Top state finishers lead Ursuline DECA onto global stage at ICDC

Four Ursuline students advanced to compete at the 2026 DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Atlanta, joined by classmate and chapter president Micaela Torres '27, who earned a place in DECA's Leadership Academy.

Held April 25–28, ICDC marks the culmination of the DECA season and drew thousands of students to compete in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management events. The students, all from Ursuline's Class of '27, competed alongside over 25,000 top high school business students from around the world.

Representing Ursuline were Karen Corripio (Sports and Entertainment Marketing), Emilia Plawiak (Financial Literacy), Aishwarya Punnoose (Principles of Hospitality and Tourism), and Surriah Sheronick (Travel and Tourism Marketing).

ICDC placed students in a fast-moving environment where preparation met pressure. Between testing sessions and role-play events, competitors refined presentations, adjusted strategies, and observed how others approached similar challenges. It also underscores the strength of Ursuline students as scholars, as they apply what they learn across disciplines in a setting that demands clear thinking and quick responses under pressure.

Karen Corripio was energized by both the competition and the environment. "You're surrounded by students who are driven and interested in similar fields," she said. "It feels like a preview of what college could look like."

For Emilia Plawiak, the week marked a historic first. She earned DECA ICDC International Finalist honors in Financial Literacy, becoming the first Ursuline student to reach that level, securing a medal among more than 30,000 competitors worldwide.

Aishwarya Punnoose, who plans to pursue a path in health care, said the experience strengthened a broad range of skills beyond business. "This pushed me to develop presentation skills and learn how to prepare at a high level," she said, adding that she valued being among driven, high-achieving peers.

Surriah Sheronick navigated one of the week's more demanding transitions. After competing as part of a team at the state level, she competed individually in the same event at ICDC. The unexpected change required her to rely fully on her preparation, decision-making, and presence in the moment.

"Moving from a team event to standing on your own was challenging," she said. "It really pushed me to stay focused."

That experience also shaped how she sees her future. Planning to pursue a psychology major, Sheronick said the competition sharpened her understanding of human behavior. "It was interesting to see how students responded to pressure, managed nerves, and adapted in real time."

The experience also revealed a strong sense of maturity. Business instructor Mrs. Jill Patricot, who leads Ursuline's DECA program, sees it firsthand as she prepares students not only for competition, but for the expectations of the business world. 

Through DECA, students learn how to manage their time, travel with purpose, carry themselves professionally, and take ownership of their work. 

"These students are resourceful and willing to take on a challenge," she said. "It's inspiring to watch them rise to the occasion at the international level."

Micaela Torres, reflecting on her time in the Leadership Academy, is already planning for what comes next. Beginning this fall, she will work alongside classmate and fellow DECA board member Olivia McDevitt '27 to introduce Urusline's middle schoolers to DECA.

"It’s meaningful to share something I care about that’s helped me grow,” Torres said. "I’m excited to help younger students discover what they’re capable of and see themselves in this work."

On an international stage, Ursuline's DECA students met the moment. From a first-ever international finalist finish to leadership recognition and strong individual performances, the team's showing marks a significant step forward for the program and sets a new standard for the chapter.