The sound of pacing students and practicing voices is what filled the rooms at Texas DECA State Career and Development Conference. Coppell High School’s chapter participated with 206 competitors, 31 finalists and 18 advancements to internationals.
At Hilton Anatole in Dallas on Friday and Saturday, Coppell High School DECA competed against 7,000 students, a record number of attendees.
The top 10 chapters from all the competing schools were named, with Coppell making the top 10 out of more than 200 chapters. Lake Travis claimed the top chapter position.
According to Coppell DECA advisor Richard Chamberlain, several factors contributed to the ranking.
“It was affected by our growth in membership and some of the campaigns that we’ve done,” Chamberlain said. “We’re always working hard even with CHS9 and I’m proud that we were able to make it into the top 10.”
After state competitions, winners advance to DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC). On April 26-29 in Orlando, Fla., DECA holds its biggest DECA competition of the year, with CHS sending 18 qualifiers.
At the state competition, Coppell seniors Navya Singh and Yashitha Chunduru won Texas DECA scholarships for $1,000.
“It means a lot that DECA saw the leadership and dedication I’ve always put into this program,” Singh said. “I always pour in so much time and getting scholarship money means a lot because it is great news for paying off student debt in college.”
Being a district officer and a three-time international qualifier, Singh has always been dedicated to DECA, setting standards for all members.
“I’ve given a lot of time and effort into the organization as a competitor and leader,” Singh said. “I’m a part of chapter leadership, and DECA as a whole is an opportunity to enhance my career skills, networking connections and social skills.”
A Coppell ISD record of 31 finalists were awarded from this year’s competition.
“State is becoming more and more competitive,” Chamberlain said. “Getting through from state to internationals with the very high achieving and motivated students in the chapters, those who were able to advance are the best of the best from both Coppell High School and within the state.”
Follow Raima (@RaimaAAwan) and @CHSCampusNews on X.
