The individuals that qualified for state definitely earned their way there. Not only did DECA members have to qualify for the state at districts but they also had to get 10 points worth of service. Their opportunities to get service came through raking leaves, getting judges for district or other ways to serve the community.

The DECA state conference took place March 1 -3.  DECA state allows students to have awesome experiences and further their business education. Senior Nick Mullenbach said, “DECA state was fun. It was nice to be out of school for a couple of days; plus, I got an award for the first time at state so that was a good experience.” For some students, it was their first trip in their career to DECA state. Freshman Ezra Oien said, “It was super fun and a unique experience. I met a lot of new friends and it has helped me grow as an individual and prepare me for my future.”

DECA has opened up many opportunities for students that taught many things they will use later in life. Senior Erin Hozerland said, “It taught me how to think on my feet and solve. I’ve developed public speaking skills and what it means to be professional.”

Many OHS students came back with hardware for placing in the finals at DECA state. OHS Finalists include: Whitni Minton in Sales Demonstration, Emma Loveless and Ruth Livingston for Business Finance Team Role Play, Josie Sullivan and Erin Hozerland for School Based Enterprise Presentation, Ruth Livingston and Kaitlyn Madole for Business Growth Plan Event, Emma Loveless and Elise Sande for Chapter Campaign Project, Ashton Jensen, Ruth Livingston and Nick Mullenbach for Top Test Scores. 

It was another successful year for OHS DECA with many members having a great year. All DECA officers who all qualified through doing projects will be making the trip for nationals to Nashville, TN.