Distributive Education Clubs of America, more commonly known as DECA, is popular among Homestead students who aspire to achieve excellence in business and marketing in their futures. Through various events and competitions, DECA encourages leadership skills that can be transferred to students’ future careers.

In its fifth year, DECA is a relatively new club to Homestead High School. Heaven Kim, junior, is excited about the progress that Homestead DECA has made in the last several years. “It’s definitely got a lot of potential with many smart and talented members, so I think we have a great team,” Kim said.

Adam Garsha, sophomore, joined DECA last year as a freshman. Garsha reflects positively on his freshman year and looks forward to building on his skills at the upcoming competitions. “I loved how I was able to compete in something I was unfamiliar with and succeed,” Garsha said.

Mr. Brandn Lindsey stepped into the role of the DECA advisor for the first time during the 2019-2020 school year. Due to this last-minute change, the beginning of the season has consisted of some adjustments for the team.

Despite the unexpected changes, Dylan Bradley, senior, and his peers greatly appreciate Mr. Lindsey’s positive attitude, willingness to learn, and expertise surrounding business. “He’s organized and professional and definitely has good experience with DECA,” Bradley said.

Alongside Lindsey, students on the board also help to lead the DECA team to success. Adam Gartha, sophomore, Sarah Li, sophomore, Rohan Kaushal, senior, Freya Salsbury, senior, Andrew Shih, senior, Drew Braaten, senior, and David Klein, senior, are acting members of the board.

Shih embraces his role on the board as an opportunity to demonstrate leadership. Shih acts as the Vice President of Project Manager. “I maintain cooperation on the board [and] provide support and ensure that things are getting done,” Shih said.

As season approaches, the DECA team is looking ahead to their upcoming competitions. They will compete in the Wisconsin State Competition on March 5, 2020 in Delavan, Wisc. Following State, students will compete at Internationals from April 29, 2020 to May 2, 2020.

“Personally, my goals for this year in DECA are to just work hard, have fun, and as helpful as possible as a member of the executive board,” Kim said.