About Maryland DECA
Welcome to the Maryland Chapter of DECA, an international organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.
What is DECA?
DECA is a national organization founded in 1947 that aims to develop occupational skills in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. It serves as a valuable tool for teachers to motivate and inspire students through hands-on experiences and competitions. DECA is designed to complement classroom instruction, offering unique opportunities for students to gain practical knowledge and recognition in their fields.
Purpose and Activities of DECA
The primary goal of DECA is to promote an understanding of our free enterprise system while equipping students with skills in specific occupational areas. DECA’s activities focus on competitive events at the local, state, and national levels, allowing students to showcase their skills in leadership development, management training, and specific occupational competencies. In addition to competition, DECA fosters leadership qualities through a student-directed organization, preparing members for future career success.
Integration with Curriculum
DECA is co-curricular, meaning it is integrated into the marketing, management, and entrepreneurship courses offered in schools. This integration provides teachers access to a wide range of resources and activities that enhance classroom instruction. DECA aligns its programs with career clusters identified by the U.S. Department of Education, such as Business, Management, Administration, Finance, Hospitality, and Marketing. Members have the opportunity to compete in Written Events, Individual Role Plays, and Team Decision Events, further preparing them for real-world challenges.
MISSION
Maryland DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. We hope to serve ALL of Maryland DECA with opportunities to connect to other DECA Members as well as Supporters of Maryland DECA.
VISION
As a 501(c)(3) student organization, Maryland DECA provides the foundation for rigorous, innovative, and engaging ways for students to challenge themselves in their business course work by conducting, evaluating, and presenting innovative research projects for future or existing businesses, and seeking opportunities to become community-involved, while learning the value of giving back.