Aneesh Chintala is a driven and passionate junior at Lebanon Trail High School, where he currently serves as the Co-President of his DECA chapter. Through DECA, Aneesh has competed in roleplay events at all three levels: District, State, and ICDC. Along with his competitive experiences, Aneesh has led his chapter through impactful chapter campaigns, competition preparation, and community service - leading them to earn District 7’s 2024-2025 Chapter of the Year. Additionally, he has implemented creative initiatives such as member points and school-store employee operations within his chapter. Aside from DECA, Aneesh is heavily involved within his campus and serves as a representative on Frisco ISD’s Superintendent Advisory Council, Key Club President, and Boys’ Volleyball Co-Captain. Furthermore, Aneesh leads various community service projects: such as being the Vice President of Angels Among Us, a cancer awareness and fundraising 501(c)3 organization with over 45 chapters across the US. Beyond academics and extracurriculars, Aneesh has a freelancing photography business and loves to indulge in late-night-door-dashing and Taco Bell runs. Through determination and persistence, he strives to help every member REACH their potential with ANEESH.

Srinija Chukkapalli is a driven student leader currently serving as Vice President of Marketing for the Leander High School DECA chapter in District 5 of Texas DECA. Her journey with DECA began as a freshman, fueled by a passion for entrepreneurship and creative problem-solving. Over the years, she has competed in events such as Business Services Operations Research (BOR), Financial Consulting (FCE), and Principles of Finance (PFN), gaining valuable skills and earning recognition for her strategic thinking and professionalism. As Vice President of Marketing, Srinija has aided in enhancing her chapter's visibility by spearheading social media campaigns, creating engaging content, and organizing events to inspire member participation. Her innovative approach and commitment to fostering a collaborative environment have significantly boosted member engagement and chapter growth. Outside of DECA, Srinija is a creative and multifaceted individual with a passion for music. She enjoys singing, playing guitar, and performs as part of a band. Additionally, she runs a social media account called Inner Edit, where she shares insightful tips on self-growth and cultivating a positive mindset. Srinija's dedication to leadership, creativity, and empowerment continues to define her journey as she strives to create impactful experiences and meaningful connections within Texas DECA.

Dheepya Deepak is a driven and dynamic student with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for networking. Whether she’s leading DECA initiatives, brainstorming business strategies, or connecting with industry professionals, she thrives in environments that push her to grow. Her belief in the power of mentorship and networking has shaped her path—so much so that it's guiding her toward the Wharton School of Business at UPenn. Beyond the boardroom, Dheepya is a powerhouse of creativity—a content creator, a champion for community impact, and a dedicated leader. She plays an active role in various organizations, including MKK Cancer Nonprofit, which she founded in honor of her grandfather. When she’s not busy strategizing or competing, you’ll find her spending time with her Doberman puppy, Lucky, cooking up something delicious, or sharing life updates through her micro-influencer journey. Her ultimate goal? To build a future where meaningful connections open doors to success—not just for herself, but for everyone around her. With an unstoppable drive and a knack for turning ideas into action, Dheepya is just getting started.

Veda Ganesan is a junior at Marcus High School and a third-year DECA member. Serving as the founding District 12 President and Marcus DECA Executive Officer, Veda has grown into a visionary leader, embodying inclusivity, ambition, and innovation. Veda's efforts in establishing a new district led to a strong community focused on cross-chapter collaboration, the donation of 6,000+ cans to 12 DFW food banks, and the launch of the first D12 Fall Leadership Conference. Throughout her tenure, Veda has discovered a profound passion for servant leadership and a strong sense of unity within the DECA community. As a state officer, Veda hopes to utilize her skills to help Texas DECA members be the one, experience the difference, get the edge, and maximize their momentum. Beyond the blazer, Veda is the host of “Sustainable Cents ” podcast where she discusses all things money, politics, and the environment. When she’s not snapping photos or making matcha, Veda loves to play piano, recently performing at Carnegie Hall. As a Texas DECA officer, Veda hopes to inspire 25,000+ members to venture into new opportunities, listening to their feedback to make real change. So, Texas DECA, are you ready to VENTURE with VEDA?

