Four standout students from the Saline County Career Center (SCCC) recently returned from a successful showing at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC), held April 24-29, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

The event drew over 25,000 members and advisors from across the globe, including all 50 U.S. states and international delegations from Canada, China, Germany, Puerto Rico, and Guam. Beyond the high-stakes competitions, students participated in specialized leadership academies and networked with representatives from more than 70 world-renowned universities and corporations.

Representing SCCC were Allyson Astorga, Vanesa Cortes, Allison Gary, and Peyton Marshall. The chapter celebrated several major milestones during the week. Both Astorga and Marshall placed in the top 25 percent of their respective categories. Gary participated as a leadership delegate in an intensive two-day team-building session, while Cortes attended the state association leadership workshop. The chapter was also recognized for achieving “Thrive Status” for the eighth consecutive year.

To celebrate these international successes and the conclusion of the academic year, the Saline County Career Center will host a special DECA Awards Ceremony on Thursday, May 7, 2026. The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the Little Theatre at Marshall High School. The evening will feature the presentation of DECA letters and pins to members, while graduating seniors will be honored with their official commencement stoles.