By Lisaura Garcia—

DECA officers and advisors attended the NJDECA Colt Conference at the Boys and Girls Club of Clifton, New Jersey, on October 17th. At this conference the Northern Region DECA officers gained leadership skills needed to facilitate DECA activities throughout this school year. Advisors also gained valuable professional development. All the activities were not only fun but very informative.

DECA officers were welcomed by state officers and then introduced to motivational speaker Keith Hawkins of Real Inspirations, Inc. Hawkins helped to customize the DECA program to help local chapters of the organization. “He really is able to connect on a personal level with everyone who hears him speak,” said Senior Lisaura Garcia, “He speaks with conviction, purpose, and passion.” More than a motivational speaker, Hawkins also entertained his audience, by inspiring them to make changes in themselves, their education and their career.

Lisaura Garcia, Nakayla Lloyd, and Ana Mestre pose for a picture during a break for breakfast. Photo by staff

Attendees from Ridgewood, Fairlawn, Leonia and Vernon High School attended this meeting, and were able to meet with each other. They completed various team building activities to get to know people from other schools. “Getting to know members of DECA from other schools allowed us to see how DECA positively affects the lives of students around New Jersey,” said Senior Ana Mestre.