Stephanie Gearing, a junior at Vista Ridge High School, became actively involved with DECA as a freshman, falling in love with the opportunities and community DECA offers. She serves as Vice-President of her chapter, supporting and mentoring students. She cultivated leadership and professional skills through HOBY Leadership, and UPenn’s Future of Business Seminars, winning their global pitch competition for her product. She competed in DECA every year, and her team advanced to state and international competitions. Through DECA she learned the importance of persistence, dedication, collaboration, resilience, and service. Stephanie is VP and saxophone section leader of her 300-student marching band and a State Outstanding Performer. She combined her entrepreneurial spirit with creativity as Founder/CEO of Gearing Lifestyle Photography and Callisto Quartet, a saxophone ensemble combining outreach and business initiatives. Stephanie strives to foster global citizenship, and business networks through Pan American Student Forum, as SNHS Vice-President, NHS junior representative, and Rotary Founder/President. Receiving Key Club’s Sophomore of the Year Award for Texas/Oklahoma for her visionary leadership and servant heart and a $1400 grant, she spearheads literacy and peer-mentoring initiatives across her 43,000-student district. Stephanie brings contagious enthusiasm, boundless energy, and collaborative leadership to State DECA.

Neha Juluri is a Junior at Tom Glenn High School who shows a commitment to greatness in all aspects of her academic and extracurricular goals. Neha currently serves as the Vice President of Marketing for Glenn DECA, and through this leadership Neha discovered her passion for leadership and a strong sense of belonging within the DECA organizations. Through this journey Neha realized that being a leader requires you to take the first step but being a true leader inspires everyone to walk together to achieve a greater goal. Beyond the DECA blazer, Neha is very involved in her school as she is a proud member of the High School Band and is an active member in many of her school’s clubs, holding leadership positions in a few. Neha is president/co-founder of Women in STEM and social media Officer of Women in Business. She also has work experience through a tutoring job and a marketing internship with a local dance studio. In her down time, Neha enjoys watching movies, playing basketball, going out with friends, and exploring new places.

Gia Kapoor is a junior and a third-year member of DECA, currently serving as the Director of Finance & IT with McNeil High School. She is incredibly passionate towards DECA, consistently applying herself towards serving a larger base of students. Additionally, she unifies DECA competitors and noncompetitors alike in her DECA chapter, providing the DECA experience that each of her members deserve to be included in. From being a Competition Committee member in her chapter and providing members essential tips to succeed in competition, to now being a chapter officer who organizes engaging activities for everyone, Gia has expanded her chapter membership by over 30 members and aims to expand and unify Texas DECA through her skills. Beyond the blazer, Gia is a beloved daughter, sister, and friend who is an active member of her school community. Involved in Student Council, HOSA, Model UN, Indian Fusion Dance, and the National Honors Society, she is always thrilled to earn an opportunity to better serve and lead her fellow members. Overall, Gia looks forward to seeing everyone soon at the State Career Development Conference and hopes to gain the support of her DECA family for everyone to CLIMB with Kapoor!

Mariyam Khazi is a junior at Round Rock High School, currently serving as both Texas DECA District 5 Vice President and RRHS Vice President of Operations, representing the 8th largest international DECA chapter. Mariyam has competed in both roleplay and presentational events, qualifying for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) through Financial Consulting Event (FCE). Outside of DECA, she is the Founder and President of the Muslim Student Association (MSA), where she advocates for inclusivity and leads impactful initiatives such as fundraising for humanitarian aid and establishing a prayer room for Muslim students. Mariyam also serves as an intern at A+ Federal Credit Union, gaining valuable experience in finance and business operations.

Clare Kim is a junior at Coronado High School and a two-term Texas DECA District 10 Vice President. As a 2x state qualifier in PBM and IMCP, DECA has shaped her passion for business and leadership, driving her to expand opportunities for members statewide. Now, she’s ready to take Texas DECA further by focusing on four key pillars: Drive, Adapt, Represent, and Elevate. Beyond DECA, Clare is the president of her school’s Key Club, leading 200+ members in service projects that directly impact the El Paso community. She also serves as Vice President of Attendance for NHS, ensuring accountability and engagement among student leaders. Whether in leadership, service, or competition, Clare is dedicated to creating spaces where students can thrive. In her free time, Clare blends business acumen with creativity, baking and selling pastries to friends and family. To Clare, DECA is more than just competition—it’s a platform for innovation, leadership, and connection. With resilience and vision, she is ready to DARE with Texas DECA and take it to new heights.

