DECA Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. With over 227,000 members, DECA operates in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Germany. The United States Congress, the United States Department of Education and the state and international departments of education authorize DECA’s programs. For more
Chartered associations are among the most valuable assets in providing resources and leadership to help local chapters. While DECA provides guidelines for its Comprehensive Learning Program, chartered associations administer DECA Inc. learning programs and offer additional programs that address the specific needs of their membership. College charters are held by either state departments of education or a non-profit corporation.
Find your association contact at deca.org/associations
If you do not have a chartered association contact listed, please contact Michelle Le, Collegiate DECA’s Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator, at collegiate@deca.org for more information.
EXECUTIVE OFFICER TEAM
Collegiate DECA’s Executive Officers are elected by the student members to provide leadership for the current academic year. As our primary student public relations agents, Collegiate DECA’s Executive Officers represent nearly 4,500 members to various stakeholders, including fellow members, advisors, education administrators, business partners, public policymakers and more. They also develop a program of leadership to assist with implementing DECA Inc.’s strategic plan.
Connect with the officers at deca.org/collegeofficers
DECA INC. STAFF
The DECA staff administers a variety of programs and services to the organization’s nearly 227,000 members in 3,900 high schools and colleges around the globe. The DECA staff is here to assist you and your chapter.
Get in touch at deca.org/staff
WEBSITES TO BOOKMARK
Collegiate DECA collegiatedeca.org
DECA Direct Online decadirect.org/collegiate
Membership System deca.org/register
Shop DECA shopdeca.org
Collegiate ENGAGE deca.org/engage
Collegiate DECA ICDC deca.org/cicdc
Starting a Chapter
Starting your own Collegiate DECA chapter requires a great deal of time, effort and planning to ensure prolonged chapter success—even after you graduate. Follow this step-by-step guide to make setting up your chapter even easier and maximize your impact in the years to come.
STEP 1: RESEARCH COLLEGIATE DECA
Before starting a Collegiate DECA chapter, it’s essential to understand DECA and its purpose. In addition, it’s important to recognize and understand how Collegiate DECA differs from the High School Division. Conducting thorough research on Collegiate DECA’s programs and how it aligns with your university’s goals will help you to establish, build and maintain your chapter. Verify that there is not an active chapter on your campus already. Utilize the Collegiate DECA chapter map to find out which campuses have established chapters. Also ensure that your chapter will meet the DECA Inc. requirements and your association’s requirements.
collegiatedeca.org
STEP 2: FIND LIKE-MINDED STUDENTS
Building a successful Collegiate DECA chapterespecially a brand new one - requires a dedicated team of individuals. Reach out to fellow students who share an interest in business, marketing, finance, hospitality, entrepreneurship or other related fields. Use social media, student organization fairs, and class announcements to find potential members. Create a group chat or an email list to keep everyone connected.
CHAPTER REQUIREMENTS
STEP 3: GAUGE INTEREST AND SUPPORT
Host an informational meeting to introduce Collegiate DECA to interested students. Explain the benefits of joining, such as networking opportunities, competitions and skill development. Use your previously acquired research to further support these benefits and answer potential questions. Gauge the level of interest and ensure adequate support from students, faculty and university administration.
STEP 4: OBTAIN APPROVAL FROM YOUR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY
Once you know your chapter can meet the DECA Inc. and your association’s requirements, the next step is to ensure you have the support of your school’s administration. Contact the appropriate university/college department or office to seek approval for starting a new student organization. They may require documentation, such as a constitution, a list of members, and a faculty advisor. It is important that you choose a faculty member who is passionate about DECA and willing to guide the chapter for years to come.
If you’re interested in bringing Collegiate DECA to your college or university, explore the criteria to determine if your institution is eligible to start a chapter. If your request is approved, our recruitment and engagement coordinator will be with you every step of the way to help you make your Collegiate DECA chapter a rewarding educational experience for you and your members. deca.org/bring-deca-to-your-college
STEP 5: DEVELOP A CONSTITUTION
Work together with your core group of students and faculty advisor to draft a constitution for your Collegiate DECA chapter. The constitution should outline the chapter’s purpose, membership criteria, leadership structure, meeting schedule and voting procedures. Ensure it aligns with your university’s requirements and that the students that come after you will understand your vision.
