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On December 9, 2023, several students from the Shamrock DECA Chapter earned top awards at the District Conference held at Berkley High School, advancing to the State Championships.
“I am incredibly proud of our students’ performance at the District Conference. Their success reflects their relentless dedication, innovative thinking, and exceptional teamwork. Watching them excel and represent Catholic Central with such distinction is not just an achievement for our DECA program, but a testament to their potential as future leaders in the business world,” stated Business Department Chair and DECA Club Moderator, Mrs. Amanda Loffler.
DECA is a student club that allows prospective business professionals to compete in events that range from role playing to writing business plans. Students in CC’s DECA program learn business principles and how to communicate and think critically. The goal of the club is to give Shamrocks the opportunity and experience they need to succeed in the growing business world and prepare them for real life.
“DECA competes all year in many different events. The District Conference is the first major event. Students can earn medals for top performance in the comprehensive exam, role-play event, and for overall finalist,” stated Mrs. Loffler.
At this year’s District Conference, the team participated in several categories, including Principles of Business Administration, Individual Series, Team Decision Making, and Professional Selling and Consulting categories.
Notably, 12 DECA members were awarded medals for their exceptional performance in cluster exams. Drew Lehnert and the duo of Chase Ziegler and David Kibbey secured medals in the role-play segment, which was evaluated by a panel of judges.
Additionally, the Chapter President, Chase Ziegler, distinguished himself by winning all three available medals in his category, Team Decision Making in Hospitality and Tourism. This makes him the only competitor to attain such an accomplishment at this year's conference.
Overall, 15 competitors were recognized for their outstanding performance across various events, thereby securing their places at the upcoming State Conference. These accomplished students will join other members from CC’s DECA Chapter, who are currently preparing for written events slated for March 2024.
Students who earn a finalist medal will advance to the State Conference in March. There, they will compete to earn a spot at the National Conference in Anaheim, California, in April.
There are dozens of different categories DECA students can compete in. For a complete list, and for more information about the organization, please visit www.DECA.org.