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Plymouth Whitemarsh DECA shines at state conference

Plymouth Whitemarsh DECA shines at state conference
Large group of high school students in business suits

by Eliza Meersman, PWHS Class of Class of 2027

Plymouth Whitemarsh High School’s DECA chapter recently returned from the Pennsylvania DECA State Career Development Conference, where they showed dedication, professionalism, and commitment in the business field. Our students competed against top DECA members from across the state, demonstrating their knowledge, project management skills, and leadership.

DECA conferences prepare high-schoolers for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Throughout the conference, PW students participated in competitive events, attended career development workshops, and networked with peers and business professionals from around Pennsylvania. These unique experiences allowed students to gain insight on future careers while building valuable connections.

For example, a senior PW DECA member, Zach Halbert, stated that “Before [he] joined DECA, [he] considered [him]self aimless. Now, reflecting on all of [his] experiences with the organization—competing, test-taking, networking—[he] feels incredibly prepared for life in college and beyond as a businessman and leader.” Through these conferences, thousands of students are able to develop these skills, and almost all of them tend to share a deep appreciation for DECA (additional quotes at the bottom of the article).

This year, Plymouth Whitemarsh had multiple students receive awards for top test and role-play scores, and even some who were top-finishers in their events:

  • Eliza Meersman & Ethan Gold - 2nd Place Project Management Community Giving
  • Zach Halbert - 4th Place Accounting Applications
  • Kevin Dimarco & Tyler Yuen - 5th Place Franchise Business Plan
     

Because of their strong showings, five of them (Eliza, Ethan, Zach, Kevin, and Tyler) are advancing to the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Atlanta at the end of April. 

DECA State medalists heading to Nationals with teacher Beth Rickard


In addition to individual achievements, the PW DECA chapter earned multiple chapter awards, including recognition for its thorough Plan of Action, and national recognition for our community service, membership growth, and chapter marketing. These accomplishments reflect the chapter’s strong organization and impact within the school and community. Our chapter advisor, Beth Rickard,  was also recognized for her outstanding work and dedication to members and DECA as a whole.

The success of Plymouth Whitemarsh DECA would not be possible without the support of school administrators, our community, and families who encourage the student, so thank you! As PW DECA awaits the international competition, we look back on everything accomplished at the state level. The members truly encapsulate the spirit of DECA and the excellence of Plymouth Whitemarsh High School. Congratulations everyone!

Additional insights from DECA members:

  • “DECA taught me real-world business experience and has truly emulated authentic business experiences for me and so many other students.” - Oliver Nasatir
     
  • “I joined DECA initially just to check off a box as another extracurricular. However, DECA has helped shape me as a person and both the hard and soft skills I have learned from my time in DECA will truly last a lifetime.” - Jason Walters
     
  • “I initially joined DECA to just have fun with my friends, but quickly realized it was more than just a club. Through DECA I have learned many skills applicable to the real-world work environment and have made many friends along the way.” -Megan Profrock

 

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