MEET THE 2026-2027 TEXAS DECA STATE OFFICER CANDIDATES!

EZEKIEL CHACKO

RIDGE POINT HIGH SCHOOL

  • Ezekiel Chacko is a student at Ridge Point High School with a interest in business and leadership. He is the founder of the Future Corporate Leaders of America, where he leads over 75 members and organizes Microsoft Excel and Word tutoring and business competitions. Ezekiel is a competitor in Speech and Debate, qualifying for the TFA state championship and specializing in World Schools Debate. He has also exceeded in accounting, placing at many UIL Accounting meets and obtaining an expert Microsoft Excel certification. Past academics, Ezekiel is committed to service in Nepal, where he has been a part of medical nonprofit initiatives supporting remote communities. He has been to Nepal 3 times, where he has helped provide medical resources to remote villages that don't have access to nearby hospitals. He is also a musician where he plays the guitar, piano, and bass.

SOPHIA DUONG

BEN BARBER INNOVATION ACADEMY

  • Sophia Duong is a dedicated leader from the Ben Barber Innovation Academy DECA chapter, committed to strengthening chapter engagement across Texas. After beginning her DECA journey in a chapter that often felt distant from the broader state community, she quickly realized the transformative power of connection when she attended her first DECA conference. That experience shaped her passion for ensuring that every chapter, no matter its size or resources, feels supported and included. Sophia champions accessible leadership by helping develop practical tools such as officer training guides, service project templates, and competitive event resources. She is especially passionate about fostering collaboration through regional virtual huddles, giving chapter officers a space to learn, share ideas, and grow together. By spotlighting innovative chapter initiatives and member achievements, she works to inspire statewide creativity and pride. Driven by DECA’s mission, Sophia strives to empower every member to rise, lead, and unlock their potential.

KATE HAMPTON

JOHN FOSTER DULLES HIGH SCHOOL

  • Kate Hampton is a junior at Dulles High School and a third year DECA member. She is a three time state qualifier and represented her chapter at ICDC as a freshman. Kate’s leadership experience ranges from the chapter to district level. Her freshman year, she helped establish her chapter’s SBE program and currently aids with internal operations. Serving as the Vice President of Prepared Events during her sophomore year, she supported over 50 members by proofreading papers, providing detailed feedback, and hosting over ten instructional workshops to guide competitors. She recently completed her term as Vice President of District 3, where she took part in strengthening emerging chapters through virtual chapter check ins, offering one on one guidance. Additionally, she helped lead a district wide hygiene donation drive that collected over 1000 items. Beyond the blazer, Kate enjoys playing pickle ball and making baked goods for her family!

NAVYA JHA

PROSPER HIGH SCHOOL

  • Navya Jha is a third-year DECA member and junior from Prosper High School. Through DECA, Navya has discovered her passion for leadership and creating opportunities for students in her community. As Vice President of her chapter for the past two years, Navya oversaw a 60% increase in chapter membership and launched a mentorship program to assist first-year members. She has her share of DECA accolades as an ICDC qualifier in HRM, two-time Top 10 Case Study finalist, and Texas DECA Rising Star nominee. Beyond the blazer, Navya competes in UIL Academics, is captain of the LD debate team, holds leadership in Math and Science Honor Societies, and serves on her district's Superintendent Advisory Council. In her free time, you'll find her hanging out with loved ones, swimming, watching movies, or listening to music. Navya’s favorite part of DECA is empowering members by instilling confidence and helping them find their voice.

NATHAN KWON

VISTA RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

  • Nathan Kwon is a Junior at Vista Ridge High School and a third-year DECA member. Since joining as a freshman, Nathan has competed at ICDC twice and currently serves as a Chapter Officer as Vice President of Campaigns. Having moved frequently throughout his life, including 3 years in South Korea, Nathan developed a unique ability to adapt across cultures. This adaptability, paired with his creativity, led him to build a massive digital page with over 600,000 followers across all platforms. Beyond the blazer, Nathan enjoys everything from soccer, track, acting, fashion, music, and more. His commitment to serve is equally diverse; he is deeply involved in local volunteering and recently traveled to Mexico to provide aid. While his experiences and interests are diverse, his greatest priority is investing in the organization that helped shape him, and he is ready to help every Texas DECA member step forward with “Kwon-fidence”!

MIA LAMBERS

WESTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL

  • Mia is a Junior and VP of Role-Plays at Westlake High School who is passionate about business and DECA! Outside of school, Mia loves running in cross country, reading, and spending time with friends and family. Mia also participates in debate and is an avid officer and volunteer for Generation Serve, a local nonprofit. Mia is also currently working to launch her own hoodie business, which is in its final steps of production. Furthermore, Mia’s upbringing in a bilingual German household spurred her interest in foreign relations and global business, which she hopes to apply to expanding DECA. She is excited to become more involved in the DECA community, meet new people, and communicate her inclusive goals with members since all students matter with Mia!