STEP 6: REGISTER YOUR CHAPTER WITH DECA
After you receive approval from all parties, get the official process rolling by completing a new chapter request form. Visit deca.org and navigate to the Collegiate DECA section. Follow the instructions to request to start a new chapter. This step ensures that your chapter is officially recognized by DECA Inc., granting access to valuable resources and support.
deca.org/chapterrequest
STEP 7: PLAN AND SCHEDULE MEETINGS
Create a detailed meeting schedule for the entire semester or academic year. Consider hosting regular chapter meetings, workshops, guest speaker events and skillbuilding sessions. Be mindful of school holidays and exam periods while planning.
STEP 8: SECURE FUNDING
Determine the financial needs of your Collegiate DECA chapter and explore funding options. Consider approaching your college or university’s student government or administration for financial support. If your university has an Office of Advancement or an Alumni Engagement Office, this is a great place to start making connections with university donors and partners. A gift fund may be possible in order to further your fundraising efforts depending on the campus. Additionally, explore fundraising opportunities within your local campus community.
decadirect.org/fundraising
STEP 9: SET CHAPTER GOALS
Work with your team to set specific, measurable, attainable, reaching and timely (SMART) goals for the chapter. These goals could include increasing membership, organizing successful events or participating in competitions.
STEP 10: ORGANIZE NETWORKING EVENTS
Networking is a vital and exciting aspect of DECA. Plan and host networking events where students interact with industry professionals, alumni and potential employers. Collaborate with local businesses, career centers and alumni associations to bring in valuable connections.
STEP 11: PROMOTE DECA ON CAMPUS
Develop a marketing plan to promote your Collegiate DECA chapter across the campus. Utilize posters, flyers, social media and email newsletters to reach out to the student body. Utilize a liaison on the chapter officer team. This individual can work with the university, school of business and community to partner and further the reach of your chapter. This could be the responsibility of a Vice President, President or a new chapter position. Highlight the benefits of joining Collegiate DECA and showcase successful events and achievements.
decadirect.org/membership-recruitment
STEP 12: HOLD INFORMATION SESSIONS
Organize information sessions and workshops for potential members to learn more about DECA, its mission and the opportunities it offers. Address any questions or concerns they may have and encourage them to join the chapter. Encourage your chapter leaders and potential new members to attend One Diamond Calls to learn more about what Collegiate DECA offers.
STEP 13: PARTICIPATE IN DECA COMPETITIONS
Participation in DECA competitions is a significant aspect of the organization. Encourage interested members to form teams and participate in regional, association and international competitions. Provide training and support to ensure they perform well.
deca.org/collegecompete
STEP 14: EVALUATE AND ADJUST
At the end of each semester or academic year, evaluate your chapter’s progress toward its goals. Analyze what worked well and what needs improvement. Use this feedback to adjust your strategies and make necessary changes to improve the chapter’s performance.
STEP 15: FOSTER A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT
Create a welcoming and inclusive environment within your Collegiate DECA chapter. Encourage collaboration, teamwork, and respect among all members. Celebrate achievements and support each other’s growth.
Starting and maintaining a successful Collegiate DECA chapter takes time and dedication. Stay committed, and your chapter will flourish with consistent effort, providing valuable experiences and opportunities to its members. Good luck on your journey to building an incredible Collegiate DECA chapter at your college or university.
Member Recruitment
Recruitment is essential for the growth, continuity and success of any DECA chapter. Here are some points to consider:
• Identify Your Target Audience: Define your target audience based on the goals and values of DECA. Consider targeting outreach efforts towards interested in business, marketing, finance, hospitality, entrepreneurship and related fields.
