Congratulations to seniors Calvin Bacall and George Gardey, who finished in the Top Ten in their DECA category at the International Career Development Conference Competition held in Orlando, Florida, April 22-25.

Bacall and Gardey became eligible for the competition when they became state champions in their category, Buying and Merchandising Team Decision-Making Event. 

The International event included 22,000 students from all 50 states, Canada, and several Western European countries. 

DLS Alumni Director and part-time Business teacher Dennis Koch, ‘94, accompanied the students. 

The competition included a 90-minute, multiple choice,100-question written exam on Sunday. Gardey and Bacall prepared by reviewing previous tests, and Gardey finished in the top 10 of the 200 teams (400 individuals) in their category. 

On Monday, the team competed in the performance portion of the competition. Students are presented a scenario and may study the written prompt for 10 minutes, and then “role play” for 15 minutes. 

On Tuesday morning, Bacall and Gardey learned they had finished in the top 10 and competed in a second role play. 

The top three teams in each category were announced as finalists on Tuesday evening.

Although they did not come home with international medals, both students said they have gained so much from the experience.

“It was definitely a fun experience,” Bacall said. “I met a lot of new people. The fact that I was a finalist showed me I have the skills to succeed in anything I attempt.”

Gardey was just as enthusiastic. “DECA was a really fun experience, and helped me improve my communication skills and creativity."

Koch said the combination and learning was “fun for these kids.” He added, "They had the opportunity to participate in an international competition and to be recognized as some of the most outstanding students in the country. This says a lot about these two young men, but it also says that we, De La Salle, produce some of the finest students in the country!“

Both boys are headed to the University of Notre Dame. Gardey, the Class of 2023 Salutatorian, plans to major in Finance. Read more. Bacall plans to pursue studies in Biophysics. Read more.

Thanks to Joe Wiles, Class of 2011, for his generous donation which helped cover the cost of the trip. DLS is grateful for his support of the Business program, including DECA, the Stockmarket Club, and the Banking classes.

Pictured below: At left - George Gardey. At right - Calvin Bacall.