ARIZONA DECA
CELEBRATING 65 YEARS
OF PREPARING
EMERGING LEADERS AND
ENTREPRENEURS IN ARIZONA
DECA THEME
Since its inception in 1961, Arizona DECA has pursued the mission of inspiring its members across the region to become the “NEXT BIG THING” in their schools, careers, and communities. Through rigorous competitive events that cultivate leadership, innovation, and professional expertise, and through community-centered experiences that reinforce ethical decision-making and service, DECA empowers members to think boldly and act with purpose. By challenging students to identify emerging opportunities, embrace new ideas, and develop solutions to real-world problems, DECA provides a platform for future leaders to transform potential into impact. Arizona DECA equips its members not only to succeed in their personal and professional endeavors, but also to become the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers shaping the future.
LET'S TALK
ABOUT DECA!
ABOUT US
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Arizona DECA - a Career and Technical Student Organization that engages and equips students in high schools and colleges throughout the state - was chartered by the Arizona Department of Education in 1961 as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
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Throughout Arizona DECA's history, tens of thousands of students have passed through the program on their journey to become the next generation of business leaders. Giving students the resources and tools they need to succeed, a legion of teachers and administrators dedicate their passion for education to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.
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Because of DECA, students are able to become college and career-ready faster than their peers. Nearly 88% of DECA members report that their personal DECA experience connected school to the real world and 95% of DECA members report that they gained more skills in public speaking and problem solving. Many of our professional conferences attract prestigious companies and educational institutions like Marriott International and Arizona State University's W.P. Carey School of Business, who attend to recruit simply because DECA students are a highly-motivated group of rising stars looking to own their future.
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1961
Year Established
97
Chapters
5,852
Active Members
COLLEGIATE DECA
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Arizona Collegiate DECA provides students of the state's top colleges and universities with the professional development skills, networking connections, and confidence to enter the workplace. The second step on the DECA journey, Collegiate DECA ensures students are ready to meet the challenges of free enterprise in the modern world. Reaching their limitless potential, Collegiate DECA students redefine excellence.
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CONTACT US
CONTACT
INFORMATION
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Daniel Poffinbarger, Arizona DECA Executive Director
(602)542-5354​
Mailing Address
1535 West Jefferson Street. Bin 42
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
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Arizona DECA Financial Services
P.O. Box 1440
Owasso, Oklahoma 74055
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