During this year's DECA ICDC in Orlando, members elected the leaders who will serve during the 2025-2026 school year. As the team prepares to Go The Extra this year, take a moment to learn more about the faces behind the blazers and the stories that led them here.
Read on to learn about the 2025-2026 Executive Officer Team!
How did you first get involved in DECA?
Asher: I joined DECA completely by accident. Looking for new ways to fill my time in high school, I enrolled in my school’s Intro to Business course. Unbeknownst to me, taking that class meant I had also joined my school’s DECA chapter. At first, I was terrified by the idea of competition. If it weren’t for the support of some incredible teachers (shoutout to Mr. Hemsworth), I never would have become so involved in this organization. But despite joining by accident, I quickly fell in love with DECA. It showed me that I can do difficult things, even the ones that once scared me. The more I challenged myself, the more I grew—and that’s when I realized DECA wasn’t something to merely fill my time; it was something that would shape who I am.
Cullen: My DECA story has an earlier beginning than most. Growing up, my dad was an advisor. Going to ICDC as a kid, I saw firsthand how impactful our organization is. Going into high school, I knew I wanted to join not just because of my previous experiences but also because of my passion for business.
Hannah: I got involved in DECA during my freshman year when I joined my high school’s Business/Finance CTE program. I knew I wanted a future in business, but I wasn’t sure what that looked like. Joining DECA opened up a world of opportunities. That same year, I won my event and competed at ICDC 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. That experience was incredibly transformative and set the stage for my passion and love for this organization.
Mason: Former Southern Region Vice President Hadley Brown walked into my classroom freshman year and personally invited me to our chapter’s beginning-of-the-year brunch. I was sold from the start by the inspiring atmosphere, and maybe the Chick-fil-A.
Praveena: Walking into that first chapter meeting was by complete accident. While I never expected to get so involved in an organization that I initially wasn’t planning on joining, there’s a reason I never turned back. The energy buzzing in the air during conferences, the travel experiences that created lifelong memories and the wonderful community I found myself in all influenced my decision to stay. I’m so endlessly grateful that I did.
Who's someone in your DECA journey who's inspired or motivated you?
Asher: Whenever I’m asked this question, one person always comes to mind—the incredible Nancy Muñoz. A former Nevada DECA President, I’m pretty sure I’m her number one fan. During our term together as association officers, Nancy showed me what genuine leadership is: a deep passion for others and an unwavering commitment to lifting people. I’ll never forget the number of times we walked into a room, and she remembered individual details about everyone—names, events, even random fun facts. It was impressive, borderline magical and constantly reminded me how much people matter.
Cullen: One person who inspired me in my DECA journey is the former Illinois DECA President, Minzie Choi. Minize not only led with passion but also with kindness. As a prospective association officer, Minzie not only guided me through the process but was also one of my biggest cheerleaders. Her dedication and leadership to our organization have inspired leaders across the state of Illinois.
Hannah: Someone in my DECA Journey who has inspired and motivated me is my former chapter advisor, Mr. Garland. His leadership has had a profound impact on my journey. From my first DECA competition to my role as NARVP, Mr. Garland has always been there, reminding me that I am capable of more than I ever imagined. His encouragement has taught me the importance of believing in others, creating opportunities for those around me and always leading with kindness. I would not be where I am today without his guidance, and I strive to embody his leadership style in everything I do. His unwavering belief in my capabilities has motivated me to strive for excellence and never to settle.
Mason: Markes Holmes Yarbrough, my incredible Tennessee DECA officer coach. His mentorship, encouragement and belief in my potential have truly shaped the leader I am today.
Praveena: I owe a lot of my personal growth in DECA to my former high school chapter advisor, Mrs. Petersen. Coming into DECA freshman year, Mrs. Petersen had seen potential in me, long before I could see it in myself. From chapter office, association office, to now, executive, she has encouraged me through it all, allowing me to believe in myself through the hardest moments. She has forever impacted my life, and because of that, I’ve often taken inspiration from her leadership style when I find myself in similar servant leadership positions.
What's your go-to caffeine order before a DECA event?
Asher: I may or may not sneak a Red Bull or two.
Cullen: Celsius non-carbonated Peach Green Tea.
Hannah: A Grande Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso.
Mason: Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks.
Praveena: Peach Mango Celsius or an Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso.
How has DECA influenced your goals for the future?
Asher: DECA has opened up a new world, where I can be so much more than I thought I was limited to. Upon becoming an association officer for Nevada DECA in 2023, I quickly realized that DECA, and all CTSOs, shape the future of their student members. Because of everything this organization has given me, I’ve decided I want to dedicate my career to assisting with managing CTSOs. Whether it’s through student leadership training or nonprofit consulting specifically aimed at CTSOs, I know I want to spend my future in organizations like DECA.
Cullen: DECA has influenced my life in so many ways. However, one way that DECA has impacted me the most is by shaping my career choices. Growing up, I was fascinated by the aviation industry, and that fascination didn’t stop in high school. DECA has allowed me to explore the operations and management within the travel and tourism industry, allowing me to dive deeper into industry trends and standards. Now, I’ll be majoring in Aviation Management, a degree that allows me to dive even further into the airline industry.
