Two standout students, juniors Marwan Alkhaleel Aziz Allam, have been elected as Nebraska DECA state officers, earning the opportunity to help shape the organization’s future for high school students across the state. Allam will serve as the vice president of community engagement, and Alkhaleel will be the vice president of membership services. Both are already brimming with ideas and enthusiasm for what’s to come.
At the beginning of this year, candidates went through a screening process to be slated for a potential role on the state officer team. Then, on March 20-21, candidates campaigned for a leadership role at the Nebraska DECA State Career Development Conference. Here, they gave a formal speech to voting delegates from each participating school on why they should be chosen for the leadership team, as well as a follow-up Q&A session. Additionally, they set up a tri-fold presentation in the atrium, including their goals for Nebraska DECA and why they should be chosen
For Alkhaleel, his campaign was more than just leadership and was about creating a real connection with the community. The personality-driven approach resonated with voting delegates, and now, he is excited to channel his passion into tangible change, specifically aiming to increase community service opportunities within Nebraska DECA chapters.
“I went against a lot of great candidates, all of whom are smart and super involved,” Alkhaleel said. “But I think what made the difference was personality. I made sure to come off as funny but also serious- someone who is a friend, not just someone looking for control. I also think people loved the idea of adding more service into DECA, which I promoted.”
Allam’s clever and energetic campaign strategy was what helped him stand out. Known at the state conference as the “say cheese” guy, Allam made sure his message stuck with voters. His slogan, “Say Cheese for Aziz,” was a favorite throughout the conference. His vision also focused on making Nebraska DECA more inclusive and connected across the state.
“At first, I thought DECA was mostly concentrated in Lincoln and Omaha,” Allam said. “But at the state conference, I met so many people from smaller towns. They deserve to feel just as involved, and I want to make that happen.”
Both credit strong support systems for their success. Each had a campaign team, complete with advisors and associate officers who helped with everything from branding to motivation. More than just mentors, their advisors were motivators, idea-builders and voices of encouragement- playing a key role in turning their visions into victories.
“We are always so excited when our kids want to campaign to be a state officer,” DECA advisor Ashely Dworak said. “We are all so proud of Aziz and Marwan, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.”
As they prepare to take on their new leadership roles, Alkaheel and Allam are already proving that Nebraska DECA’s future is in passionate, capable hands. With their bold ideas and drive to uplift every corner of the state’s chapters, they are ready to ensure that DECA has a lasting impact on every participant.
