About DECA - Arkansas DECA

OUR HISTORY

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

DECA began in the late 1930s and 1940s as local student clubs supporting youth in "distributive education". The national organization officially launched in 1947, and by 1948, the name Distributive Education Clubs of America was formally adopted alongside a national constitution.

As the organization expanded globally, the name was officially shortened to the standalone brand DECA in 1991, broadening its scope to encompass marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.

Today, DECA continues its legacy of preparing hundreds of thousands of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs worldwide for business success.

OUR STRUCTURE

DECA is organized into two unique student divisions each with programs designed to address the learning styles, interest and focus of its members. In 2025-2026, more than 322,000 DECA student members, teacher advisors, alumni and professionals around the globe.

DECA Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit student organization. The United States Congress, the United States Department of Education and state, district and international departments of education authorize DECA’s programs.

OUR MISSION

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Our guiding principles explain how we fulfill our mission by addressing what we do and the outcomes we expect.

Classroom Integration

DECA activities provide authentic, experiential learning methods to prepare members for college and careers.

Real-World Application

DECA members put their knowledge into action through rigorous project-based activities that require creative solutions with practical outcomes.

Community and Industry Connections

Partnerships with businesses at local and broader levels provide DECA members realistic insight into industry and promote meaningful, relevant learning.

Competitive Excellence

As in the global economy, a spark of competition drives DECA members to excel and improve their performance.

ATTRIBUTES AND VALUES

Our attributes and values describe DECA's priorities and standards. We value competence, innovation, integrity and teamwork.

OUR LOGO

DECA’s affinity for the diamond logo has resulted in five logos during the organization’s 75+ year history.