Lakeland offers many club opportunities to students, and one of the most notable is DECA, Distributive Education Clubs of America.

LRHS Business teacher Mr. Cole Lankford, the advisor for DECA, speaks highly of the club. According to Lankford, “It combines classroom learning with real‑world experiences through competitive events, projects, and leadership activities.” 

With 70 students from Lakeland participating, it is a student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. 

DECA has a long history of success and is extolled by many students and teachers at Lakeland, especially after several students received accolades recently for their performance at the Northern New Jersey District Competitions. DECA participants, along with learning entrepreneurship and careers in business, also go from school to school to compete with others. Students are given scenarios that simulate real-world business scenarios, often by judges who are industry professionals. The students that place in a competition then continue to more conferences in hopes of making it to states and ultimately nationals. 

DECA member, Gabriella Cusmano, said her favorite part about being in DECA is “learning and gaining experience as to what the business world looks like. As a result, I have improved on my presentation skills, my ability to make connections with other people, and I have been educated on what it takes to be a successful business woman.” 

Many students have received accolades in the DECA competitions in the 2025-2026 school year and qualified for States to continue their DECA journeys. Some notable students who earned recognition include: 

Gabi Cusmano & Paige DeSpirito — 8th Place Buying and Merchandising Team

John Star — 12th Place Marketing Communications

Kevin Kunz — 11th Place Human Resources Management

Alex Helphingstine — 2nd Place Quick Serve Restaurant Management

Matt Zak — 2nd Place Restaurant and Food Service Management

The opportunities that are gained from this organization are immense. Students are able to win DECA-sponsored scholarships and earn strong college‑application credentials.

Going forward, DECA members agreed that their goal is “to see more people win awards there in March and possibly move on to our international competition.” 

Even if students do not place in these competitions, there is never a loss. Regardless of medals, the students gain numerous skills through DECA with communication, teamwork, problem solving, time management, and presentation. DECA provides an amazing experience and serves as a tool for education for students’ futures. 

Mr. Lankford enjoys “watching students grow from beginners into confident leaders” and    “seeing a student deliver a polished presentation, win a case, or take charge of a community project. Knowing you helped them get there is incredibly rewarding.” 

Members and advisors agree that DECA is a rewarding club to be a part of as students can gain immense opportunities and experiences by being a part of the organization.