At the start of the meeting, Isabella Bartawa, vice president of the new Punxsutawney DECA chapter, described the organization’s mission and competitive structure and introduced finance vice president Gemma Farkas, who earned the highest overall district score in a district competition.

Bartawa said DECA prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management through role plays, case studies and judged projects. The chapter enrolled 23 members this year and staff reported 11 students qualified for state-level competition in February in Hershey. Officers asked the board and community to support fundraising efforts to offset participation costs.

Board members congratulated the students and offered logistical support if requested.