A University of Mary Washington capstone experience offered a sweet treat to business students this semester.
Teams from the 400-level Strategic Management course came together to analyze a business scenario involving a four-way merger that produced Canadian ice cream company Top Glaciers. They presented their findings – including proposals for how to increase profits – last week at the annual Endowed Live Case Competition. The Shark Tank-like event, held in Woodard Hall, features real business professionals as judges, real cash prizes for winners and scoops of real-world experience.
“An event like this simulates real-world scenarios and allows students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom throughout their academic careers,” said College of Business Dean Filiz Tabak. “It helps them develop practical skills such as presenting in front of experienced judges, problem-solving, critical thinking, leadership and team building. These are invaluable skills for career success in the business world.”
Sprinkled on top, the winners – seniors Jenna Diehl and Brian Gaydos, who put forth a partnership and co-packaging plan – walked away with prize money of $3,500. Second place received $1,000; third place took $500.
“The winning team really knocked our socks off,” said Andrew Blate ’04, who sponsors the competition along with business partner Craig Schneibolk of the D.C.-area remodeling company Beautiful Home Services. Read more.