CAMP HILL, PA (March 2025) The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) has selected Emma Bianco, a senior at Bethel Park High School, as the recipient of the $1,000 Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) Scholarship.
Bianco, Co-President of her DECA chapter, has excelled in leadership roles and competitions throughout high school, fueling her passion for a future career in speech pathology. Her achievements include first place in Retail Merchandising at the district level and qualifying for national competition as a sophomore.
“We are thrilled to award this scholarship to Emma Bianco, who exemplifies dedication, leadership, and hard work,” said Alex Baloga, president and CEO of PFMA. “As a fellow West Virginia University alum, it’s especially rewarding to see Emma heading there for her next chapter. We wish her all the best as she continues her journey.”
Bianco’s DECA involvement extends beyond competition—she has led community service initiatives, including fundraising for a local teacher undergoing cancer treatment and recruiting new chapter members. She also earned second place in the Point Park Pitch competition and developed event concepts for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
“DECA has provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop communication, leadership, and organizational skills that will support my future career in speech pathology,” Bianco wrote in her scholarship statement. “This scholarship will help me continue my education and give back to the community that has supported me.”
In addition to her DECA involvement, Bianco has participated in notable projects, including pitching an event concept for the Pittsburgh Pirates and securing second place in the Point Park Pitch competition. Her dedication to both academic excellence and community service highlights her as a well-rounded leader with a bright future ahead.
DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. PFMA proudly sponsors this scholarship annually to support the next generation of business and community leaders.
About PFMA
The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, a statewide trade association, advocates the views of more than 600 convenience stores, supermarkets, independent grocers, wholesalers and consumer product vendors. PFMA members operate more than 3,000 stores and employ more than 300,000 Pennsylvanians. For more information on PFMA, visit pfma.org.