• Promote DECA: Utilize various channels to promote DECA, such as social media, school newsletters, bulletin boards, and classroom presentations. Highlight the benefits and opportunities that DECA provides to its members and the importance of the DECA brand.
• Host Information Sessions: Arrange sessions to introduce DECA to potential members. Share the chapter’s purpose, activities, and membership benefits. Encourage questions and interaction to make it an engaging experience for all those in attendance. Remember not all DECA members are business students.
• Collaborate with School Administration: Seek support from school administrators to promote DECA and recruit members. They can assist in spreading the word, providing various types of resources, financial and otherwise, or allocating space for meetings.
• Build Relationships: Foster relationships with other student organizations, teachers, and local businesses. Collaborate on joint events or initiatives to create networking opportunities and increase DECA’s visibility.
• Get Social: Many colleges have Facebook groups or pages where students can share information about upcoming events, ask questions about classes and more. These pages are an excellent opportunity to promote your chapter to incoming first-year students. In addition, you can interact with your school’s outlets on your chapter’s social media pages for more visibility.
• Utilize Professional Membership: Professional members are vital to the success of our organization, and they often have very insightful stories to share. You can have them discuss their experiences and relate it back to how the skills DECA helps students develop assisted them in achieving their success
Find more tips and ideas at decadirect.org/membership-recruitment
BRAND RESOURCES
Browse DECA’s online library of downloadable logos, templates, videos, animations and more to use in your membership recruitment efforts. deca.org/brand
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Michelle Le, Recruitment + Engagement Coordinator
collegiate@deca.org or (703) 860-5000
MEMBER RETENTION
Retaining members is crucial for maintaining a strong and engaged DECA chapter. Consider the following strategies:
• Establish a Mentorship Program: Pair new members with experienced ones to provide guidance and support. This helps new members feel welcomed and facilitates their integration into the chapter.
• Offer Leadership Opportunities: Encourage members to take on leadership roles within the chapter. Provide training and mentorship to help them develop their skills and contribute to the organization. These positions can range from chapter officer positions to chair positions or even program director positions.
• Provide Professional Development: Organize workshops, seminars or guest speaker events to enhance members’ 21st century skills. Offer resources and opportunities for members to gain industry knowledge and experience.
• Recognize Achievements: Celebrate members’ accomplishments and milestones. Recognize their hard work and dedication through awards, certificates or public acknowledgments. This is also a great opportunity to gain some social media content.
• Conduct Member Surveys: Regularly gather feedback from members to understand their needs and preferences. Use the feedback to improve chapter activities, address concerns, and ensure member satisfaction.
CHAPTER EVENTS
Chapter events are vital in fostering engagement and creating a sense of community within DECA. Consider the following:
• Diverse Event Offerings: Organize various events that cater to different interests and skill sets. These include workshops, competitions, guest lectures, social events, community service activities and fundraising initiatives.
• Planning and Promotion: Create a detailed event plan, including objectives, timelines and required resources. Effectively promote events through multiple channels, such as social media, emails and word-of-mouth.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with other DECA chapters, student organizations or local businesses to organize joint events. This expands the reach of your chapter and creates networking opportunities. You can also consider partnering with businesses or companies to do field trips/tours where you can be taken behind the scenes to get a better glimpse into daily operations.
• Event Evaluation: After each event, conduct evaluations to gather participant feedback. Assess the event’s success, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments for future events.
Chapter Leadership
Leadership is more than just a one-person job. Regardless of whether you are a president or vice president, leaders are those that people look to for guidance. While developing leaders helps to grow an individual or chapter, it ultimately helps grow the whole organization.
Leadership can mean a variety of things, but as a leader, it is important to:
• Listen to others’ thoughts and suggestions. Listening to everyone’s ideas allows others to be more involved and can provide many unique perspectives and ideas that might not have been previously considered. Additionally, it gives your leadership team direct feedback you can use to identify both potential areas of strength and areas of improvement.
• Communicate effectively. Clear and effective communication with your officer team and members will inspire them and leave no room for misunderstanding. In order to effectively communicate, it is important to agree on the method of communication most preferred and discuss the differing schedules in your leadership team.