ALISA LIN

THE WOODLANDS COLLEGE PARK HIGH SCHOOL

  • A junior at College Park High School, Alisa is a passionate leader with a strong commitment to service.
    Her journey in DECA began in her sophomore year as an active competitor. Advancing to ICDC in that same year prompted her to step into the role of VP of Community Service for her chapter. Since then, Alisa has taken part in promoting numerous community service events, including Run for Jeev, a suicide awareness event, and a food drive, which prompted multi-club collaboration. Serving on the 2025-2026 Texas DECA Social Media Team, she has created monthly content that highlights competition and chapter inclusion.
    Beyond DECA, Alisa is the PR Manager in both Chinese Club and Interact, an international volunteer organization, where she spreads culture and community through social media. Lastly, her commitment to academics is demonstrated through her involvement in AP Ambassadors, where she encourages students to challenge themselves in AP Courses.

PARIN MANDYA RAGHAVENDRA

MELISSA HIGH SCHOOL

  • Parin Mandya Raghavendra is a junior at Melissa High School and is one of the co-founders of his school’s DECA chapter. Parin has a true passion for business and has placed in many international business and finance competitions. Parin is also the Senior Patrol Leader in his Boy Scout troop and is on track to receive the Eagle Scout rank. Beyond that, Parin is a tennis player for his school team and a guitarist who has almost 7 years of experience. All these experiences have fueled his vision for Texas DECA: a future where every chapter, no matter its size, has equal access to the resources and mentorship necessary for success. As a State Officer, Parin is devoted to being a bridge for every member, ensuring that every student who joins this organization has a clear path to leadership and achievement.

MAGGIE NEMALIKANTI

REEDY HIGH SCHOOL

  • Maggie Nemalikanti is a junior at Reedy High School and a dedicated 3rd-year DECA member, currently serving over 450 members as Reedy DECA’s Vice President of Leadership. She is a two-time ICDC Finalist in marketing roleplay events and a Texas DECA Rising Star, where she has developed creativity, critical thinking, and speaking skills. In her leadership role, Maggie has helped host workshops, guide new members through the competition process, and create a welcoming, supportive environment within her chapter, ultimately helping all members Go the Extra. Maggie hopes to use this experience to encourage every Texas DECA member to MAX out their potential.

    Beyond DECA, Maggie is a huge sports fan who plays tennis and pickleball and loves the Minnesota Vikings. She also loves to spend time with her friends and family. When at home, she listens to music by Tate McRae, The Weeknd, and Lana del Rey.

JONATHAN OYEKOLA

JOHN DUBISKI CAREER HIGH SCHOOL

  • Jonathan Oyekola, a junior at John Dubiski Career High School in Grand Prairie, Texas, has served as the Vice President of Leadership for over +330 members. Since his start in Texas DECA, he has qualified as a state competitor every year, going on to compete in ICDC in SBE. As a VP, he champions his chapters future leadership program as a leader and team member who coordinated weekly innovation workshops. After acquiring the US Seal of Biliteracy in Mandarin and Spanish through ACTFL OPI and WPT testing, Jonathan has began work in the software development field with his Congressional Award Winning app via US Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and recieved the Congressional Seal of Recognition. Jonathan is eager to proclamare a new horizon of DECA Future Leaders with each of you as a state officer, where he will work wholeheartedly to help you embark on a JOURNEY of a DECA lifetime.

LEONARDO PINA

SAN ANGELO CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

  • San Angelo Central junior Leonardo Pina serves as chapter president, is a two-time ICDC qualifier, a former VP of Finance, a co-founder of Central HOSA, and his class’s Vice President. On top of that, he competes in cross country and works at Whataburger, balancing leadership, athletics, and work with exceptional time-management and maturity. He further expanded his academic and leadership experience by attending a summer program at NYU, where he engaged in advanced learning and professional development. Leonardo hopes to become a Physician Assistant with the goal of growing into leadership roles that connect clinical work with healthcare business operations. Overall, Leonardo is committed to creating a meaningful impact within his school, community, and beyond.

EESHAN DEV PRASHANTH

MARCUS HIGH SCHOOL

  • Eeshaan Dev Prashanth is a driven student leader, innovator, and advocate for empowering the next generation of leaders through DECA. A nationally recognized researcher and Gordon E. Moore Award winner at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), Eeshaan has conducted advanced work in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and artificial intelligence. He is the co-founder of Cortex Limb, a biomedical startup for which he holds an international utility patent for an EEG-controlled prosthetic system. Eeshaan has completed over 100 hours of hospital volunteering, participated in prestigious research programs, and gained hands-on experience through internships and laboratory research.
    Within DECA, Eeshaan is passionate about strengthening chapter engagement, increasing collaboration across districts, and ensuring new and underserved chapters receive the resources and recognition they deserve. He believes leadership is about action, inclusion, and creating opportunities for every member to succeed.

