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Desert Ridge's DECA Finds Success at State Conference

Holly Anderson
Three DECA students standing outside alongside their teacher

Desert Ridge High School’s DECA chapter joined more than 2,000 students from across Arizona at the State Career Development Conference (SCDC) on February 26, held at the Arizona Grand Resort.

Over the course of three days, students competed in one of 65 business and marketing events, attended workshops, and connected with other DECA members from around the state, all to qualify for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in April.

Desert Ridge had a strong showing, with five students earning finalist spots: Kaycee Cambell (Principles of Hospitality and Tourism), Logan Graef (Principles of Business Administration), Kenneth Reyes (Human Resources Management), Marlie Wells (Hotel and Lodging Management), and Bailey Jackson (Retail Merchandising).

Two of those finalists, Marlie Wells and Bailey Jackson, will advance to the international level, representing Highland at ICDC from April 25–28.

The success reflects the continued growth of the program, which added 10 new members this year. Advisors shared that seeing students compete and succeed at such a large-scale event was a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

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