We are thrilled to announce a dynamic new partnership between the Pamplin School of Business and the Oregon DECA nonprofit organization! This collaboration marks an exciting venture that will undoubtedly contribute to the development of our students and the empowerment of future business leaders.

Here are testimonials from the Oregon DECA Student Officers about the new partnership:

“I am exhilarated about the growing partnership between Oregon DECA and the University of Portland! Through this collaboration, I look forward to our 1,600 student members being made aware of the amazing business programs and seeing the beautiful campus at UP. This opportunity ultimately furthers our mission of preparing students for college and career readiness, and we cannot wait to welcome the University of Portland to the Oregon DECA family!”

—Tanveer Singh, President

“As a High School Senior, I’m particularly excited to work with University of Portland and to learn more about their programs and offerings. Being able to have an on-site experience with the Pamplin school of business is informing me in my upcoming college and career decisions.”

-Laurissa Larimer, VP of Marketing

The Pamplin School of Business offers the perfect gateway into higher education and a career-oriented mindset from Oregon DECA. As a high school junior and a member of Oregon DECA, the University of Portland gives me a unique local experience with their on-campus partnered tours and is a place I am considering pursuing a business career.

-Ananth Namboothiry, VP of Leadership

I am so excited to watch our collaboration unfold with the University of Portland! This partnership opens up a myriad of possibilities for DECA students, fostering an environment where they can gain insight into pertinent higher education opportunities. I believe everyone should have access to higher education, creating an environment where people feel included. Together, we are committed to cultivating an environment of growth, knowledge, and endless possibilities for DECA members.

-Owen Gifford, VP of Career Development

“I am beyond excited for Oregon DECA to partner with the University of Portland to provide this association that works to build emerging leaders, with even more resources and connections to further students’ education in career development. As a DECA member, I believe that having a close partnership with a local university would be beneficial in guiding high school students in finding their future career plans.”

-Manika Nunna, VP of Finance

About Oregon DECA

About Oregon DECA: Oregon DECA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in high schools and colleges around the state, shares a common vision with the Pamplin School of Business. DECA provides students with the opportunity to develop key business and leadership skills, enabling them to excel in their academic and professional pursuits.

About the Partnership

The Partnership: The partnership between the Pamplin School of Business and Oregon DECA will bring together the expertise of our faculty and the passion of DECA’s programs to create a unique and enriching experience for our students. Through joint initiatives, workshops, and events, we aim to:

  1. Enhance Learning: Provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge academic knowledge with practical skills, preparing them for success in the business world.
  2. Promote Leadership: Cultivate leadership qualities in students by offering mentorship opportunities, leadership training, and exposure to real-world challenges.
  3. Facilitate Networking: Create a platform for students to connect with industry professionals, alumni, and fellow students, fostering a strong network that will support them throughout their academic and professional journeys.
  4. Inspire Innovation: Encourage entrepreneurial thinking and innovation through collaborative projects, hackathons, and other creative initiatives.

We are confident that this partnership will be mutually beneficial and contribute significantly to the growth and success of our students. Together, we will empower the next generation of business leaders to excel in a global and ever-changing business landscape.

Please join us in celebrating this exciting collaboration between the Pamplin School of Business and Oregon DECA. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on our students and the broader community.

Events on the Horizon

  • State Career Development Conference – February 11-13, 2024 at the Holiday Inn Columbia Riverfront (UP Campus Tour to follow, TBA)
  • UP Campus Tour for Sports & Business Marketing Day with the Portland Trailblazers – March 20, 2024 (10am-12pm). To register, visit >> https://bit.ly/UPCAMPUSTOUR
  • Oregon DECA officers visit UP Campus – Summer 2024. More info TBA