• Acknowledge strengths and weaknesses for yourself and your team. No one is perfect, but acknowledging weaknesses and where you excel is an important part of growth, and tasks can be done with that in mind.
• Delegate tasks. Catering tasks to those more skilled than others in certain areas will help your team be more productive and go further in what you aim to accomplish. This also allows everyone to take on tasks most suited to their roles and schedules, which helps ensure tasks are completed in a timely manner.
• Hold yourself and others accountable. We all make mistakes, so holding yourself and others accountable during those critical times can teach us how to learn from our errors.
• Show humility. Regardless of position or title, it’s important to remember that no individual is above the team as a whole. Your leadership team is all coming together to ensure the success of your chapter, so it is important to remember you all share the same goal.
• Be willing to compromise. Ideas come and go all the time. One way or a traditional way is not always the best way of doing things, so being willing to look at other options can help move forward with progress. Being willing to compromise and innovate will allow your chapter to reach new heights.
• Have a growth mindset toward everything you do. Having a growth mindset means realizing that things take time to develop. Evaluate each experience, identify areas for improvement and move forward.
The word “leadership” has different meanings for different people, so being able to incorporate and hone in on multiple leadership styles to help the most people will help your chapter overcome any obstacles and make significant progress throughout the year. Understanding your team members strengths and weaknesses and delegating accordingly will help ensure the success of your chapter. As an activity for your officer team, consider learning about each others leadership styles by taking the DECA Leadership Styles quiz.
Find more tips and ideas at decadirect.org/leadership
POSITIONS OF A CHAPTER LEADERSHIP TEAM
No one person can do it all by themselves, so working to establish an effective officer team will help set up your chapter for a year of success. There can be various positions on an officer team, but it usually consists of one president and five vice presidents with differing responsibilities. This can vary depending on a chapter’s size. These positions and responsibilities are:
• Chapter President - Responsible for meeting planning, updating members on events, managing communication with the association officer team and chapter advisor and keeping the chapter current and moving forward.
• Vice President of Career Development - Responsible for chapter participation, preparation and performance in Competitive Events, as well as connecting members with possible internship and employment fairs, opportunities or offices.
• Vice President of Finance - Responsible for chapter budgeting, accounting and fund development efforts.
• Vice President of Hospitality - Responsible for connecting members to a welcoming, value-filled and educational experience.
• Vice President of Marketing - Responsible for initial member recruitment, branding and promotions.
• Vice President of Leadership - Responsible for all non-competitive event and leadership activities.
You should also consider appointing one of your chapter leadership team members to act as a liaison between your schools administration and your chapter. Doing this creates a relationship where your chapter can be be better supported through your university and opens your leadership team up to further opportunities for your chapters growth. As the saying goes, “There is no ‘I’ in team.” That is just as true here, as no one position is more important than another. As a team, you can rely on each other. You will most likely become friends with these people and work with them throughout the year to grow your chapter.
