane.
What's a fictional world you wish you could live in?
Shrey: Pandora, from Avatar.
PB: The Pokémon world. I’d pick Oshawott as my starter.
Peighton: Halloweentown from The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Tucker: The Star Wars universe.
