The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) has named Rishabh Jain of Downingtown STEM Academy as its 2026 PA DECA Scholar.
Jain, a senior, earned the recognition through four years of competitive achievement, chapter leadership and community entrepreneurship in DECA. At the Pennsylvania State Career Development Conference, Jain placed first in entrepreneurship events. He followed that with a fourth-place finish at the International Career Development Conference, where he also received a top exam award with a 92 percent score.
Jain serves as Pennsylvania DECA District 6 Representative, leading conference planning and supporting chapter development across the region. As VP of finance for his chapter, he helped manage more than $200,000 in chapter funds.
He also launched cluster exam practice sessions attended by more than 60 students and contributed to the development of ClusterMaxx, a platform supporting DECA members nationwide.
Outside of DECA, Jain founded a youth basketball coaching business and organized a community mental health initiative for teens — efforts that reflect his stated goal of becoming a social entrepreneur.
“I am incredibly grateful to the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association for this scholarship and for their continued investment in student leaders across the state,” Jain said. “This support not only recognizes my work through DECA, but also motivates me to continue pursuing excellence in business and leadership.”
PFMA’s investment in the next generation
Alex Baloga, president and CEO of PFMA, said Jain exemplifies what the organization looks for when supporting student leadership.
“Rishabh represents exactly the kind of driven, thoughtful, and community-focused leader we’re proud to support,” Baloga said. “Through DECA, students gain real-world business skills that translate directly into leadership in the food and beverage industry and beyond. We’re excited to see what he accomplishes next.”
PFMA represents nearly 500 member companies operating thousands of retail food stores, production facilities and distribution centers across Pennsylvania, collectively employing more than 350,000 Pennsylvanians.
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