Morgan Quill
Pictures taken in Orlando on the DECA ICDC competition
This April, Indian Hills DECA competitors who qualified for nationals took part in the national competition in Orlando, Florida. Between Ramapo and Indian Hills alone, 24 members attended this year, going up against hundreds of teams from across the country to see who would come out on top. Although the trip is largely focused on the competition, attendees also spent a day at Universal Studios, where they went on roller coasters and bonded as a chapter.
In the Travel and Tourism Team Decision Making event category, seniors Tristan Casella and Brady Dransfield left Orlando as one of the top 10 finalists internationally. “They clearly understood the assignment,” DECA advisor Ms. Fanale stated. “They proudly medaled on the DECA International Stage.” Overall, students from both Indian Hills and Ramapo DECA competed against 200 teams that were among the best and brightest in the country.
Gaby Becker, President of Indian Hills DECA, earned an Emerging Leader Honor Award, a national scholarship that recognizes accomplished students studying marketing, finance, or hospitality and management, and was recognized for her passion for entrepreneurship. Gaby also attended a banquet dinner where she met with the DECA sponsors. “I had a great experience at ICDC because I was able to meet new people, compete, and showcase my DECA skills,” Becker said. “The trip went really great, and I’m grateful to Ms. Fanale and helping plan everything. I’m really proud of the chapter for all their success.”
Even those who did not receive an award still had tremendous victories competing at the national level, and the effort put into competing and preparing was noticeable from all delegates. Congratulations to all of the RIH DECA National Delegates!