DECA STATE TRIP: Placed Top 10 at State

Members of the DECA chapter at WGHS competed at the 2026 State Conference, where seniors Dillon Newton and Chloe Fankah placed 10th and qualified for ICDC.
by Chloe Fankah

Members of the DECA chapter at WGHS competed at the 2026 State Conference, where seniors Dillon Newton and Chloe Fankah placed 10th and qualified for ICDC.

This year’s state trip was an experience I will always remember. From the moment we arrived, the energy felt different. We brought our largest group yet, and being surrounded by so many dedicated members made the trip even more special. It was not just about competing; it was about representing our school, supporting each other, and creating memories together.

Overall, the trip was both exciting and rewarding. Henry described it as “great,” while Bostyn called it “very fun, very exciting, and a lot to learn.” Madelyn shared that she had a really good time bonding with everyone, which was something I think many of us can agree on. With such a large group attending, there was always someone to talk to, laugh with, or celebrate alongside.

Outside of competition, we attended a Hawks game and explored the hotel after competing. For some members, it was their first NBA game. Dillon mentioned that going to the Hawks game was especially memorable because she had never been before. Even though the game itself was not the most intense part of the trip for me, it was still nice to relax and enjoy time together as a chapter.
Our members competed in a variety of events. Henry competed in Sports and Entertainment Team Decision Making with his partner, Jordan McCollum. Bostyn participated in a Financial Literacy group project. Madelyn competed in Travel and Tourism. Dillon and I competed in Marketing Management Team Decision Making. In this event, we were given a business scenario and had to analyze the problem before presenting our solution to a judge through a role-play.

This year added an extra challenge because we had to retake our exam at state before moving on to the role-play. I was definitely nervous about the test, especially since I had not studied as much as I probably should have. Switching from test mode to presentation mode so quickly was stressful, but once we stepped into the role-play, our judge was kind and attentive, which helped calm my nerves.

When asked what they would have done differently, some members mentioned preparation. Henry said he would have studied more and made sure he and his teammate were completely in sync. Madelyn also shared that she would have reviewed her topic more before taking the test. Others, like Bostyn, said they would not change anything about their experience. Personally, I would not change a thing.

When Dillon and I heard our names called for the Top 10, it was an emotional moment. Placing 10th in the state and qualifying for ICDC felt like the perfect way to end the year. After months of preparation, practices, and balancing school responsibilities, hearing our names announced made all the hard work worth it.

Beyond awards, DECA offers something much bigger. Dillon said that DECA “has a place for everyone,” and I truly believe that. The club brings together students with strengths in many different areas and gives us hands-on experience in marketing, finance, hospitality, and leadership. Through role-plays that simulate real business situations, we build confidence, communication skills, and professionalism that will help us long after high school. Henry described DECA as “super fun” and full of opportunities to meet new people and create memories. Madelyn added that it allows students to bond with peers they might not normally talk to during the school day, while also strengthening college applications.
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Overall, this year’s state trip was more than just a competition. It was a reminder of how much we have grown as individuals and as a chapter. Whether we walked away with medals, new friendships, or simply valuable experience, every member contributed to making this trip one we will always remember.

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