DECA Students Receive High Honors

Lockport High School proudly announced the achievements of four outstanding students who traveled to Anaheim, California, to participate in DECA's International Career Development Conference. DECA is an organization dedicated to preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management, and the LHS DECA club is in its 16th year, boasting 69 members.

The four students who qualified for this prestigious event are Alexia Kilroy, Griffin Adams, Jadyn Beshaw, and Jocelyn Velazquez, each exemplifying the leadership qualities that DECA promotes.

Alexia Kilroy, a senior, achieved remarkable success by placing in the top 10 in the entire country in her event at the conference. She competed in the Principles of Business Management (PBM) competition, which included a 100-question exam and a role-play interview. Kilroy secured her place at the international level by placing sixth in PBM at the DECA state competition in Rochester, earning an overall top 10 spot. Her outstanding performance at the international conference brought great pride to LCSD and the LHS community.

Griffin Adams, another senior, was chosen to serve as a delegate in the Aspire Emerging Leader Series due to his active involvement in DECA and his top 10 placement at the state conference. This series aims to fast-track students toward college and career success.

Juniors Jocelyn Velazquez and Jadyn Beshaw were selected as delegates for the Ignite Emerging Leader Series, reflecting their strong participation in DECA and top 10 placements at the state conference.

Jill DiTullio, LHS business teacher and DECA adviser, praised the students, stating, “All four of these individuals are exceptional. They all possess true leadership qualities and they want to strive for that next level. Their journey to Anaheim showcases their personal accomplishments and reflects the collective achievements of DECA at LHS.”