Maya Kordia is a junior at Glenda Dawson High School and has been a dedicated member of DECA since her freshman year. She is a 2x state qualifier and has shown a strong commitment to leadership, growth, and community involvement. She is passionate about creating opportunities for members to grow, excel, and make meaningful contributions to the organization. As the Director of Member Recognition of her school’s chapter, she helped over 100 new members find competitive events best suited for them. Maya’s leadership extends beyond DECA, as she actively participates in various school activities and enjoys working collaboratively with others, honing her skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. As a state officer, Maya will focus on fostering an environment where every DECA member has the tools and resources to grow and succeed, ensuring that all members are supported in reaching their highest potential. She will work to create opportunities for skill development, encourage collaboration, and promote leadership across the state, empowering members to continuously improve and achieve new milestones. By focusing on growth, adaptability, and a positive and dynamic environment, Maya will shape a future where Texas DECA thrives, and every member can excel.

Hayden Lee is a Junior at Wakeland High School (Frisco, Texas) and is a third year DECA member. Currently, Hayden proudly serves as Wakeland DECA’s Executive President and creates engaging content for the Texas DECA Social Media Team. For the past 2 years, Hayden has attended the International Career Development Conference and competed in International Business Plan and School Based Enterprise. Through both her leadership and competitive experience, Hayden is committed to creating an environment that promotes collaboration, growth, and excellence for all members of Texas DECA. She firmly believes that leadership is not about position nor power but instead, it is about initiative and impact. Beyond the blazer, Hayden represents the Frisco youth population as an officer of Frisco Mayor’s Youth Council, advocates for her high school on the Frisco ISD Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, and is a Drum Major for the Wakeland High School Band. As a Texas DECA Officer Candidate, Hayden seeks to help members Head For the Stars through both leadership and competition development so that they can BE THE ONE to succeed in their chapters and communities. Now, are you ready to take flight and Head For the Stars with Hayden?

Hitesh Mallula is a junior at Glenda Dawson High School in Pearland, Texas. This is his third year competing in DECA, and since joining, he has been a State Finalist and placed 2nd in the world at ICDC. He has served as a dedicated officer for his chapter of over 200 members since his Sophomore year and currently serves as the Director of Written Events. As an officer, Hitesh has worked closely with the training team to create specialized resources and training opportunities for chapter members to be able to maximize their potential in competition. He enjoys being able to uplift fellow members and seeing their growth over time. Outside of DECA, Hitesh is very passionate about robotics and is an officer on his high school’s FRC team, Pearadox. He also develops apps and websites having extensively studied computer science and plans on majoring in both business and computer engineering. Additionally, Hitesh is an Eagle Scout and plays for his school’s tennis team. Hitesh is looking forward to having a meaningful impact on the future of every Texas DECA member.

Aarini Mehta is a junior at Clements High School. Academically, Aarini plans to pursue a career in Economics, and Chemistry is her passion. She has taken a variety of high-level AP classes in high school, including Human Geography, Physics, Organic Chemistry, and Calculus, to name a few. Aarini has also pursued a business endorsement and has taken Business Information Systems and Principles of Marketing and Finance. During her summer internship at OBWB law firm in the accounting department, Aarini helped track and manage accounts payables and accounts receivables for a variety of clients of the firm. Through her officer positions in DECA, both as VP of District 3 and as President of the Clements DECA chapter, Aarini has gained valuable leadership experience. Her community service includes being an officer in a 501(c) named BEAR (BE A Resource), teaching debate to underprivileged children in India, and teaching classical Indian dance as a substitute while her teacher was unavailable. For her volunteer efforts, she received a presidential medal from President Joe Biden. In her spare time, she loves performing Indian classical dance pieces, playing pickleball, and writing articles for a local South Asian magazine named Aashiyana Literary Magazine.

Stanford O'Quinn is a Junior at Pine Tree High School, and cannot wait to campaign as a state officer candidate for Texas DECA. Though only participating in DECA for the first time in his junior year, he has experienced and observed the community's greatness and wants to bolster networking opportunities. Outside of DECA, he enjoys running, going out with friends, playing video games, and traveling. As the VP of Marketing & Membership for Pine Tree's DECA Stanford organizes meetings, plans chapter campaigns, recruits new members, assists in competitive event practice, and leads interaction with the local community. Having a passion for business and community growth stanford has Interned with New York City Economic Development Corporation, is a member of the Spring Hill State Bank Student Board, is captain of his UIL accounting team, and acts most notably as Interact club & StuCo Vice President at his school among the other school organizations he is involved in. After Graduating Stanford Would like to Pursue a career in urban planning and eventually transfer into a position in real estate asset management or project management for a planning firm. Are you ready to help Stanford intensify the AURA of Texas DECA?