ANIRUDH PUVVADA

ROUND ROCK HIGH SCHOOL

  • Anirudh Puvvada is a junior at Round Rock High School and a dedicated DECA leader with a passion for leadership, service, and business education. He previously served as Texas DECA District 5 President, leading the largest district in Texas with nearly 4,000 members. In this role, he represented members across the district, supported chapter growth, and helped lead district conferences and initiatives. During his term, Anirudh helped organize a service effort that raised over 1,000 donated goods for a local foster care shelter, demonstrating his commitment to meaningful community impact.
    Outside of DECA, Anirudh is a Life Scout working toward earning his Eagle Scout rank, where he’s developed strong leadership and service-oriented skills. He is also a member of his school’s track team and competes nationally in debate, strengthening his public speaking and critical thinking skills.
    Anirudh believes effective leadership is built on action and integrity, always together.

ARCHAN RAYCHAUDHURI

MCNEIL HIGH SCHOOL

  • Archan Raychaudhuri is a devoted and enthusiastic member of Texas DECA. He currently holds the Prepared Event Leader position at McNeil High School. Archan has made a lasting dedication throughout his involvement in Texas DECA to assist a wide array of members, both competitive and non-competitive members. He is also a two time ICDC qualifier and has personally recognized the integral importance of resources for members to succeed. Archan has been involved in organizing events for the McNeil Chapter that are engaging and promote a sense of collaborative work, encouraging members to be successful. Beyond DECA, Archan is an involved student within the larger McNeil community, participating in the school’s leadership programs and academic clubs. If elected officer, Archan will aim to create an environment for its members to be successful by having the resources and support necessary to succeed, as well as allowing them to empower innovative ideas themselves.

DANIEL REN

GLENDA DAWSON HIGH SCHOOL

  • Daniel Ren is a junior at Glenda Dawson High School and serves as COO of a 250+ member DECA chapter. Outside the classroom, he is a dedicated tennis player and is actively involved in the YMCA Youth & Government program, experiences that shape his passion for leadership and service. Since joining DECA as a freshman, Daniel has helped grow the number of state and ICDC qualifiers, hosted full-scale mock competitions, and organized high-energy socials that brought members together. A two-time ICDC qualifier and 2nd-place glass winner in Start-Up Business Plan, he credits his early success to experienced mentors and accessible resources. That perspective drove him as President of District 3, where he implemented a chapter check-in system to better understand the real needs of members. Daniel is committed to supporting competitive success and representing every chapter, and he looks forward to serving Texas DECA to the best of his ability.

EVELINA SHAJU

RIDGE POINT HIGH SCHOOL

  • Evelina Shaju is a junior at Ridge Point High School and a third-year DECA member, placing as a State Finalist in her first year and a Top 20 International finalist at ICDC in Marketing. She serves as Vice President of Marketing for her school’s DECA chapter and as Vice President of the Missouri City Mayor’s Youth Commission, demonstrating her dedication to leadership and advocacy. Beyond DECA, Evelina actively engages in her church community and has held multiple leadership roles, reflecting her commitment to empowering others and making a positive impact. Known for her creativity and energy, she enjoys connecting with people through dance and exploring local matcha spots, bringing a spirit of enthusiasm and dedication with her everywhere she goes.

MANASKRITI SISTA

HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL

  • Manaskriti Sista is a junior at Frisco Heritage High School and a third-year DECA member running for Texas DECA State Office. She has qualified for State CDC thrice, earning recognition as a state finalist and ICDC qualifier in her sophomore year. Most recently, she won the Texas DECA 2025 Spring Marketing Case Study and placed in the top 10 in the Hospitality Case Study. As Vice President of Career Development, Manaskriti has led chapter initiatives to help members prepare for conferences, network with other chapters, and grow future DECA membership.

    Outside of DECA, she is a competitive badminton player ranked top 35 nationally and the founder and CEO of two student-led businesses, one with a revolutionary patent-pending product. Passionate about expanding access to DECA resources for all chapters, fostering collaboration, and developing workshops, Manaskriti aims to empower members and strengthen the Texas DECA community through unity, innovation, and excellence.

