By: John Tomaino, New Fairfield Lions Club Membership Chair
Members representing the New Fairfield High School DECA Club attended the New Fairfield Lions Club meeting on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Biscotti's Restaurant. DECA members Gabby Alit and Kaelyn Schuchat spoke about how DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Gabby and Kaelyn will represent New Fairfield High School at the DECA International Career Development Conference, which is taking place in Orlando, Florida on April 26-29, 2025. Their DECA Advisor and NFHS Math Teacher, Danielle McDermott will accompany them. DECA is seeking donations to help fund their trip to the conference and to help support their club. The New Fairfield Lions Club donated $1200, with $500 going towards travel expenses and gifted the girls $100 each to enjoy their time in Orlando. The remaining $500 will go directly to DECA at New Fairfield High School, which currently has over 90 members.
The DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) is the culmination of the DECA year. More than 23,000 high school students, teacher- advisors, business professionals and alumni gather for several days of DECA excitement. DECA members demonstrate their college and career ready knowledge and skills by participating in DECA’s industry-validated Competitive Events Program, aligned with Career Clusters, National Curriculum Standards and 21st Century Skills in the areas of marketing, finance, hospitality, management and entrepreneurship. These members have qualified to attend based on superior performance at the district and association levels. More than 1,000 business professionals serve as judges to evaluate DECA members’ mastery of these concepts.
In addition, thousands of members participate in DECA’s Emerging Leader Series, which helps them attain 21st Century Skills in the areas of collaboration and teamwork, communication, critical thinking and problem solving and creativity. One highlight is the involvement of executive mentors who provide college and career advice.
Thousands of DECA advisors and educators participate in administering DECA’s Competitive Events Program and Emerging Leader Series while also participating in professional learning activities.
Photo (L-R) Gabby Alit, DECA Teacher-Advisor-Danielle McDermott, Kaelyn Schuchat with Lions Club President, Joe Holczinger
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