2026 Fall Learning Conference

Competition Performance, Industry Credentials, and Career Pathways

Rising Beyond the Horizon

Rooted in vision and forward motion, the 2026–2027 Washington DECA theme represents the endless potential ahead. It reflects the intersection of present and future, where progress, ambition, and new beginnings come together. This theme is about rising beyond current limits and continuing to move forward with purpose. It speaks to strength built through challenge and the determination to keep striving for more while carrying a strong sense of hope and energy, reminding us that opportunity is always just ahead.

At its core, this theme is about growth and transformation through every step of the journey. It is a mindset that encourages us to lift our eyes forward and embrace what’s next with intention. Ahead of us is not just the unknown—but our HORIZON.

Student Scholarships

Scholarships are available for students attending FLC and are granted based on financial need. The scholarship covers the conference registration fee. Applications are due on September 23 at 5:00 p.m.

Fall Conference Sponsorship Opportunities

Fall Learning Conference Highlights

COMPETITION & INDUSTRY WORKSHOPS

Students have the opportunity to explore nearly 30 workshops led by industry professionals, following the tracks of:

Leadership, Finance, Hospitality, Sports, Competition, and Entrepreneurship

TWO GENERAL SESSIONS

Featuring two keynote speakers who will inspire attendees.

ADVISOR HOSPITALITY ROOM

We look forward to hosting Advisors & sharing DECA updates.

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INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION LAB

Amplify your resume! Students can complete an online certification exam in the area of project management ready, Microsoft Office, entrepreneurship, business communications, and more while attending the Fall Learning Conference.

DIAMOND GIVEBACK NIGHT

Diamond Giveback Night will be a powerful evening where students roll up their sleeves and dive into hands-on service projects led by inspiring community organizations. It is time for DECA members to shine brightly while giving back.

DECA AFTER DARK

A high-energy evening where students unwind with interactive games, creative challenges, and collaborative activities designed to strengthen teamwork and problem-solving skills, giving members a chance to network while enjoying the excitement of the conference “after” hours.

CHAPTER LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

We invite three chapter leaders per chapter to attend our hands-on, leadership academy, focused on providing chapter officers with new ideas and resources to help lead a successful DECA year.

EXHIBITOR FAIR

Vendors showcasing school-based enterprise products, nonprofit and fundraising ideas, colleges and post-secondary options. Many of the educational institutions will join members for a college round table session.

COLLEGE ROUND TABLE

Various colleges and universities will be in attendance during this informational session. Seniors will have the opportunity to ask questions and network with individuals from several post-secondary education schools.

2026 MOCK COMPETITION

Students will participate in a mock competition and gain immediate verbal feedback from industry professional volunteer judges. Advisors register students for competition in conference registration. Competition times will be assigned. Each student may participate in one role-play and the mock job interview.

PRINCIPLES OF MARKETING

Role-play events for first-time competitors. Feedback provided immediately after the role-play concludes.

BUSINESS FINANCE INDIVIDUAL SERIES

Role-play events for experienced competitors. Feedback provided immediately after the role-play concludes.

MOCK JOB INTERVIEW PRACTICE

Student can put their interview skills to the test for a mock entry level marketing communications position.

Keynote Sessions

KEITH DAVIS

Jasmine Donovan

Jasmine Donovan is the President and CEO of Dick’s Drive-In Restaurants. As a granddaughter of one of the founders and namesake, Dick Spady, she has worked for the business off and on since she was 16 years old and started working full-time on the executive team in 2013. Jasmine stepped into the role of President when her father, Jim Spady, retired in late March 2019. Jasmine is on the Board of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, the Rainier Club and Evergreen Operating Company. Jasmine was recognized by the Puget Sound Business Journal as a Woman of Influence in 2019.

Jasmine graduated from Hillsdale College with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Chemistry in 2006. She joined the Navy after college and was assigned as an instructor at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, SC. During her service she was the Command Public Affairs Officer, earned her master training specialist certification, and was the Division Director of the enlisted physics teaching division. While in Charleston, Jasmine earned her Masters in Business with an emphasis in Finance at Charleston Southern University.

Jasmine currently resides in North Seattle with her husband and two sons.

FREE DAPS

Washington DECA is excited to welcome FREE DAPS to perform at our FLC 2026 opening session! FREE DAPS is a group of freestyle rappers and improvisers who use hip-hop to create a thrilling, one-of-a-kind musical comedy show every time they perform.

KEITH DAVIS

Keith Davis

Keith Davis is a pro football player, Rose Bowl Champion, entrepreneur, Scholar Award of Honor recipient from U.S.C School of Business, and inspirational speaker in over 68 countries! Keith truly understands the essence of teamwork, and the power of true RESILIENCE! Moreover, Keith grew up in the tough inner city of Los Angeles. He had to persevere through traumatic struggles, including poverty, extreme family substance addictions and suicide, domestic violence and abuse, neighborhood gang violence, and multiple personal academic setbacks.

In addition, he also had to overcome the adversity of multiple football injuries, as well as business setbacks! Yet, these challenges forged an unwavering resilience and determination in Keith, giving genuine authenticity, dynamic energy, and infectious passion to his inspirational message of resilience and overcoming adversity. Consequently, Keith has developed the tools, tactics, techniques, and strategies that have inspired and helped him overcome personal and business challenges! He’s looking forward to sharing that inspiration with you!

INDUSTRY WORKSHOP TRACKS

Workshop times and topics will be released late October so you can create your own schedule!

Leadership

Entrepreneurship

DECA Competition

Sport & Hospitality

Finance

Advisor Clock Hours

Relive the 2025 FLC!

2025 KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

GET INVOLVED

When an individual, company, foundation or group supports Washington DECA, they are making a long-term investment in developing the future leaders in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Learn how you can cultivate a strong and thriving environment for Washington DECA’s emerging leaders.