From March 3–5, members of Cranford High School’s DECA chapter, the largest extracurricular activity on the school’s campus, attended the 2026 DECA State Career Development Conference, one of the most important events of the year for business and marketing students across New Jersey. The conference brought together over 5,500 students to compete in events focused on business, finance, marketing, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. Cranford High School had an outstanding showing, demonstrating both competitive excellence and strong leadership within the organization.
A total of 123 Cranford students competed across 36 different events, ranging from prepared presentations to role-play competitions that simulate real-world business scenarios. Our students performed exceptionally well, with 10 students advancing to the final round of their respective competitions, an impressive accomplishment given the highly competitive field.
One of the biggest highlights of the conference was the qualification of eight Cranford students for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC), which will take place this April in Atlanta. Students who advance to this level represent the very top competitors in the state. Congratulations to Dominick Lotito, Ryan Verma Dhir, Dylan Aveeno, Braden Grace, Henry Stein, Aidan Hamblin, Grace Lyubarsky, and Mady Garafalo, who will represent Cranford High School and New Jersey on the international stage.
In addition to competitive success, Cranford DECA received several major chapter recognitions. The chapter was honored as a Chapter of the Year and earned seven THRIVE Academy distinctions for achievements including membership growth, impactful community service initiatives, and promotional campaigns. As part of a statewide service initiative, the chapter also raised $1,000 for Literacy New Jersey, supporting adult literacy and education programs throughout the state.
This year’s conference also marked a historic milestone for Cranford High School. Junior Klaire Keogh, the chapter’s Vice President of Media, was elected to serve as a state officer for New Jersey DECA, making her the first state officer in Cranford High School history. After a rigorous interview and election process, she was selected as State Executive Vice President of Media, one of just seven officers chosen to represent and serve more than 14,000 DECA members across New Jersey. Her election reflects not only her personal leadership and dedication but also the strength and collaborative spirit of the entire Cranford DECA chapter.
The chapter’s advisors were also recognized for their outstanding work. Ms. Savino and Ms. Fren received the Outstanding New Advisors of the Year award, highlighting their commitment to supporting students and growing the program.
Finally, Cranford DECA celebrated another achievement as eight members were recognized on stage as DECA Ambassadors of the Year, a distinction awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional dedication to promoting and strengthening New Jersey DECA.
With strong competition results, major chapter awards, and historic leadership achievements, the 2026 State Career Development Conference proved to be a remarkable experience for Cranford High School DECA. As the qualified competitors prepare for ICDC in Atlanta this April, the entire CHS community looks forward to cheering them on as they continue representing Cranford with pride.
