Stephens College DECA students earn top honors at International Competition
With four students placing at the Collegiate DECA International Career Development conference, Stephens College made a strong impression at the event, which brings together top competitors from across the country and around the world.
Seven students represented Stephens College in Louisville, Kentucky, competing in events including Digital Marketing Strategies, Fashion Marketing, Human Resource Management, Event Planning and Entrepreneurial Operations.
“Our students represented Stephens College extremely well,” said Stephens Collegiate DECA Chapter Advisor, Dr. Scott Taylor. “The level of competition at this conference is incredibly high, and their success reflects both their hard work and their ability to perform in high-pressure environments.”
Placing on the International Stage
Four students earned top placements, while three others qualified to compete after strong performances at the state level in February.
Students who placed include:
- Olivia Johnson and Sofia Jones – Top 10, Digital Marketing Strategies
- Kennedy Gaskin – Top 10, Fashion Marketing
- Dofay Jiang – Top Exam Performance, Human Resource Management
Students who qualified to compete at the conference:
- Eliza Stevens – Event Planning
- Karma Perry – Event Planning
- Viveca Malendziak – Entrepreneurial Operations
For Junior Kennedy Gaskin, placing in the Top 10 marked a personal milestone after falling short of qualifying last year.
“I was excited to participate, especially stepping into a leadership role as vice president in the chapter, and getting another chance to qualify,” Gaskin said. “Last year, I didn’t score high enough at state. I was disappointed, but I knew I could try again.”
After preparing by reviewing case studies and practicing presentations, Gaskin entered the international competition focused on the experience rather than the outcome.
“I was excited to go to Collegiate DECA internationals for the first time,” said Gaskin. “I didn’t have expectations going in, so when I found out I was a finalist—and then placed in the top 10—I was in complete shock.”
For Junior Sofia Jones, who placed in the Top 10 alongside her teammate Olivia Johnson, the experience highlighted both personal growth and the power of collaboration.
“Placing in the top 10 is honestly really rewarding,” Jones said. “Working with Olivia made it even better because we pushed each other to be prepared and confident.”
Jones, a biology major, emphasized that success in DECA isn’t limited to business students.
“I am not even a business major,” said Jones. “It might feel intimidating, but you learn fast, and it becomes super fun. The biggest thing is to practice speaking clearly and confidently.”
After three years in DECA—and qualifying for the international conference each year—this was her first time walking across the stage at the international level.
“I focused a lot on being confident in what I was talking about, and I think it went really well overall for our DECA team,” said Jones.
Senior Olivia Johnson said placing at internationals was an exhilarating feeling.
“It really shows how much I have learned over my four years here at Stephens,” said Johnson. “From late nights researching our topic to the countless hours rehearsing our script, my partner and I put in the work. To see all my hard work payoff is incredibly rewarding and I can’t wait to see where it takes me after graduation.”
Both Jones and Gaskin plan to compete again next year.
Building Skills Beyond the Classroom
Collegiate DECA prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management through competitions, workshops and networking opportunities.
“It gives students the opportunity to develop critical skills like problem-solving, communication and professionalism,” Taylor said. “My favorite part is watching students grow—seeing their confidence build from their first competition to presenting at an international level is truly impactful.”
Jones credits Stephens College for helping prepare her for both competition and future opportunities.
“Stephens has helped a lot by giving me a strong foundation in business concepts and communication skills—skills I know will help in internships, interviews and future career opportunities,” she said.
Preparing future leaders
Stephens College’s Collegiate DECA chapter comprises 12 students, enabling personalized coaching and mentorship. The college is also introducing new DECA scholarships for incoming students.
“I hope students walk away with confidence, professional skills, and a strong network of peers and industry connections,” Taylor said. “These experiences prepare them not just for competitions, but for their careers.”
As Stephens College continues to grow its presence in Collegiate DECA, this year’s results highlight both the strength of its students and the momentum of a program focused on developing the next generation of business leaders.
