HHS Students Finish in 2nd At International ICDC/DECA Competition

Adam Eljamal, Matthew Schwartz and Brett Silber - representing both Harrison High School and NY State DECA - had record breaking achievements at this year’s International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Anaheim, California. ICDC is the final and highest level of DECA competition with over 17,000 high school students from all 50 states, Canada, China, Spain, South Korea and other nations in attendance. The best business students from around the world competed in the fields of Marketing, Hospitality, Business Management, Finance and Entrepreneurship.

Senior Adam Eljamal and junior Matthew Schwartz became the first Harrison students ever to place at internationals coming in 2nd place, competing in the Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making event. In this event, they completed a test and several “role plays”. Adam and Matthew were the first students from Harrison to score high enough to be eligible for the finals of the ICDC competition at the Achievement Awards Session. Later in the day, they were called as international top 10 winners, receiving the coveted 2nd place trophy.

“Being a part of such a diverse and qualified field at the international level was one of the best experiences I've ever had,” Elijamal stated. “To me, getting recognized for our achievements at such a level was indicative not only of me and my partner’s qualifications, but also the school and community that prepared us."

Adam and Matthew were proud to represent both Harrison High School and the New York State DECA Association as one of only 6 event winners from New York. Adam was also the first Harrison student to qualify more than once at the New York State Conference to compete at ICDC.

Not only have the two students shown record breaking achievement, Matthew - who serves as the President of HHS DECA Club- and Adam, the club’s Vice-President, demonstrated impressive commitment in the club this year. Their board introduced new programs that helped students prepare for all levels of competition. Additionally, Matthew, Adam, and the board led a food drive through DECA’s Community Service Chapter Campaign as well as several fundraising activities, all which engaged the club’s over 100 members.

“Brett Silber competed in the Restaurant & Food Services Management Series event at ICDC. He gave a valiant effort and made Harrison proud. His scores on the tests and role plays were admirable, and we are extremely proud of him for qualifying and competing at the international level,” said Joe Santo, who along with Deirdre McQuillan served as DECA club advisors.