To gather, to learn, to laud. That was the purpose of the 2010-2011 Case Competition Recognition Luncheon held on April 19, 2011 at the College of Business Administration at Florida International University (FIU). More than 60 undergraduate and graduate students, professors and corporate sponsors were invited to the special event.

“There was quite a bit of talent in that room,” said event organizer Ellie Browner, retired director of graduate admissions in the Chapman Graduate School, who now helps with case competitions. “It was gratifying to hear how these opportunities profoundly benefit our students.”

Seven individuals involved in different case competitions each made a five-minute presentation, giving a brief synopsis of their event. They were Elsania Galeano, Carlos Gomez, Jared Leichner, Jose Mena, Yasnay Montalvo, Michael Perez and Helen Simon, director of the State Farm Financial Literacy Lab.

“The students enthusiastically described how these experiences took them far beyond classroom learning,” said Browner, who added that she hopes the recognition luncheon can become an annual event.

“When I heard all the information, I admit I regretted not getting involved with case competitions earlier in my academic life,” said Galeano, a graduating senior earning two bachelor’s degrees, one in accounting and one in business administration. “They are excellent avenues to increase your learning base.”

FIU students competed in the following case competitions in 2010-2011:

• Association for Corporate Growth (ACG)
• AMA Nintendo
• Consortium for Undergraduate International Business Education (CUIBE)
• Intercollegiate MBA Case Competition
• Investment G.A.M.E. Forum
• Johnson & Johnson
• KPMG
• xTax

Students receive support and commitment from administration and faculty.

At the luncheon, Executive Dean Joyce J. Elam told the group of her pride in their accomplishments.

“It’s so obvious that she supports what we do and truly cares about our activities,” Galeano said.

Faculty members devote countless hours to coach and judge competitions, Browner said, saying it was a pleasure to hear their work recognized at the luncheon.

Mena, an MBA student, agreed, emphasizing that the faculty members’ commitment is critical.

“They give us many tips and directions on how to approach the competition,” he said. “They always open their doors to us, and we definitely appreciate their support and motivation.”

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