WCHS DECA Celebrates Alumni Achievements During National DECA Month

Highlighting the Success Stories of Three Distinguished Alumni.

November marks a special time for the Virginia and National Associations of DECA, known as “DECA Month,” when the focus turns to celebrating the achievements of past members. This year, Warren County High School (WCHS) DECA takes pride in honoring the accomplishments of three notable alumni: Halea (Hose) Jakobsen (2020), Cris Sandoval (2019), and David Kelly (2019). Their stories exemplify the impact of DECA on shaping futures.

Halea (Hose) Jakobsen (2020)

Halea (Hose) Jakobsen (2020): A dedicated member of WCHS DECA for three years, Halea’s DECA journey included placing twice in district competition and participating in the Virginia DECA State Leadership Conference with projects supporting the Wounded Warrior Project and bullying prevention. The COVID-19 pandemic curtailed her opportunity to compete at the National DECA conference (ICDC) in 2020. As a DECA member, Halea also served as the chapter’s Reporter. Post-graduation, she pursued an apprenticeship in cosmetology, successfully earning her license, and is currently working towards an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration at LRCC. Today, Halea is a proud hair salon owner and attributes her business aspirations and goal-setting abilities to her DECA experience.

Cris Sandoval (2019)

Cris Sandoval (2019): During her three-year tenure in WCHS DECA, Cris served as Chapter Reporter and secured a 1st place victory twice in district competition. Her efforts led her team to a 4th place finish in a financial literacy project, qualifying them for the National DECA conference. Cris embarked on two accounting internships after completing her education at LRCC and Shenandoah University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a concentration in Accounting. She is now working with an accounting firm in Winchester, VA. Cris credits DECA with shaping her career path, boosting her confidence, preparing her for public speaking, and embracing new challenges.

David Kelly (2019)

David Kelly (2019): As a two-year member, David actively competed in DECA events, securing top placements and qualifying for national competitions. He served as Vice-President of Finance in his senior year. David’s educational journey took him to Shenandoah University, where he majored in Sports Management and Business Administration, also participating in the golf team. Currently, David holds the position of Director of Tournament Operations at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club. He attributes his public speaking skills and understanding of the importance of networking in marketing to his DECA experience.

Sophia Logan, the 2023 DECA Chapter President, expressed immense pride in these alumni, recognizing their significant contributions to the chapter during their high school years and continued success beyond WCHS.

The stories of Halea, Cris, and David serve as inspiring examples of how DECA can influence and shape the lives of its members, guiding them toward successful careers and personal development. WCHS DECA, in celebrating these alumni during National DECA Month, highlights the enduring impact of this organization in fostering the skills and confidence necessary for future achievements.