DANIEL SKOTNIKOV

MARCUS HIGH SCHOOL

  • Daniel is a third-year DECA member who is passionate about leading intentionally, connecting, and service. He won second place at ICDC for the Zurn Elkay Sustainable Water Challenge, securing $25,000 in water fountains for his school by developing solutions that increased student awareness of sustainable water options. Through this experience, Daniel strengthened his ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and collaborate with others to create real-world impact. Daniel has also participated in the ICDC Leadership Elevate Academy, strengthening his communication and collaboration skills alongside members from across the globe. Outside of DECA, he is actively involved in Robotics and Science Olympiad. Daniel is driven by the belief that leadership is measured by the opportunities you create for others, and he spends time serving at Special Olympics basketball and Heart of the City. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, fishing, and staying active through basketball and pickleball.

DHIYASRI THIRUMURUGAN

BASIS SAN ANTONIO - SHAVANO CAMPUS

  • Dhiyasri Thirumurugan is a junior at BASIS Shavano Campus and President of the Basis DECA chapter. As the 2025-2026 District 2 Vice President she has led competition preparation and the creation of a districtwide Chapter Handbook to support chapter growth. This past year, she was also able to place Top 20 at ICDC. Outside of DECA, Dhiya is the Cofounder of Cycles for Change, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit addressing period poverty, through which she has raised approximately $7,000 to support menstrual equity initiatives. She is also one of seven Digital4Good Changemakers recognized for using technology to drive positive social impact. In addition, Dhiya co-founded and serves as president of her school’s Investment Club, where she teaches middle school students financial literacy. Her community involvement includes teaching English to underserved students in India, and she is a two-time recipient of the Gold PVSA Award.

TAD TOLBERT

WAKELAND HIGH SCHOOL

  • Tad is the type of person who’ll do anything “for the plot.” Whether running 100 mile ultramarathons without preparation, experimenting in the kitchen, or gambling his physics grade the night before a final, it seems to be a habit. While some find him a little crazy, he prefers “growth-obsessed,” often finding time to run obstacle course races and read philosophical fiction. One of his most significant “for the plot” moments has proven to be joining DECA freshman year where he somehow finalized at ICDC without knowing there was a presentation rubric… After this, he fell in love with the organization, what it stood for, and the people within who exemplified those values. Continuing his DECA journey, he became an officer, serving as both a chapter and district vice president. Looking to now help others make their own memories and experience personal growth, he’s running to be your next state officer!

PRAHAS VEERAMACHANENI

COPPELL HIGH SCHOOL

  • Prahas Veeramachaneni is a junior at Coppell High School and serves as the Vice President of Administration for Coppell DECA. He is in his third year as a Texas DECA member and currently competes in Apparel and Accessories Marketing (AAM). This past year, Prahas was a state finalist and an ICDC competitor in AAM. Throughout his DECA journey, he has grown to truly value the strong sense of community DECA fosters among young, business-minded leaders like himself.

    Outside of DECA, Prahas enjoys playing and watching sports, playing the guitar, competing in robotics, and listening to music, especially R&B. He is also passionate about giving back to the community and actively contributes by building computers for the Computers for the Blind organization.

    Prahas is excited to connect with new members at SCDC as he runs for Texas DECA state officer.

NANDINI VEGESANA

CENTENNIAL HIGH SCHOOL

  • Nandini Vegesana is a junior at Centennial High School in Frisco and represents District 7. She enjoys running, spending time with friends, and is obsessed with Chipotle. She has had the privilege of building her leadership skills by serving as Cross Country Captain and Key Club President, but of course, DECA has a very special place in her heart. As her third year in DECA, she is currently the Officer of Campaigns for her chapter. Her favorite DECA memory was DECA night at ICDC in Florida in 2025. As a State Officer candidate, Nandini plans to ensure every DECA member, regardless of chapter size or experience level, has access to resources and opportunities. “RUN the Distance With Nandini” as she aims to help build a welcoming and inclusive Texas DECA community by revitalizing the Competitive Events Super Success System, creating a Chapter Buddy System, and hosting Monthly Alumni Speaker Series.

THYU ZIN

AMTECH CAREER ACADEMY

  • ThyuTa Zin is a junior at the AmTech Career Academy DECA chapter in Amarillo, Texas. She aims to foster emerging leaders who can connect to drive meaningful change. In her role as District 8 Vice President, she gained valuable leadership experience and insight into the challenges faced by chapters and members throughout Texas DECA. Through DECA, ThyuTa has built a meaningful legacy, connecting members to resources and increasing member engagement to result in a stronger DECA experience. Beyond the blazer, ThyuTa is actively involved in several organizations which give back to her community and surrounding areas. She also serves as a Superintendent Ambassador, representing the student body and providing a student perspective to district administration. Her greatest aspiration is to expand educational opportunities in developing countries, with a focus on Myanmar, her country of origin.