WCHS DECA Members Shine at District Conference, 11 Students Advance to State Competition

On November 20, 2024, Warren County High School (WCHS) saw 47 of its DECA members showcase their talent and determination at the VA DECA District 9 Leadership Conference. Held at the Apple Blossom Mall in Winchester, Virginia, the event attracted some of the most driven young business leaders from across the region. Competing in a variety of events ranging from finance to marketing, the WCHS team delivered an outstanding performance.

Pictured (L – R), Front: J. Navarrete, B. Taylor, S. Deslongchamps, S. Bryner. 2nd Row: J. Abril, J. Strickler, N. Pullen, K. Wiles, & A. Lamas Sanchez.

Eleven WCHS students earned top-four placements in their respective categories, securing a coveted spot at the VA DECA State Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach this coming March.

District Winners Advancing to State:

• Nathaniel Pullen: 1st Place, Personal Financial Literacy
• Joseph Abril: 2nd Place, Sports & Entertainment Marketing
• Sophia Bryner: 2nd Place, Job Interview
• Caden Monroe: 2nd Place, Accounting Applications
• Skylar Deslongchamps: 3rd Place, Principles of Hospitality & Tourism
• Kaylee Presgraves: 3rd Place, Principles of Entrepreneurship
• Jackson Strickler: 3rd Place, Principles of Finance
• Jared Navarrete: 4th Place, Principles of Business Management & Administration
• Arely Lamas-Sanchez: 4th Place, Marketing Communications
• Bre Taylor: 4th Place, Entrepreneurship
• Kiara Wiles: 4th Place, Human Resource Management

In addition, 22 other WCHS students placed in the Top 10 of their events, highlighting the team’s impressive overall performance.

This success reflects the students’ hard work, preparation, and the unwavering support of their advisors. The District 9 Conference provided participants with an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to practical challenges, building skills they’ll carry forward as they prepare for the state-level competition.

With their sights set on the VA DECA State Leadership Conference in March, the WCHS DECA team is eager to showcase their abilities on a larger stage. Their achievements at the district level set a strong foundation for continued growth and success, making their school and community proud.