Starting high school, Itzel Paredes was shy and introverted. She didnt feel confident in her abilities or her place among her peers. However, joining DECA changed everything for her. Through DECA, she learned valuable leadership and mentoring skills that transformed her into a confident leader. She had qualified for state. Making it to state not only strengthend her leadership skills but also helped her make lasting friendships. She currently has all A's and plans to study business, aiming to be the first in her family to graduate from college. She wants to pursue a career where she can give back to her family and community. Itzel is bilingual and dedicated to help people, businesses, and her community. Deca has been super important to journey, providing her with confidence and skills.

Laika Patel, a junior at Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas, serves as Vice President for her chapter of over 300 members. Since joining Texas DECA, she has qualified to state each year, and competed at ICDC upon freshman year. As a VP, she has aided her chapter in completing all available campaigns and coded a website from scratch with coordinated DECA resources for members, but the highlight has been sparking passion within incoming members. She hopes to inspire engagement in Texas DECA, but also work within the organization to make every member feel represented. She firmly believes that her fond, lifelong memories, friends, and skills should be how every student experiences DECA. Further, Laika is working for a non-profit to develop businesses in Nigeria, learning Mandarin under U.S National Security Initiative, as well as French for the past decade, and creating websites free-of-cost for businesses in need. In the past, she has interned with Lululemon, served as an ambassador for the Yale Entrepreneurial Society, and received the Gold Presidential Service Award for volunteering. Laika is energized at the prospect of connecting with each of you as a state officer, where she will work devotedly to LAUNCH your futures.

Aaditya Puttagunta is a junior at Stephen F. Austin High School and a dedicated DECA member, having qualified for state competition twice and placed as a state finalist once. DECA has sparked his interest in business, leading him to explore the fields of entrepreneurship, venture capital, and corporate strategy. Through his internships with various venture capital firms including HP Tech Ventures, IgniteXL, and RevRoad Capital, Aaditya has gained deep insights and firsthand experience in the startup ecosystem. Using this experience, Aaditya founded AurusFi, a fintech startup that provides stock traders and investors of all skill levels with market analysis and educational tools. Aaditya has also co-founded two other business ventures, including a web development firm and an AI-powered fitness app. Outside of DECA and his business ventures, Aaditya is the Project Director of the Sugar Land 95 project, a nonprofit project sponsored by his school district. He also holds officer positions in various other organizations. Using his experience in project management, business strategy, and venture capital, Aaditya is committed to providing DECA members with real-world opportunities. With a vision for innovation, he is ready to empower the next generation of business leaders and take Texas DECA to new heights.

Adam Siddiqi is a current student at The Woodlands College Park High School in Houston, Texas. Since joining his freshman year, Adam has previously been a multi-state finalist winner and competed at ICDC his sophomore year. Throughout his journey, Adam has competed in Franchise Business Plan, Project Management Career Development, and Sports and Entertainment Marketing Operations Research. Adam’s immersion and experiences in DECA offer him a platform to share his passions for attaining new business skills and creating a set of life-lasting memories with other like-minded peers and his friends. He plans to take this opportunity to amplify the Texas DECA community by providing wider access to resources, key components, and financial relief through the prospective initiatives he plans to achieve. Outside of DECA, Adam is a passionate scientific researcher, advocate environmentalist, and a linguistic educational provider to other students. Within his free time, Adam enjoys listening to music (Indie), hanging out with his friends, or trying new food/coffee shops within the area. Adam is excited to start the process of becoming a potential state officer, and wouldn’t be able to do it without each and every amazing 20,000+ Texas DECA members out there. Vote for Siddi-KEY!

