MPA Expands Opportunities In Business And Entrepreneurship

September 3, 2026

What started with an idea from two Mounds Park Academy students is becoming a new opportunity for students across the Upper School. MPA has officially been approved as a DECA chapter, bringing competitive business experiences, leadership development, and entrepreneurship opportunities to campus for the first time.  Student leaders Michael Mao and Arda Gunes helped lead the effort to bring DECA to MPA, working with school leadership to move the idea from possibility to an officially recognized chapter.

“Starting a DECA chapter at MPA took a lot of planning, communication, and persistence. We had to introduce the idea, explain the benefits of DECA, and work through the steps needed to officially establish the chapter. It also took a lot of preparation behind the scenes to make sure we had the right support and a plan for how the chapter would operate. Seeing it finally become official made all of that effort worth it,” Michael said. 

DECA is an international student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs through experiences in business, finance, marketing, hospitality, and management. Students have opportunities to participate in competitions, develop leadership and public speaking skills, solve real-world business problems, and connect with professionals. 

Chief financial and operations officer Robert Perez, who will serve as MPA’s DECA advisor this year, sees the organization as a natural fit for MPA. 

“MPA has always emphasized critical thinking, leadership, creativity, and preparing students to make meaningful contributions in the world. DECA aligns naturally with those values because it challenges students to solve real business problems, think strategically, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively,” Perez said. 

For Michael, one of the most exciting parts is giving other MPA students access to those experiences. 

“I’m most excited to give MPA students the opportunity to compete in real business and marketing events while developing skills that they can use beyond the classroom. I’m especially excited to see our members prepare for competitions, work together, and represent MPA at DECA events. I also hope DECA can become a place where students who are interested in business can challenge themselves, meet new people, and discover what they’re capable of,” Michael said. 

Students don’t need any experience to join. “DECA is for everyone. You don’t have to know a lot about business to get involved. It is the perfect chance to develop public speaking, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, networking, and confidence. Students also get competition and travel opportunities while working on realistic situations instead of only learning theory,” Arda said. 

The launch of DECA also connects to MPA’s plans to expand opportunities for students interested in business and entrepreneurship.  

“Becoming a DECA school is an important step in expanding opportunities for students interested in business and entrepreneurship. As we continue exploring the addition of a business fundamentals course and related programming, DECA provides an immediate platform for students to engage with business concepts in meaningful and hands-on ways,” Perez said. 

During its first year, members will help establish the chapter, participate in leadership activities, and prepare for competitive events at the district and state levels. And for Arda, the hope is that what begins this year will become a lasting part of MPA. 

“I want this program to become an established part of MPA culture like Speech and Debate. I want this to be more than just something Michael and I created. We want the younger students to join and then in the future get leadership roles, compete at higher levels, and for the chapter to grow to even more students. Most of all, I hope we can build something that lasts well beyond our time at MPA,” Arda said. 

For Michael and Arda, bringing DECA to MPA began with seeing an opportunity that didn’t yet exist and deciding to create it. As they partner with other students to build the chapter, they’ll be doing what MPA students are encouraged to do every day: think deeply, take initiative, collaborate with others, and turn ideas into meaningful action.