Oklahoma High School DECA members delivered a record-breaking performance at the 2024 International Career Development Conference (ICDC), held April 24-27 in Anaheim, California. The conference, attended by over 23,000 students from across the country and internationally, is the pinnacle event for DECA, showcasing the best and brightest young business minds.

Oklahoma Soars with Top Performance

Among the 175 Oklahoma attendees representing 19 chapters, several students achieved remarkable feats:

• Antoni Lompart (Norman North High School) secured the Top Role Play position in the Restaurant and Food Service Management Series.
• Abigail Robertson (Edmond North High School) dominated the Principles of Hospitality and Tourism category, earning both Top Presentation and Finalist honors.
• Jonathan Alakara (Edmond-Santa Fe High School) displayed exceptional marketing skills, achieving Top Presentation and Finalist accolades in Principles of Marketing.
• The Mustang High School duo of Natalie Dick and Joanna Quezada became finalists in the Business Solutions Project.
• Ayla Relland (Francis Tuttle Technology Center) not only reached the finals in the Community Awareness Project but secured an impressive 2nd place finish, marking Oklahoma DECA’s first top-three international placement in over two decades.

Leadership and Development

Beyond competition success, Oklahoma DECA fostered leadership and professional development:

• Peighton Harak (Edmond North High School) mounted a strong campaign for Collegiate DECA President.
• Subaha Kibria (Edmond Santa Fe High School) proudly represented Oklahoma during the parade of associations.
• Katrina McDowell (High Plains Technology Center) served as the esteemed Principles of Marketing Event Director at the international level.

Paxton Cavin, Chartered Association Advisor for Oklahoma DECA, expressed immense pride in the students’ achievements. “This is a historic moment for Oklahoma DECA! The 2nd place win and the numerous finalist awards are a testament to the dedication of our students, advisors, and the success of the ‘Aim for Glass’ Competition Initiative launched last year.”

The impressive showing at the 2024 ICDC solidifies Oklahoma DECA as a powerhouse in business education. These experiences equip students with invaluable skills and fuel their passion for future careers in the dynamic world of business.

(Attached Photo:  Ayla Relland)