DECA (previously known as Delta Epsilon Chi and Distributive Education Clubs of America) consists of over 100 emerging leaders and entrepreneurs at Millbrook. It is practiced across the country as a preparation for college and career paths. DECA prepares leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing by educating them on how they can improve their abilities to think like and act like leaders.

 The DECA district competition was attended by members who competed on November 30, 2016. The district competition is an event that members have the opportunity to participate in each year. This year’s competition had 98 members in DECA participating. It was held at the Raleigh Convention Center and lasted all day. Austin Yeates, a member of DECA said, “I competed in the principles of marketing event. You have 15 minutes to plan for your roleplay based on the scenario given to you which can be about anything. After the 15 minutes, you meet with your judge. The roleplay starts as soon as you greet your judge and can be short or long, depending on how much detail you go into.”

 Many members won medals for their outstanding performances at districts. Some won trophies as well. Trophy winners include seniors Justin Miller and Grafton Potter, getting second place together for a sports and entertainment team event, and senior Thomas Armstrong, also getting second place, but for a principles of marketing event. Senior Jackson Hall got seventh place for a principles of marketing event, and senior Emma DeMartino got third place for an apparel and accessories marketing event. Seniors Lilly Hyde and Shaun Gillie got first place together for a travel and tourism event.

 According to deca.org, more than 90% of DECA members across the country say that their experience with DECA improved their ability to be more effective learners and to connect school with the real world. Nearly 80% of members say that DECA helped them to understand the importance and benefit of community service. Millbrook’s DECA is going to states in Greensboro for a three day event in March now that they have competed in districts. If members place in the top three, they will be qualified to go to internationals in Anaheim, California. If members win there, scholarships for business can be won. Members meet in rooms 1902 and 1906 every Thursday. This after school activity is currently one of the most actively participated in at Millbrook.