This year marks an exciting milestone for the College of the Holy Cross: the launch of its newly established Collegiate DECA chapter, advised by Rob Murner, director of the Ciocca Center. In its first year, the club made an impressive debut, quickly building momentum and earning recognition on both the regional and international stage.
The journey began at regionals hosted at Stonehill College, where five freshmen qualified for the International Career Development Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Competing against senior marketing majors despite all being liberal arts majors rather than business students, their qualification was particularly impressive. For each of them, it was a first experience at an international conference. Representing Holy Cross on an international stage, they brought energy, professionalism, and ambition, contributing to the College’s growing presence within the DECA community.
At the conference, students competed in role plays, where they were asked to analyze business case studies and present solutions to a judge under time pressure. Topics included areas such as marketing management and business ethics, and competitors were challenged to think critically, communicate clearly, and respond professionally. After each event, judges offered constructive feedback, helping students better understand their strengths and where they could improve.
Beyond the competition, the conference gave students the chance to network with peers from different states and colleges, exchange ideas, and form connections with other students interested in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The experience extended beyond the competition itself. Held in Louisville during Derby season, the trip allowed members to explore the city and experience its energy, further strengthening connections within the team.
Ultimately, the success of these five freshmen is more than an impressive milestone. It is a signal of what’s to come. In just one year, Holy Cross DECA has gone from a new chapter to a nationally recognized presence. With momentum building and interest growing, this is only the beginning.
Congratulations to the members who competed!
Connor Duffy ’29
Maximilian Meisel ’29
Nathan Rezk ’29
Paige Ringuette ’29
Taylor Twomey ’29
Written by Curran Deehan ’28