For the first time in school history, Mepham business students have joined DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), allowing them to compete regionally and advance to the State Career Conference (SCC) for a chance to qualify for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in April. This week, business teacher Mrs. Frend led seven qualifying students (Andrew Graf, Eloise Hannula, Luke Fischetti, Nick Pariag, Drew Erickson, Jenny Marmol, and Thomas Youssef) to Rochester to compete at SCC in events such as Principles of Entrepreneurship, Accounting Applications, Business Finance, Professional Selling, and Hospitality and Lodging Selling. The conference, which hosted over 3,100 students competing in over 50 performance events from across New York, required competitors to present to industry professionals, including entrepreneurs, sales managers, human resource managers, CEOs, and CFOs, demonstrating their business acumen and professionalism under pressure. 

The students dedicated months of preparation, showcasing their hard work and commitment to excellence. Their participation in DECA marks an exciting milestone for Mepham’s business program, setting a strong foundation for future competitions. Walking away with medals was Drew Erickson placing in the Top 10 for Accounting Series and Eloise Hannula with Top 10 and Best Overall for Hospitality & Tourism Professional Selling. Each event held between 50 and 100 competitors!  The DECA team has made history by representing Mepham on a statewide stage and proving the strength of its business students. 

Congratulations to these amazing business students, and thank you to Ms. Frend for your leadership and guidance of our students.