Spotlights
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How your DECA Judge Thinks like a Shark Tank Investor
DECA judges use mental shortcuts just like investors. Learn how to craft your pitch to match their mindset and make your project more memorable.

From FOMO to Finalist: How to Bounce Back After ICDC
Competing in DECA is an opportunity that shapes young business leaders in a multitude of ways. So whether you placed this year or not, your DECA journey is far from over. Set the precedent for a new year, one filled with growth, confidence and achievement.

Crucial Content: The Value of a Strong Social Media Presence
With CTE month here again, advocacy is at the forefront of many DECA members’ minds. February’s advocacy activities are undoubtedly positive, but advocacy should be prioritized all year, and perhaps the easiest way to do so is to have a strong social media presence on a chapter level.

Misconceptions: Human Resource Management
When I tell people I compete in Human Resource Management, they often think of employee conflict. While this is partially true, its not the only part. Understanding HRM involves holistically running successful businesses, not just solving trivial workplace problems.

Building a Legacy: How Weston DECA is Making an Impact
Every DECA chapter starts somewhere, and in Weston, Connecticut, our journey began with a simple idea—that even a small group of students can make a big impact.

You've Qualified for State CDC! But Now What?
Qualifying for DECA state is a big accomplishment that shows your hard work and dedication. While the excitement of qualifying is great, staying focused is key to success at the next level. Here are some beginner-friendly tips for #BeTheOne at State CDC this year!

Pitching for Entrepreneurship: Green Oaks DECA Takes the Stage
Green Oaks DECA recently participated in a unique "Giant Pitch for Entrepreneurship" class, where they learned the art of crafting compelling business pitches and presenting their innovative ideas to a panel of esteemed judges.

Mindset Matters: Strategies to Stay Resilient During Life's Challenges
Whether it’s challenges in school, competition setbacks, or personal struggles, adversity is part of the journey. How we respond to those moments defines us. Here are strategies to help you stay positive and thrive during even the most challenging times.

Bridging Generations: My Journey with DECA as a Collegiate Member and Parent
Through DECA, I've gained valuable business skills as an adult student and deepened my connection with my son as we navigate our educational journeys together.

DECA Alumni Spotlight: Gautam Ajjarapu
DECA alumni are more than just former members—they are changemakers, innovators and leaders in their careers. In this article meet Gautam Ajjarapu, an alumni recently featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 for his work helping financial institutions worldwide.

The Power of Marketing and Branding at Reedy High School
Rayyan Khan, a Marketing officer from Reedy DECA, the Texas DECA Chapter of the Year, emphasizes the importance of marketing and branding in building trust, fostering engagement and successfully managing a thriving chapter.

FinanceU: Money Talks
See how the FinanceU project leaders of Grayson County DECA are empowering their peers’ financial futures and helping them make informed financial decisions!

Announcing the Winners of the 2022 DECA Pumpkin Contest
Congratulations to the winners of DECA's Annual Pumpkin Contest! With an impressive 500+ submissions from members all across the DECA world, the selection process was not easy, but the members have voted and we are excited to announce the top three winners in each category!
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Non-Traditional SBE's: Printing and Engraving
School-based enterprises usually emerge in response to an identified need in the marketplace for a particular product or service. These two gold-certified, non-traditional SBEs are switching things up by providing their schools access to printing and engraving shops.
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Sauk Rapids-Rice DECA's First Officer Induction Ceremony
Sauk Rapids-Rice DECA hosted its first successful officer pinning and induction! The event consisted of professional headshots, music, dinner, a formal presentation of the executive council and the induction of all other junior officers.

Non-Traditional SBEs: Banks and Credit Unions
School-based enterprises usually emerge in response to an identified need in the marketplace for a particular product or service. These two gold-certified, non-traditional SBEs are switching things up by providing their schools access to banks and credit unions.

Blacksburg DECA's September Soiree Is a Success
In early September, Blacksburg DECA hosted its first annual "September Soiree" for potential members, including current marketing students and students enrolled in a marketing class next semester.
North Paulding DECA's Annual Tailgate Recruitment Social
What is a social? A social is where NPHS DECA as a chapter, gets together outside of school hours for an interactive activity/game planned by our officer team. This is a great way for our chapter to come together and create a lasting memory!

Syosset DECA Gets the Edge with Massive Membership Growth
Syosset experiences a 75% increase in membership, making them one of the largest chapters in New York. They are preparing for competition and can’t wait to Get the Edge!

An Innovative Way to Increase Member Engagement
Is your DECA chapter looking for a new and creative way to recruit members and increase member engagement? Learn how Cypress Bay DECA, the largest chapter in the world, uses "DECA Day" to retain current members and attract new ones!

Meet 4 DECA Alumni Who Have Maximized their Momentum
Over its more than 75-year history, DECA has prepared more than ten million members for college and career success. Here's how DECA shaped the career paths of four alumni and advice they wish to share with current members.

Alumni Spotlight: Ramkishore Annachi
Ramki served as DECA’s Southern Region Vice President for the 2020-2021 academic year. He was an avid competitor from North Carolina who was fortunate to have the opportunity to serve at the chapter, association and executive levels of leadership.

Alumni Spotlight: Mackenzie Perez
DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs to be college and career-ready, but what does that mean? I had the opportunity to meet with alumna Mackenzie Perez and discuss how DECA prepared her for college success.

Utah Collegiate DECA Hosts Fall Leadership Conference
Utah Collegiate DECA members attended their association's annual Fall Leadership Conference in November. Here are three key takeaways that members gained by participating.