DECA Trip: Fall Leadership Conference

A few selected members of Walnut Grove High School’s Deca club attend this year’s Fall Leadership Conference 2025 on November 6th -7th , allowing them to compete, attend leadership workshops, and network with peers.
by Chloe Fankah and Elmer Castillo Vazquez

A few selected members of Walnut Grove High School’s DECA club attended this year’s Fall Leadership Conference 2025 on November 6-7, allowing them to compete, attend leadership workshops, and network with peers.

This year’s Fall Leadership Conference was honestly such a good time. Between competing, hanging out, and just being with everyone, the whole trip had a really fun energy.

For some, it was their first LDC, but for others, it felt even better the second time around. “Since it was my second time, I was a lot more prepared,” said Henry King. “I definitely had a lot more to look forward to.” His favorite part of the trip was getting to see familiar faces and reconnecting with other DECA members.

Outside of the actual events, members spent time exploring, shopping, and making memories. “We went to a couple different places, and it was a bit colder than usual,” said Chase Lofton. “But that kind of made it more fun.” He also stated that he least expected to make so many friends from one trip.

The competitions brought a mix of nerves and excitement, but also some surprises. “Chloe and I did really well on our role play,” Claire Smith said. “We thought we’d do okay, but we actually got the highest score in our group, which was crazy.”

Dillon Newton, the DECA president stated that this is one of her favorite conferences of the year. “I tried out a new event and I really liked it,” she said when asked what was different from the past conferences. Her favorite part was, “Hanging out with my chapter members and going to the mall.”

DECA advisor Miss Milligan said this year’s conference really stood out. “I was expecting a great experience that helped our members grow as leaders,” she said. “It was also cool that this year’s LDC offered onsite testing, which isn’t usually done.”

By the end of the trip, everyone came home with new memories, new lessons, and a lot to be proud of.