Nikhil Sivanthi is a junior at Reedy High School and a passionate 3rd-year DECA member, currently serving 550+ members as Reedy DECA’s VP of Leadership, where he has led the chapter to become the 2024 Texas DECA Chapter of the Year. He has also been recognized as a two-time ICDC qualifier in PMSP and a Texas DECA Rising Star. As a driving force for Reedy DECA’s success, he has hosted workshops, provided competition resources, and fostered a tight-knit community to result in a record-breaking 69 ICDC qualifiers in 2024. Beyond DECA, Nikhil has many interests and hobbies. He has a lifelong passion for tennis and is a die-hard fan of FC Barcelona and the Houston Texans. In his free time, he enjoys listening to The Weeknd, Travis Scott, and Bollywood songs. In the professional realm, his dedication to servant leadership led him to establish Kanaa, a nonprofit connecting individuals with physical impairments worldwide to corporate jobs. DECA has transformed Nikhil’s life, and he is determined to ensure that Texas DECA has the same effect on others’ lives. He is committed to helping everyone SOAR above and beyond their potential while empowering them to Be The One in their DECA journey.

Brady Smith, a junior at V.R. Eaton High School, has served his chapter as Vice President of Marketing for the past two years. Brady has also qualified for state every year since his freshman year. He also qualified for ICDC last year as a sophomore in Project Management. Brady is committed to excellence in all academic and extracurricular pursuits. In addition to his role at Eaton, he serves as one of the members and influencers on Texas DECA’s Social Media Team. Throughout his journey in various leadership positions within DECA, Brady has developed a passion for leadership and feels a strong sense of unity and collaboration with his DECA family. Behind The Blazer, Brady is his Class’s Vice President, a Student Council Officer, Hillwood Student Influencer, Reach Robotics Marketing Lead, a member of NHS and NAHS, FCCLA Public Relations officer, and an Eagle Scout. Brady believes that the Texas DECA community has helped BUILD him into who he is today and could not be more excited to give back by becoming a State Officer. If given the opportunity to serve, he will dedicate himself to continuing BUILDING growth and unity within the organization. BUILD WITH BRADY!

Josephine Sun is a junior at Westwood High School, where she currently serves as the Asst. Vice President of Training for over 550+ members in her chapter. Previously, she has served as a Director of Roleplay events officer. As a passionate team leader, Josephine has worked with her team to implement an all-new winter break training program resulting in a record number of state qualifiers and strengthening emerging leaders. A two-time ICDC qualifier and Top 10 Finalist for HLM, Josephine credits much of her competitive success to the strong support system she’s had in DECA and aims to strengthen the state-wide support system for others as well. As a state officer, Josephine is excited to represent all chapters big and small, strengthen current competition resources, and connect more members together. In her free time, Josephine also serves her greater community as an active member of her school’s student government and also has her own nail art business. To Josephine, being a Texas DECA state officer candidate means enhancing the experiences of each and every of the 23,000+ DECA members to RISE to their highest potential as leaders and entrepreneurs.

Ishan Wakade is a junior at Coppell High School. He is passionate about DECA as it has helped him develop his knowledge of economics and finance whilst offering him valuable marketing experience on his way to becoming a finalist, top presenter, and top test taker at ICDC last year. He currently serves as an Executive Vice President for his 350+ member chapter, where he has been able to assist students with their written events and roleplays with the hope that they will earn a coveted spot at internationals. His fondest memories within DECA was his time trading and networking with people from all over the world. As a state officer, he hopes that he will be able to help more students receive the same experience, especially those in schools that may not have the help that they need from ICDC veterans. Outside of DECA, he is training to become one of 24 student leaders for the 20k+ member Texas Thespians next year. Through this experience, he believes that he is developing critical leadership skills that he hopes to utilize at Texas DECA. If given the opportunity to serve, Ishan will work passionately to help everyone become a STAR.

Emily Zheng is a junior at John Foster Dulles High School, serving as her chapter’s VP of Roleplay. Fueled by her love of food and business, Emily is a 2x QSRM competitor and 1x ICDC finalist with a hidden knack of getting sick by a Dole-Whip. As her chapter’s officer, Emily has led countless zoom and face-to-face roleplay sessions, partnered with local schools to host community events and socials, and learned what it means to serve. When she’s not collaborating with her fellow officers, you can catch her rehearsing role-plays with a wooden spoon as a mic. As state officer, Emily aspires to break down barriers and show Texas DECA that competition and community go hand in hand. Beyond the blazer, Emily loves trying new recipes, volunteering at her local animal shelters (when she doesn’t forget to bring her allergy medicine), and collecting random wrappers and trash from places she has visited as a memento. Emily believes that Texas DECA isn’t just an organization - it’s a family that you grow, learn, and laugh with. As a Texas DECA state officer candidate, Emily strives to be the push that members need to Be the One and LEAD with confidence.