Who is eligible to serve as a DECA advisor?

To serve as a DECA advisor, individuals must possess specific qualifications and affiliations with educational institutions. Teachers or school administrators have the appropriate training and expertise to guide and mentor students in DECA's programs, which focus on developing skills in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. They are familiar with the educational environment and can provide valuable insights and resources that benefit students in competitive events and leadership development.

In contrast, while parents and guardians, students, alumni, and community volunteers can support DECA initiatives in different ways, they lack the formal role and access to the educational framework necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of an advisor. Advisors are primarily responsible for overseeing club activities, educating participants about DECA's mission and goals, and helping students navigate their experiences, all of which are best facilitated by those with a strong educational background.