Cranford HS DECA Students Compete at International Conference

Four students from Cranford High School’s DECA chapter attended the 2017 International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, California from April 25-30. Competing were Kelly Drake, Food Marketing; Ben Bacall, Marketing Communications; and the team of Matthew Fonseca and Jeremy Hunt for Sports and Entertainment Marketing.

We are also proud to announce that Kelly Drake won an Instructional Award in her event. All competitors are required to take a written test in their area of expertise, and then participate in a series of role play scenarios before a judge. In order to attend Nationals, DECA members must first compete at the regional level, and then place in the top 6 of their event at the NJ State DECA Leadership Conference which was held in February, 2017. The Food Marketing event had more than 150 competitors with Kelly taking a high score for her role play event. This is the tenth consecutive year that members from Cranford High School have earned their way to Nationals.

DECA advisor, Mrs. Donna Cathcart stated, “Cranford High School students are second to none, and proudly and professionally represent their school, families, and community.” Co-advisor, Mrs. Cynthia Keyasko added, “Our members consistently demonstrate their talents and problem-solving skills year after year.” This year, Cranford High boasted a delegation of 92 members who continue to hone their communication, creativity, and leadership skills.

Almost 20,000 DECA members, teachers, and business professionals attended this annual event from around the globe to compete and participate in leadership academies, including delegations from the United States, China, Canada, Mexico, Guam, Spain, and South Korea. DECA prepares emerging leaders for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. With nearly a 70-year history, DECA has impacted the lives of more than ten million students, educators, school administrators and business professionals since it was founded in 1946. It currently has more than 215,000 members from 3,500 high schools across the United States.