Cullen Watanuki is a four-year DECA member and a senior from John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights. At Hersey, he proudly leads his DECA chapter as their co-president. Under his leadership, Hersey has expanded to over 170 members and has tripled ICDC qualifications.

Cullen’s dad was a DECA chapter advisor and has been raised around DECA. He knew he wanted to join DECA his freshman year. After attending his first meeting he became determined to make DECA part of his high school experience. Throughout his time at Hersey, he has competed in the Travel and Tourism Team Decision Making (TTDM) event and the Community Giving Project Management (PMCG) event, and will continue to compete in the Travel and Tourism Team Decision Making event this year, while also competing in the Franchise Business Plan event. Cullen has competed at the District 214 competition, North Suburban Sectionals, ILCDC, and ICDC. He is now a two-time regional champion, three-time state finalist, and two-time ICDC qualifier.

Cullen knows that DECA is more than just your typical club. DECA has fostered some of his closest friendships and created some of his fondest memories. From enjoying a Joelati in Anaheim to late nights working on his written project, DECA has instilled the value of hard work, camaraderie, and passion. It’s safe to say Cullen understands what it means to be DECAcated.

This year, Cullen looks forward to strengthening his network with the members of Illinois DECA. As part of the state action team, he’ll be focused on his RED plan -recruitment, engagement, and developing leaders- to help elevate Illinois DECA to the next level.

Outside of DECA, you can find Cullen in a plethora of clubs and activities. At Hersey, he participates in Peer Tutoring, ONE Hersey Freshman mentorship, and Hersey’s IDEA team. Additionally, Cullen is the captain of his varsity swim team, an NHS officer, and represents Hersey on the District 214 Superintendent and School Board committee where he advocates for the needs of over 12,000 students.

Outside of Hersey, Cullen swims with his local USA Swimming program, Alligator Aquatics. He also works for the Arlington Heights Park District as a lifeguard, swim lesson instructor, lesson coordinator, and swim coach. At the AHPD, Cullen was recognized by the executive director for his outstanding service to the swim lesson program. When he is not in the water, you can find him up in the clouds where he is currently training to become a private pilot.

Cullen is ecstatic to serve the members of our incredible association and can’t wait to help Illinois “Be The One” this year!