Who are considered advisors in DECA?

In DECA, advisors play a crucial role in supporting and guiding members through their educational and professional development. Adult educators providing guidance encompass teachers, faculty members, and mentors who offer their expertise in business education and leadership skills. These advisors are integral in helping students navigate their DECA journey, offering advice on projects, competitions, and career readiness activities.

The other groups mentioned, while valuable to DECA, fulfill different roles. Students leading teams are peers who may take on leadership positions within their chapters but do not serve in an advisory capacity. Alumni giving back can be supportive by sharing experiences and insights, but they are not involved in the formal advisory structure. Business professionals mentoring students provide real-world insights, yet they operate in a different capacity than formal advisors who are typically educators. The key distinction lies in the formal responsibility and role of adult educators within the DECA organization, focusing on guidance and leadership development for student members.