SAMPLE LEADERSHIP TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES
CHAPTER PRESIDENT
• Facilitates leadership team and chapter meetings
• Serves as liaison between the team and the state/ provincial association
• Maintains contact with the advisor, including contacting university administration when appropriate
• Supports connections with alumni and professionals
• Assists Collegiate DECA executive officers when needed
• Leads the development of an annual chapter program of leadership
• Delegates organization’s tasks to leadership team and Collegiate DECA members
VICE PRESIDENT OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT
• Focuses on preparing members for competition
• Develops competitive event training materials
• Plans mock competition and practice opportunities
• Encourages participation in Collegiate DECA challenges
• Plans professional and career development workshops
• Arranges guest speakers and business tours
• Maintains potential internship contacts
VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE
• Prepares annual budget
• Collects membership dues
• Keeps record of all financial accounts
• Provides financial statements when necessary
• Maintains the financial history of their chapter
• Leads fund development efforts
VICE PRESIDENT OF HOSPITALITY
• Responsible for new member onboarding/orientation
• Works to make all DECA events and meetings interesting
• Obtains appropriate facilities for Collegiate DECA events and activities
• Aids in preparing meeting agendas
• Works to create a positive and inviting chapter culture
• Plans social events
VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING
• Leads all membership recruitment efforts and activities
• Creates marketing/advertising materials
• Manages social media accounts
• Maintains chapter website
• Submits articles to DECA Direct Online
• Ensures adherence to DECA’s brand standards
VICE PRESIDENT OF LEADERSHIP
• Oversees chapter and individual submissions for the Leadership Passport Program
• Prepares members to participate in educational conferences
• Leads community service activities
• Provides opportunities for recognition and awards
DEVELOP A PROGRAM OF LEADERSHIP
Developed by the chapter officer team, the Program of Leadership consists of your big year-round goals comprised of what you’d like to accomplish during your term as a chapter officer. Goals could include:
• Increasing membership
• Hosting more fundraisers
• Increasing member engagement
Do not expect these goals to be completed during one or two meetings. These are long-term goals to be developed and improved upon so that you can see the impact that your team made when the end of your term comes.
Work with your team to set specific, measurable, attainable, reaching and timely (SMART) goals for the chapter. It is important that these goals be in this format to ensure your team can adequately track progress throughout the year.
INVEST IN LEADERSHIP
Investing in leadership is a fantastic way to shape the upcoming years of your chapter by ensuring members and officers understand responsibilities and allowing members to run for officer positions in the future to help better the chapter. In turn, this will help grow the chapter over time and lead to more successes being accomplished. You may consider adding an officer shadowing program that gives newer members the ability to assist the current officers, or even introduce chair positions to help plan a certain event.
SOLVE PROBLEMS
No team is perfect—no matter how hard they try—and inter-team conflicts may arise at some point. When having a team conflict, it is important to:
• Keep it internal - Do not let the issue affect the operations of the chapter or your members. This is especially important for the development of a positive culture within your chapter.
• Talk about it with your team - The best thing to do is openly and honestly discuss any difference of opinions. Listen to every perspective and see if there’s a change of heart; if not, try and compromise.
Chapter Meetings
Effective planning ensures productive and engaging meetings. Here are some tips:
• Establish Clear Objectives: Determine the purpose and desired outcomes of each meeting. Create an agenda that includes key discussion points, activities, and time allocations.
• Develop Engaging Presentations: Use multimedia tools, guest speakers or interactive activities to keep meetings engaging and informative. Encourage member participation through discussions, group work or role-playing exercises.
• Utilize Technology: Leverage technology platforms for scheduling meetings, communication and collaboration. For remote or hybrid meetings, consider using video conferencing such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc.
• Prepare and Communicate: Share meeting agendas and materials in advance to give members time to prepare. Regularly communicate meeting updates, reminders and important information through various channels.
• Follow-up and Act: Summarize key discussion points, decisions and action items after each meeting. Share these with members to ensure everyone is on the same page and accountable for their responsibilities.
ENGAGING CHAPTER MEETING IDEAS
Academically Prepared
Competitive Events Workshop
Partner with Another Student Organization
Mock Competition Night
Host a Financial Literacy Workshop
Community Oriented
Host a Volunteer Day
Collaborate with Local Businesses for Fundraising Projects
Work with Chambers of Commerce
Partner With Local Startups
Professionally Responsible
Guest Speaker Events (Alumni, Business Professionals)
“Hear From Local Entrepreneurs” Workshop
Local Company Site Visits
Professional Etiquette Workshop
Experienced Leaders
Co-host a Leadership Meeting with Other Chapters
Alumni or Professional Member Mentorship Programs
Leadership Panel Discussion
Scenario-Based Leadership Training
Chapter Fundraising
Fundraising is an important activity for any chapter, allowing easier access to necessary funds for events with registration fees and travel expenses. Fundraising can look different for every chapter, but for on-campus fundraising, some suggestions are:
• Sell merchandise or food on campus during sporting events and other activities
• Host an event or competition (which can also serve as a recruitment activity)
• Host a raffle with prizes
Remember if an organization or individual wants to donate to DECA Inc., it is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, allowing them to write off their donation as a tax expense. However, if a donor makes a donation to an individual chapter, local chapter officers should verify the tax rules and code with their university.
