In 1959, Eugene L. Dorr wrote to education teacher-coordinators in Arizona saying “our responsibility begins and ultimately ends with the student as the key individual.” The following year, Arizona DECA was founded.

Since then, DECA has been working with high schools and colleges throughout the state of Arizona to prepare students to be the next generation of business leaders. The non-profit organization prepares members for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management.

The first year DECA was established, about 240 students from nine different schools attended the first DECA delegate Conference. Now, there are 117 DECA chapters throughout Arizona. As of 2018, the program consisted of 5,652 students, teachers, alumni and professionals.

DECA provides curriculums, competitions and leadership development opportunities to their thousands of students each year. This last year, DECA sent 538 top-tier competitors to compete at the International Career Development Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. Of those 538, 45 made it on stage as leading international finalists, medalists or top-ten winners out of a competition of over 18,000 students from around the globe.

They also provide scholarships for their students! In 2018, DECA gave out over $22,000 worth in scholarships and over $7,000 in professional development scholarships for its teachers.

Nearly 88 percent of DECA members report that their personal DECA experience connected their school education to the real world and 95 percent of DECA members reported that they gained more practical skills, such as public speaking and problem solving.

Thousands of students have had their lives changed through DECA and have entered the real world more prepared. Here are just a few testimonials:

“When I joined DECA, I had no idea what I Was signing up for. An entrepreneurship class? Not even close. A club? Nope. I signed up for much more than that. I became a part of a community, a team, a spirit. When I joined DECA, I became so much more than just me. DECA has made me become a better, bigger person. I have struggled with anxiety for my whole life and felt like I never had a voice. Joining DECA has helped me overcome this battle. I have found my voice, I have become so much better and letting myself be heard because I know now that my voice has the power to make change just as much as anyone else.” –Hailey, Sophomore

“How do I begin? DECA has made an impact on my life that will last for years and years to come. By being involved in DECA, I was able to travel to Austin, Nashville and Anaheim, and experience everything DECA has to offer. Through these opportunities I was able to network, socialize and create relationships with people from around the world.” – Brooke, Senior

“DECA has taught me so much information that I can use in the future. DECA not only allowed for me to grow professionally and develop skills that are essential for the workforce, but it also allowed me to find my passions.  I don’t know what my life would be like without DECA. I wouldn’t be able to OWN MY FUTURE if I hadn’t been in DECA.” – Tram Pham, Senior

To learn more about Arizona DECA or how you can get involved, check out their website.