By Emma Henselin | University of Wisconsin - Madison, WI
Wisconsin Collegiate DECA has focused on engagement and growth this academic year. We increased both events and attendance at every association conference this year.
Here are some key tips for success.
1. Start With a Culture People Want to Join
Before you can grow outward, you have to grow inward. Strong engagement and retention are the foundation of chapter expansion. When members feel connected and supported, they talk about it with their friends. Wisconsin encourages members to get to know each other’s names and to create a welcoming environment that helps both new and current members feel confident.
2. Build Signature Engagement Events
Every association needs events or experiences that members look forward to and talk about long after they are over. These events foster a sense of belonging and help define our association. Some examples we recommend are alumni panels, a fall conference, member and chapter spotlights and chapter socials. These events help retain members and create stories that attract potential new chapters.
3. Show Up Where Potential Chapters Already Are
New chapters don’t just pop out of thin air; they come from already established schools. Taking the time to reach out to business schools across the state that align with your association’s long-term goals is a great place to start. Visit campuses and host info sessions with potential schools to build curiosity that can lead to conversations about beginning chapters.
4. Make It Easy for New Chapters to Say Yes
The biggest barrier to starting a chapter is limited resources. Provide chapter resources to help them get started. Create a start-a-chapter guide that includes recruitment templates, advisor onboarding materials and similar competitive prep resources.
5. Let Member Voices Lead the Way
Student voices are one of the most powerful tools. Their stories, achievements, memories and enthusiasm are often what convince a school to start a chapter and new members to join the organization. Give students opportunities to share their stories through member spotlights, testimonials and student-led presentations. When prospective chapters hear directly from members, the impact is stronger.
6. Listen and Celebrate
Engagement and expansion thrive when members feel heard and appreciated. Feedback isn’t just a retention strategy — it’s a growth strategy. As an association, we open the floor for anonymous feedback after every conference. Additionally, after each conference, we celebrate all the members who won, whether big or small.