Find more ideas at decadirect.org/fundraising
STEP 1: PLAN
• Develop an annual budget for your chapter so you know how much you need to raise.
• Collaborate with chapter members to brainstorm opportunities to gain financial support. Consider local advocacy (university support, grants, etc.), business partnerships, personal selling, and events and activities.
STEP 2: CONNECT
• Your university may have additional resources for clubs and chapters. Some universities have their own Alumni Engagement groups or Offices of Advancement that will allow for further connection with alumni and donors of the university.
• The Vice President of Finance should take charge of reaching out and promoting these connections with the university. Ask about a gift or donation account that could be used to offer tax-deductible (as applicable) donations to your chapter.
STEP 3: ACT
• The Vice President of Finance, or a similar individual, should monitor activities throughout the year and keep up-to-date information on your chapter’s finances.
• Motivate your chapter’s members to facilitate fundraising activities that support your chapter’s Program of Leadership.
STEP 4: BUDGET
• Work with your officer team early to prepare financial spreadsheets and budget your chapters. Knowing how much you need to spend allows your chapter to begin fundraising early to expand those efforts.
Educational Conferences
Getting ready to attend a Collegiate DECA educational conference consists of two main elements: preparing for competition and preparing for the overall experience. Competing can be stressful, so it’s important to be as prepared as possible before competition day to help you perform your best. From online resources to competitive event workshops, repetition and familiarity are key to being confident in yourself and your content. Here are some tips and resources for you to utilize.
PREPARE FOR COMPETITION
Check deca.org for sample case studies and exams from previous years.
• Encourage members to carefully review all guidelines for their chosen competition(s). Competitive events are updated occasionally, so make sure to review the guidelines in the Collegiate DECA Guide each year
• Host a competitive event preparation workshop.
• Before members choose their event(s), host a meeting to preview the different types of competitive events.
• Make sure members know the differences in competitive events between the high school and collegiate divisions if they are former high school DECA members.
• Have experienced members, professors or business professionals volunteer as judges for a mock competition.
deca.org/collegecompete
PREPARE FOR THE EXPERIENCE
Conferences are the perfect opportunity to network and see what it’s like to communicate with others in a business setting before entering the workforce. Experiencing a conference is what you make of it. Be open to meeting new people and put your best foot forward to leave a lasting impression.
• Prepare clean, polished and professional clothing (first impressions matter!).
• Review and practice effective communication best practices.
• Practice your self-introduction with peers, friends and family.
• Prepare a meeting to cover Networking 101 with your chapter members. Topics may include proper handshakes, memorable introductions and how to carry on interesting conversations.
deca.org/collegeconferences
Communications
Like many other student organizations, Collegiate DECA is centered around networking and communication. To gain the most out of the organization, it’s important to properly communicate at the local, association and international levels.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Here are some tips on how to gain the most social media interaction with all levels of Collegiate DECA.
Branding Resource Center:
• Check out content templates to use for promotional material for your chapter
• Request a customized chapter logo
• View the branding guidelines when using DECA’s brand
• deca.org/brand
Individual Members:
• Follow and interact with posts on the @collegiatedeca Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and TikTok accounts.
• Build your network by connecting with other Collegiate DECA members and officers—both in your chapter and beyond.
Chapters:
• Share chapter meetings reminders, agendas and recaps.
• Raise awareness of chapter events, recruitment efforts and fundraisers.
• Spotlight your members.
• Celebrate chapter accomplishments.
