About NJ DECA

With nearly a 70-year history, DECA has impacted the lives of more than ten million students, educators, school administrators and business professionals since it was founded in 1946. Their strong connection with our organization has resonated into a brand that people identify as a remarkable experience in the preparation of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. DECA’s programs and activities have constantly evolved as we use the latest technology and apply cutting edge educational research. Our core focus has remained consistent and is captured in our mission.Our Mission is to prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.DECA, Inc. is organized into two unique student divisions each with programs designed to address the learning styles, interest and focus of its members. The High School Division includes 200,000 members in 3,500 schools. The Collegiate Division includes over 15,000 members in 275 colleges and universities.  DECA Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit student organization with more than 215,000 members in all 50 United States, the District of Columbia, Canada, China, Germany, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Spain. The United States Congress, the United States Department of Education and state, district and international departments of education authorize DECA’s programs.

New Jersey DECA is organized under the auspices of the New Jersey Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education.  NJ DECA is managed by Kean University’s College of Business and Public Management under a grant from NJ DOE.  There are currently over 10,000 members across New Jersey in nearly 120 high schools.  Operationally, the program’s day to day management is the responsibility of the State Advisor and Executive Director, Dr, Jeffrey Victor.

DECA’s Comprehensive Learning Program Integrates into Classroom Instruction:

  • An integral component of classroom instruction, DECA activities provide authentic, experiential learning methods to prepare members for college and careers.
  • Applies Learning – DECA members put their knowledge into action through rigorous project-based activities that require creative solutions with practical outcomes.
  • Connects to Business – Partnerships with businesses at local and broader levels provide DECA members realistic insight into industry and promote meaningful, relevant learning.
  • Promotes Competition – As in the global economy, a spark of competition drives DECA members to excel and improve their performance.

DECA prepares the next generation to be:

  • Academically Prepared – DECA members are ambitious, high-achieving leaders equipped to conquer the challenges of their aspirations.
  • Community Oriented – Recognizing the benefit of service and responsibility to the community, DECA members continually impact and improve their local and broader communities.
  • Professionally Responsible – DECA members are poised professionals with ethics, integrity and high standards.
  • Experienced Leaders-  DECA members are empowered through experience to provide effective leadership through goal setting, consensus building and project implementation.