DECA is a premier international business association that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and post-secondary institutions worldwide. Currently, DECA has 220,000 members around the globe, with 15,000 students alone in the Ontario chapter!
Bishop Reding Catholic Secondary School's DECA chapter has been building momentum annually, with the strong work ethic of the club's executive and student trainers, the passion of each member, and dedicated teacher advisors. Last year, 5 students from Bishop Reding qualified for the finalist competition at the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Orlando, Florida.
This year, 65 members qualified for and competed at provincials. 27 students from Bishop Reding received medals, with two students, Sergio F. and Sean D., qualifying to attend ICDC on April 29 in Nashville, Tennessee!
Being a member of the Bishop Reding DECA chapter means more than having the opportunity to walk away from regional, provincial, and international competitions with a medal. DECA is about building Bishop Reding's community spirit, 21st Century Skills and giving students an opportunity to practice many of the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations (OCSGEs).
Minerva D., Co-President of this year's chapter, explained her experience with DECA,
"A year ago, I could never imagine standing up in front of someone, let alone a chapter of over 100 people and speaking on the spot. Through the oral component of my event, I have gained confidence and improved my presentation skills, and here I am, one year later, leading the largest and most successful DECA chapter in the Halton Catholic District School Board."
Congratulations to all of our DECA students and best of luck with your future endeavours!
Story written by DECA students from Bishop Reding Catholic Secondary School & Business Teacher, Kelly Nault-White.
