ICDC in Atlanta

Hey Michigan DECA!

I got home a few days ago from the International Career Development Conference in Atlanta, GA. It was an intense mix of emotions ranging from devastation and disappointment to exhilaration and simple love for DECA. I had the privilege of managing the campaign for my close friend Eric Anderson, who is the state president of Indiana DECA and ran for Central Region Vice-president. He had an awesome theme: “Go the Distance” and the other outgoing officers and I were able to rock some togas at his Greek-inspired booth. It was so much fun to set up caucuses and watch him do an amazing job. Unfortunately, he lost to Isaac from MIssouri. When I wasn’t helping with his campaign, I was able to check out the Coke and CNN headquarters, the Georgia aquarium and zoo, and a little bit of the botanical gardens, and of course attend the opening and awards sessions. My favorite part of the conference was simply being able to spend an entire week with Brook and Kellie, the other outgoing state officers. It was also great to meet up with everyone from other states/provinces that I have met in the last two years… unfortunately, that also meant I had to say good-bye to all of these amazing people. The waterworks were definitely turned on starting Tuesday and haven’t exactly stopped…they have slowed down, but I am not sure I will ever be completely over being done with DECA. I did meet a few other members who are also going to Loyola University in Chicago, so that will make it easier to start a Delta Epsilon Chi chapter there. I am excited to get back into competition. Obviously, another highlight was Billy Gilman. I mean, who isn’t in love with him? Luke Christie, a freshman with muscular dystrophy also spoke at the opening session. It was so touching…what an amazing person. Way to go MI DECA for raising over $60,000 this year for the MDA…keep up the good work next year! And congratulations to all of the Michigan DECA members who made it on stage. What an incredible accomplishment! I definitely saw quite a few of you getting in the top 10, and we even had some third, second, and first placers. I am so proud of you guys and everyone who attended ICDC. I will miss you all so much…add me on facebook, of course! I want to keep in touch.

Court

(former) state president