CFNN Reporter: Melketa Mcneill

With the school year underway, Cape Fear High School’s DECA Chapter is preparing for a year filled with competitions, fundraisers, community service, and other activities.

One of the chapter’s biggest goals is raising at least $1,500 for the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Friends of Cancer. During Pink Out Week (which takes place October 12-16), DECA members will sell pink merchandise and shirts, along with hosting a pie-in-the-face fundraiser at this Friday’s Homecoming pep rally.

Competition will also be a major part of the year. DECA competitors will travel to Fayetteville Technical Community College on November 13th for district competition, followed by the state competition in Greensboro in February. Students who qualify at the state level could advance to the International Career Development Conference, or ICDC.

This year, DECA has introduced a new requirement for students who want to advance to the state competition. Competitors must earn an average of at least 70 on their exam and role-play at the district level.

“The main event change to DECA this year that I would want students to know is the fact that this is the first year that we’re requiring students to meet proficiency at district-level competition in order to participate in state-level competition,” said Scarlett Telow, DECA’s vice president of competition and recognition.

The chapter is aiming to send at least 35 students to states, up from 33 last year. The competition gives students a chance to apply skills they have learned in class while practicing problem-solving and communication in a competitive setting.

Along with competitions, DECA members will participate in several community events. The chapter plans to visit the Bethesda Health Care Facility for Easter baskets and attend Night to Shine, a special-needs prom event. Fundraisers throughout the year will also help cover the costs of competitions.

Much of the work behind these events allows students to practice skills they learn in their business classes. Members help plan projects, manage inventory, promote events through social media, and keep track of money.

“I don’t like to just teach on paper,” DECA advisor Ms. Cox explained. “I like them to actually take what they learn and apply in real-life settings.”

That hands-on experience is also a major part of what DECA president Tiffany Sanchez values about the club. Through role-plays, case studies, chapter projects, and leadership opportunities, students have opportunities to build skills that can carry into college and future careers.

“Joining DECA completely changes how you approach the real world because you gain skills that normal classes just don’t teach you,” Sanchez said.

With district competition approaching, DECA members are continuing to prepare while working toward their fundraising, competition, and community service goals for the year.