Every March, Women’s History Month allows us to celebrate the achievements, resilience and impact of women across industries and communities. Within DECA, this celebration feels especially meaningful. Walk into any chapter meeting or conference, and you will see young women stepping forward as competitors, innovators, mentors and leaders.
Leadership has not always felt equally accessible to everyone. In many professional spaces, women have historically faced barriers to having their ideas heard or their leadership recognized.
Today, organizations like DECA are helping change that narrative by inspiring young women to lead early, build confidence and discover their potential long before they enter the workforce. For many members, the impact begins with simply being surrounded by other strong women in leadership roles.
Here are some current women in DECA paving their paths:
Perry Kazaz, Nevada DECA VP of Hospitality (2026-2027), shares, “DECA has put me on a journey that has shown me all the different ways I can be a leader within my community, and in a world where leadership can feel very male-dominated, this organization encourages me to take risks in leadership. Within Nevada DECA, I have seen so many strong female leaders who have pushed me to make sure that not only my voice is heard, but others are too. As a chapter officer, I've worked to make sure my members feel safe and heard within their community, and want to bring that same goal into my new role as a Nevada DECA state officer.”
Ellie Spraug, Delaware DECA VP of Hospitality (2025-2026) and VP of Leadership (2026-2027), shares: “DECA has given me an outlet to express my ideas and gain confidence. Most of all, I have met some of my best friends and have been surrounded by the best people!”
Brie Proulx, New Hampshire DECA State Officer (2026-2027), shares, “In DECA, I’ve taken opportunities that I never imagined myself even being in, or even having the reach within. I haven’t let the fear of failure stop me, and I take it as a lesson. DECA teaches you how to keep going, maintain this drive, and never give up. DECA will shape you for the better, empowering you. You learn how much power and strength you have, and the potential to only grow.”
The leadership skills developed in DECA extend far beyond conferences and competitions. Women who lead in DECA go on to become entrepreneurs, executives, educators and changemakers in countless industries.
Women’s History Month reminds us that progress is made when individuals are encouraged to step forward, take risks and support one another. DECA continues to play a powerful role in that progress by creating spaces where young women can discover their voices, build confidence and lead with purpose.
