Nick O'Halloran is a senior at Downers Grove South and a second-year DECA member. He is tremendously excited and honored to serve as Vice President on the Illinois DECA State Action Team, as he sees a bright future for Illinois DECA. Nick's objective is to help lead the DECA program to a new frontier of success, innovation, and enjoyment!

Although having only started DECA last year, Nick quickly developed a great passion for the organization. As someone who was already intrigued by business, entrepreneurship, and leadership; DECA was a perfect fit for him. This program has upskilled his knowledge, professionalism, and confidence immensely. In his first year, Nick competed in Marketing Communications at the regional and state competitions. This year he will compete in Human Resources Management and the Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan, with big aspirations to excel at the international level. 

DECA has taught Nick that integrating competition into learning produces the best results out of people. This competitiveness pushes them to reach their maximum potential and surpass limitations they may have set for themselves. Growing up as a multi-sport athlete, Nick enjoys this competitive approach to education. Other elements Nick has developed from DECA are networking and collaboration. Nick loves being able to interact with so many like-minded and dedicated individuals all across DECA, and share ideas with the future business leaders of the world. Nick enjoys collaborating with his peers to reach goals and solve problems. He has the ability and strengths to take the lead. This optimistic view on group work excites Nick to connect with many emerging leaders and entrepreneurs this year.

During his year as a state officer, Nick is striving to raise recognition and awareness for the program that he is super passionate about; DECA of course! One goal that Nick has for ILDECA is to spread awareness and promote the program to junior high students and underclassmen. Not even knowing the club existed until his junior year, Nick aims to organize events and social media marketing for DECA, so students of all ages can be educated on the benefits of the organization before they even step foot in high school.

Outside of the SAT, Nick is a Vice President of the DGS DECA chapter. Nick is also an active member of NHS, NTHS, and a leader of Athletes Committed to Excellence club. He is the Varsity captain of the school track and field team, as well as his club team. In track he competes in the decathlon, with his favorite events being Pole Vault, Long Jump, and the 100m dash. Nick played football and basketball his first three years of high school, but is maximizing his senior year by training all year for track, to provide himself the best opportunities to continue his dream of running in college! 

Nick is excited to be on a team that leaves a long lasting legacy and makes 2024 an amazing year for ILDECA!