By Wilsey Zahner, @deca.wilsey | Tolland High School, CT
In DECA, creating an inclusive and accepting environment is the cornerstone of success within a chapter. For members to thrive, they need to feel seen, heard, and, most importantly, welcomed.
Here are a few simple but powerful ways to build that kind of culture in your chapter:
Seating Matters
No member should ever feel unsure about where to sit at a meeting. Whether it's a classroom, auditorium, or virtual meeting, chapter officers can make a big impact by ensuring there's always a welcoming seat for everyone. Assigning "greeters" or pairing up new members with DECA buddies are easy ways to make sure no one is left out.
Tip: Need to create groups at the start of a meeting? Hand out randomly-assorted colored cards as members walk in the door. Assign a different color to each table - this way, members know exactly where to sit and no one is left on the outskirts.
Open and Respectful Communication
Members should feel comfortable talking to their officers, sharing ideas, and asking questions. Setting a tone of respect from the top down ensures that only kind, constructive communication is encouraged. Simple reminders at meetings, such as “DECA is a no-judgment zone,” can go a long way.
Tip: Set up a suggestion box. Whether it’s physical or posted online, having an anonymous platform for members to share thoughts, concerns, and ideas provides a safe space for those who are not yet ready to speak up in a meeting.
Inclusive Meeting Ideas
When planning events, activities, and themes, consider the diversity of your chapter. Do your meeting ideas reflect a variety of cultures, interests, and backgrounds? Are there ways to spotlight different perspectives and stories throughout the year? Inclusivity can show up in everything from icebreakers to guest speakers.
Tip: Run a focus group! One of the best ways to gauge what your members want to see is to ask them directly. This ensures that meetings reflect the diverse interests and identities of your entire chapter, not just the loudest voices.
Inclusivity doesn’t happen by accident - it’s something your chapter develops at every meeting, activity, and conference. By creating a positive chapter culture, you’re setting the stage for your members to truly thrive—and #GoTheExtra—this school year.