Hannah: DECA has influenced my future goals by showing me where my strengths and passions lie. As a freshman, I knew I wanted to pursue business. However, by competing in DECA role-plays, I learned that I thrive in fast-paced, problem-solving environments where I present solutions to business professionals. Because of that, I’ve discovered a strong interest in consulting, and I hope to pursue it someday.
Mason: DECA has shown me the power of leadership, communication and service. It’s helped me realize that I want to pursue a career where I can lead with purpose. Whether in business, public service or nonprofit leadership, I want to create opportunities for others to thrive.
Praveena: For as long as I could remember, I always knew that my heart was set on a career in medicine. While I look forward to fulfilling my dreams of working as a surgeon, DECA has broadened my horizons regarding what I want to accomplish. I hope to additionally join or create a startup, focusing on patient wellbeing and accessibility to healthcare, to help care for people on a national or maybe even international scale. Without DECA, I’m not sure if I would have ever been interested in the business side of healthcare!
If your DECA experience were a movie, what would the title be?
Asher: Ordinarily Extraordinary.
Cullen: Driven: The Action-Packed Thriller with Twists and Turns.
Hannah: One Yes at a Time.
Mason: The DECA Effect.
Praveena: Pitch Perfect: Finding My Voice.
What's your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
Asher: Definitely by going out to eat with my friends. There’s nothing more relaxing than sharing good food and even better conversation!
Cullen: After a busy week, I like to unwind with a late-night drive with my friends in search of a sweet treat.
Hannah: I love grabbing a sweet treat and watching Gilmore Girls! It’s cozy, comforting and the perfect reset after a long week.
Mason: Spending time with the people I love.
Praveena: As much as I love going out, I prefer staying in to relax, especially after a busy and tiring week! Usually, that means grabbing a sweet treat or cooking my favorite comfort food (like pasta) and getting comfortable on the couch to watch some Formula 1!
How do you think Gen Z will change the future of business?
Asher: I believe Gen Z leads with a profound sense of empathy, and I’m genuinely excited to see how that mindset shapes the future workforce. Social justice and a deep commitment to understanding others are at the forefront of many Gen Z minds—and I believe that will have a powerful impact on how this generation conducts business.
Cullen: Gen Z will change the future of business by enhancing digital platforms. We are the first generation to grow up with tablets and smartphones. Because of this, traditional retailers will have to become fully virtual in an effort to stay competitive.
Hannah: Gen Z is transforming business by bringing authenticity and creativity to the table. Whether it’s through TikTok or Instagram, we’re pushing companies to be more engaging, inclusive and transparent. Gen Z is not afraid to challenge tradition, which is exactly what innovation needs.
Mason: Gen Z is redefining what it means to lead with empathy, innovation and purpose. We value transparency, inclusion and social impact. We're not just building businesses; we're building movements that matter.
Praveena: I think Gen Z is changing the future of business by balancing empathy with sharp, logical thinking. We care deeply about people and values but also know how to analyze data and make smart decisions. Our access and impactful presence on digital platforms gives us a powerful voice and the tools to connect, organize and innovate globally. We use this blend to hold companies accountable, push for meaningful change and create solutions that aren’t just profitable but truly impactful.
If you could start a business or nonprofit, what would it be?
Asher: As I mentioned before, I want to work in the CTSO world for as long as possible. Launching my own consulting company aimed at helping nonprofits and mission-based organizations succeed in any way I can would be a dream.
Cullen: One non-profit I would want to start is an animal rescue. Growing up with rescue dogs my entire life, I’ve always wanted to get more involved with saving dogs and finding them their forever homes.
Hannah: If I could start any business, I’d start a personal style consulting business that helps people discover clothing, hair and makeup looks that align with their personality and make them look their best
Mason: Connection Coalition is a nonprofit dedicated to teen mental health. It offers real conversations, resources and support to help young people feel seen, heard and connected.
Praveena: In the future, I’ve always dreamed of having my own clinic or practice to provide personalized care, focusing on supporting families caring for medically complex loved ones, especially those in rural or financially challenged areas. As someone passionate about a healthcare career, I understand how demanding caregiving can be and how vital it is to offer trusted, compassionate support. And despite this being a lifelong dream, DECA has helped reinforce my passion for business in the healthcare industry!
What's one thing you want to check off your bucket list?
Asher: Ever since I was a kid, it’s been my dream to be cast on Big Brother or Survivor. Would I do well? Honestly… probably not. Would I get voted out first and still have the time of my life? Absolutely. So, if you happen to know a casting director for either show, call me!
Cullen: Staying in an overwater bungalow with a slide in the Maldives.
Hannah: Going on a big roller coaster (such as velocicoaster) since I’m terrified of them!
Mason: Skydiving.
Praveena: One thing I want to check off my bucket list is diving in the Great Barrier Reef. It’s so beautiful, and I could only imagine how stunning and vibrant it is underwater! Also, if I’m already there visiting, I would love to go skydiving over the GBR, specifically in Cairns or Mission Beach.
What's a fictional world you wish you could live in?
Asher: I like the idea of going to a wizarding school, with no math homework and you can use spells to do your chores.
Cullen: I would want to live in a fictional world with flying cars and teleportation for seamless travel.
Hannah: Barbie’s world!
Mason: Trolls. Who wouldn’t want to live in a world full of color, music and good vibes?
Praveena: I would love to live in the world of Alice in Wonderland!
