Catholic Central High School brothers Tyler Jonna '27, Ethan Jonna '27, and Derek Jonna '29 have made school history by becoming the first DECA State Champions in the Business Growth Plan event.

"The Business Growth Plan category is one of the most unique and demanding events in DECA because competitors must be the actual owners and operators of a real business. Unlike many competitive events that focus on hypothetical business scenarios, students in this category develop and present a strategic growth plan based on their own entrepreneurial ventures, demonstrating real-world experience in business management, marketing, finance, and operations," shared DECA Moderator Amanda Loffler. 

Their award-winning business centers around a protein beverage vending machine they launched in the Catholic Central cafeteria. Designed with student-athletes and health-conscious consumers in mind, the machine offers protein coffee, protein shakes, electrolyte drinks, and creatine beverages. The brothers developed the business from the ground up, handling everything from budgeting and vendor selection to forming an LLC and establishing payment processing systems.

The Jonna brothers impressed judges with their professionalism, business knowledge, and vision for growth, earning the top honor at the Michigan DECA State Career Development Conference, which was held back in March.