RCSJ DECA Students Compete in National Conference

Seven Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) students traveledto Chicago this November to compete at the national DECA ENGAGE Conference, withtwo earning first place titles. Over 300collegiate DECA members from 17 associations across the country journeyed tothe “Windy City” over the weekend of November 21 – 23 to showcase their skills,learn from successful businesses and network with professionals.

Two first place title winners were our very own RCSJstudents: Marla J. Hughes, an Arts and Sciences major, dominated in the Marketingand Merchandising category and Jose L. Caltzalco-Gutierrez, a BusinessAdministration major, triumphed in the Hospitality and Tourism category. Noteworthy performances were also deliveredby Lauren Conn, Dylan C. Gager, Samuel O. Mensah, Mya C. Mills and Jeffrey A.Salamoni.

The DECA ENGAGE Conference is an exciting professionaldevelopment experience where students participate in networking opportunities,career development seminars, case study challenges and in-depth industry tours– all of which enhance their own career goals and aspirations. RCSJ students visited more than 20 businessesin downtown Chicago, including EMA Lettuce Entertain You, Men’s Warehouse andFoodMinds, along with attending a networking event at SPIN Chicago. They appreciated the real world experienceprovided through seeing how businesses operate first-hand and interacting with theindividuals from around the world who work for these businesses. The participating students chronicled theirexperiences on Instagram, @RCSJDECA.

The success of the RCSJ-Gloucester DECA club would nothave been possible without tireless coaching and preparation from club advisorsProfessor Trace, Instructor Callaway and Instructor Morganti. Professor Trace and Instructor Callawaychaperoned the trip, making this opportunity possible.