ONE DIAMOND CALLS
Join monthly One Diamond calls hosted by the Collegiate DECA Executive Officer Team. The calls provide an opportunity to interact with members around the world while you learn tips and tricks, discover resources and share best practices. If your chapter has expertise on a specific topic, contact the Executive Officer team about an opportunity to present at a call.
deca.org/onediamond
PRESIDENTS COUNCIL CALL
Association and chapter presidents can join the quarterly Presidents Council Calls designed to empower you with the tools, insights and connections you need to lead with confidence and drive your chapter to success. Join a community of passionate leaders, share your vision and collaborate on innovative strategies to elevate your members’ Collegiate DECA experience.
Having a strong Collegiate DECA chapter during the school year requires proactive planning during the summer. Follow this step-by-step guide to set your chapter up for success and maximize your impact during the academic year.
STEP 1: CONNECT WITH YOUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
During the summer, reach out to the motivated students who were elected or appointed to serve on your chapter’s leadership team. Work together to create an action plan for the upcoming year. Identify what has worked well in the past, what challenges you’ve faced, and what your team would like to improve. Encourage each member to bring unique perspectives and skills to the table.
STEP 2: CONNECT WITH DECA INC.
Reach out to DECA Inc. and the Collegiate DECA Executive Officer Team to confirm your chapter’s registration and receive important updates. Use the summer to familiarize yourself with the resources, webinars, and support available through the organization.
deca.org/collegeofficers
STEP 3: CONNECT WITH SCHOOL STUDENT LEADERSHIP, ASSOCIATION AND COLLEGIATE DECA EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Establish relationships with your school’s student leadership, state/provincial Collegiate DECA leadership (if applicable), and the Collegiate DECA Executive Officers. The involvement center at your school can provide additional resources and support to help promote your chapter’s events and activities. Building these connections will increase your chapter’s visibility and strengthen your support network.
STEP 4: DEVELOP A CHAPTER CALENDAR
Create a comprehensive chapter calendar for the upcoming year. Include planned meetings, workshops, training sessions, competitions, social events, key deadlines and any other activities. Share the calendar with all members to ensure everyone is aware of the chapter’s schedule.
deca.org/calendar
STEP 5: SECURE FUNDING AND SPONSORSHIPS
During the summer, start seeking funding and sponsorships to support your chapter’s activities throughout the year. Approach local businesses, alumni networks, and other potential sponsors, presenting a compelling proposal that highlights the benefits of supporting your chapter.
STEP 6: PLAN A SUMMER LEADERSHIP RETREAT
Organize a summer leadership retreat for your chapter’s newly formed leadership team. This retreat provides an opportunity for team bonding, goal-setting, and strategic planning for the year ahead. Include team-building activities, leadership workshops, and discussions to create a unified vision for the chapter.
STEP 7: DESIGN MARKETING MATERIALS
Create visually appealing marketing materials to promote your Collegiate DECA chapter. Use posters, flyers, social media graphics and promotional videos to reach a wider audience. Ensure branding is consistent across all materials, using DECA’s Brand Resource Center for templates and resources.
deca.org/brand
STEP 8: HOST VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSIONS
Organize virtual information sessions for incoming students during the summer. Use online platforms to introduce DECA, share success stories and showcase the opportunities available to members. Answer questions and encourage sign-ups.
STEP 9: DEVELOP RECRUITMENT STRATEGIES
Brainstorm creative strategies to attract new members for the upcoming year. Collaborate with other student organizations, host virtual social events, and reach out directly to incoming first-year students.
decadirect.org/membership-recruitment
at your chapter’s events. Reach out to them in advance and schedule visits or virtual guest speaker sessions. Guest speakers provide valuable real-world insights for chapter members.
STEP 11: CREATE TRAINING MATERIALS
Develop training materials for your members. These materials could cover Collegiate DECA competition guidelines, presentation skills, leadership development and industry-specific knowledge. Having these materials ready will streamline the preparation of members for competitive events and leadership roles.
STEP 12: ORGANIZE FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Plan and host fundraising events to generate financial support for your chapter. Consider online campaigns, merchandise sales or virtual competitions to engage members and the community.
decadirect.org/fundraising
and involve them in your chapter’s activities. Alumni can offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and even financial support, which will enrich the experience for your current members.
