Gulfport High School DECA Shines at 2026 Fall Leadership Conference
The Gulfport High School DECA club demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and school spirit at the 2026 DECA Fall Leadership Conference. Held in Jackson from October 19 to October 21, the three-day event brought together emerging student leaders from across the state for intensive training, networking, and competition.
Accompanied by dedicated DECA advisors Mr. Brad Turner and Mrs. Amy Lee, the Gulfport delegation made a lasting impression among the 11 other chapters in attendance.
The chapter brought home top honors, securing 1st place for Chapter Roll Call with a standout display of Gulfport pride and energy. Additionally, the students showcased their impressive quick-thinking and entrepreneurial skills by winning 2nd place for a DECA Shark Tank pitch idea. In a high-pressure challenge, the team was given just 10 minutes to brainstorm,develop, and perfect their winning pitch.
Beyond the competitive events, the conference was an invaluable learning experience. Gulfport students attended a series of dynamic breakout sessions designed to provide practical skills, real-world knowledge, and inspiration. These workshops are tailored to help students become stronger DECA members, more effective leaders, and fiercer competitors in future events.
A major highlight of the trip was the opportunity to network with top student leaders. The Gulfport team had the honor of meeting DECA State President Cedric Davis, along with other state officers, gaining firsthand insight into the impact of DECA at the state and national levels.
Congratulations to the Gulfport High School DECA students, Mr. Turner, and Mrs. Lee for a highly successful trip. With these new skills and accolades under their belts, the chapter is well-prepared for a fantastic competitive season ahead!
Congratulations to Marin Alliston, who was recently elected as the 2026 DECA Sweetheart. This honor recognizes Alliston's leadership, dedication, and active involvement within the organization.
President - Andrew Crumbly
VP of Leadership - Anthony Medrano
VP of Marketing - Aiden Peters
VP of Hospitality - Lila Richardson
VP of Career Management - Olivia Rocha
VP of Finance - Carter Bennett
President - Cole Eubanks
VP of Leadership - Mary Power
VP of Marketing - Grace Stewart
VP of Hospitality - Maya Goldin
VP of Career Management - Jayden Schultz
VP of Finance - Andrew Crumbly & Layton Foto
DECA’s Homecoming Sweetheart - Grace Owen.
DECA & BMF students visited AT&T Call Center - Ocean Springs, MS. Representatives spoke about about job opportunities, marketing, sales, and real life situations. The students toured the facilities.
On February 4, 2026, our DECA members and Business, Marketing & Finance (BMF) students took a giant leap beyond the classroom with a visit to the INFINITY Science Center.
With two stories of indoor and outdoor exhibits and over 50 years of NASA history on display, students were immersed in a world of discovery. Since its inception nearly 15 years ago, INFINITY has been dedicated to inspiring the curious, offering a unique look into everything from the depths of our oceans to the farthest reaches of space.
INFINITY’s mission goes beyond simple observation. Our students engaged with the center’s core pillars:
Deep Exploration: Moving through museum galleries and viewing world-class historic artifacts.
STEM & Business Engagement: Participating in unique programs designed to nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.
Role Models: Learning from the heroic individuals and research organizations that drive our nation’s scientific commitments.
Representatives from AT&T visited our students to discuss career options and practice interview skills.