Cape High DECA chapter recognized for excellence

The Cape Henlopen High School DECA chapter has earned national recognition, achieving the DECA Promotional Campaign Award, an honor presented to select chapters that demonstrate excellence in chapter engagement, outreach and career preparation.

A national nonprofit, DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. Each fall, DECA recognizes leading chapters that build strong local programs focused on serving members, advisors, alumni and business partners. These chapters dedicate significant time and effort to academic and career preparation, community service initiatives, membership recruitment, school outreach and other DECA-related activities that strengthen both their school and local community.

This year, the Cape High DECA chapter earned the Promotional Campaign distinction by successfully completing activities across three required categories: school outreach, alumni success and community outreach. From September through November, chapter members organized and participated in a series of events designed to showcase what DECA is and how the organization positively impacts students and the broader community.

One of the chapter’s most meaningful and memorable initiatives was Puzzles & People, a community outreach activity in which DECA members walked to The Lodge at Historic Lewes, a nearby senior living facility, to spend time with residents. During the visit, students taught residents how to play New York Times games and participated in trivia, fostering intergenerational connections and community engagement.

“Earning this recognition reflects the creativity, commitment, and leadership of our students,” said Kristen Jones, Cape marketing teacher and DECA advisor. “Our members worked intentionally to share the mission of DECA while making a positive impact in our school and community. I am incredibly proud of Addison Breneman and the entire DECA leadership team for the dedication they have shown this year.”

Out of 4,364 DECA chapters nationwide, only 181 chapters earned recognition in DECA’s chapter campaigns, placing Cape Henlopen High School among a select group of high-performing chapters.

“This achievement highlights the strong leadership and collaborative spirit of our DECA students,” said Kristin DeGregory, Cape principal. “Their commitment to service, professional growth and community outreach exemplifies the real-world learning experiences we strive to provide for our students.”