STEP 14: STAY ACTIVE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Keep your chapter’s social media accounts active during the summer. Regularly share updates about upcoming events, recruitment efforts, and other exciting news. Use social media to build anticipation and keep potential members engaged.
STEP 15: CONDUCT MEMBER SURVEYS
Distribute surveys to gather feedback from members. Use their responses to identify strengths and areas for improvement and apply this feedback when planning future chapter activities.
By actively engaging in these steps throughout the summer, your Collegiate DECA chapter will build a strong foundation for the year ahead. Planning, recruiting, and connecting with others will contribute to a thriving chapter.
Month-by-Month Calendar
This calendar will provide you with an overview of month-by-month activities for your chapter.
SEPTEMBER
• Recruit: Hit the ground running with an innovative membership recruitment campaign.
• Promote: Utilize social media, posters around campus, online newsletters, and events to spread the word.
• First Meeting: Introduce Collegiate DECA to new members, set expectations for the upcoming year and preview upcoming conferences and opportunities.
OCTOBER
• Get Social: Capture important moments and activities to post on social media as you gain a following.
• Fundraise: Start fundraising to support upcoming chapter activities and conferences.
• Engage Registration: Register for Collegiate DECA’s Engage Conference held in November.
• Leadership Passport: Develop plans for your chapter’s Leadership Passport application and help members prepare to earn the Individual Leadership Passport.
NOVEMBER
• DECA Month: Follow the #DECAMonth calendar to know what’s coming up this month. Be sure to post on social media and tag @collegiatedeca.
• Challenges: Compete in the Virtual Case Simulation and Collegiate DECA Stock Market Game
DECEMBER
• Plan Ahead: Once finals have ended, meet with your officer team to review your chapter’s program of leadership and plan for the next semester.
• Scholarships: Encourage your members to finalize their DECA scholarship applications which are due in January.
JANUARY
• Winter Break: Stay active on social media and engage with members as you prepare for the next semester.
• Welcome Back: Plan a fun welcome back meeting, introduce your semester activities and build excitement for the second half of the year.
• Competition: Begin preparing members for competition by organizing a mock competition, hosting training sessions and sharing tips and tricks.
FEBRUARY
• ICDC Registration: All Collegiate DECA members must be on your chapter’s membership roster by February 15 to be eligible to compete at ICDC.
• Leadership Passport: Ensure your chapter and individual members have their Leadership Passport Program applications complete.
MARCH
• Competition Practice: Have members present to your chapter members and guests who can evaluate and provide valuable feedback to improve.
• ICDC Fundraising: Host a chapter fundraiser to support members traveling to ICDC.
APRIL
• ICDC Preparation: Be on the lookout for Collegiate DECA ICDC online competitive event testing and prepared event submissions.
• Farewell Meeting: Plan a fun last meeting to celebrate achievements, recognize graduating members and get feedback to implement for the next school year.
• Leadership Transitions: Elect next year’s leadership team, hold transition meetings, and begin developing a Program of Leadership.
Chapter Resources
Use these Collegiate DECA resources to stay in the know as you support your chapter.
COLLEGIATE DECA GUIDE
The Collegiate DECA Guide is your year-long resource for Collegiate DECA’s programs, including information to start your year, Leadership Passport Program guidelines, challenge guidelines and competitive events guidelines.
deca.org/collegeguide
COLLEGIATE DECA DIRECT WEEKLY
Collegiate DECA Direct Weekly is the Collegiate DECA newsletter for members and advisors. Sign up today to get Collegiate DECA news, information and resources delivered to your inbox every Tuesday.
decadirect.org/collegiate
DECA DIRECT ONLINE
DECA Direct Online is your one-stop information destination for all things Collegiate DECA. In addition to all the latest Collegiate DECA news, you’ll find chapter resources, competition tips, career advice and chapter success stories.
decadirect.org/collegiate
DECA WEBSITE
Access all the Collegiate DECA key information. You’ll find educational conference details, competitive event guidelines, calendars, helpful resources and more.
