UW-Whitewater Collegiate DECA students compete in virtual innovation challenge
May 14, 2020
Written by Dana Krems
As the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic disrupted conferences, celebrations and other gatherings across the nation, many organizations adapted in order to hold virtual events this spring.
The Wisconsin State Director for Collegiate DECA recently collaborated with DECA colleagues in Minnesota and Texas to host a virutal Collegiate DECA Innovation Challenge for the first time ever. Students in the three states competed individually in marketing, finance, hospitality or operations. Cases were built around business challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Students submitted video solutions, and finalists were selected to present on a final case – and compete for cash prizes.
Lauren Reid earned second place overall in the hospitality category, while Dylan Otwell earned third place in operations. Other UW-Whitewater students earning finalist positions included Evan Nightingale for marketing, Emily Hayden for hospitality, Emma Sinden for operations and Brendan Clementi for finance.
While this was not the national competition the DECA members prepared for all year, they were able to showcase their abilities and demonstrate the professionalism, commitment and talent of UW-Whitewater students and faculty advisors. Despite the challenges faced this spring, UW-Whitewater Collegiate DECA competed at an exceptional level.
We congratulate these students as the 2019-20 academic year comes to a close.