Become an Advocate with the MDA Disability Is Diversity Challenge

Sep 1, 2023

Submissions due by February 16, 2024

The MDA Disability Is Diversity Challenge provides an opportunity for participants to create a focused presentation that highlights the obstacles and experiences of navigating an educational environment with differing abilities. The goal is to learn first-hand about the barriers encountered by a student with a disability and determine how you can advocate for needed change within your community. Work in teams of up to four DECA members to pitch your strategy and share the results of the activation in a four-minute video presentation.

Recognition

The top three teams will be recognized on DECA Direct Online and be recognized on stage during DECA’s International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, CA.

Challenge Timeline:

  • Challenge Begins: October 2, 2023
  • Challenge Submission Deadline: February 16, 2024
  • Top 3 Teams Announced:  March 8, 2024
  • Top 3 Teams Travel to ICDC: April 27-30, 2024*

*Eligibility to attend DECA’s ICDC is determined by the chartered association advisor based on their rules and regulations. Finalists should consult with their chartered association advisor for eligibility guidelines and gain approval from their chapter advisor to attend the conference.

Questions?

Christy Rutherford
Education Manager
christy@deca.org

Christy Rutherford is DECA's education manager. She enhances and manages an educational framework for DECA’s comprehensive learning program ensuring that all student programs are aligned to National Curriculum Standards. Christy also leads the advisor professional learning series and programs to support local chapter advisors.

Discussion Questions

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Classroom Connection

Career CLuster:

Instructional Area(s):

Performance Indicators:

Demonstrate clear understanding of chosen disability
Document and clearly express obstacles encountered and areas that need improvement
Develop, implement and evaluate an effective advocacy plan