SRU Marketing Students Soar to National Recognition in AMA Case Competition
A dynamic team of marketing students from Slippery Rock University (SRU) is making waves as they claim a spot among the top contenders in the prestigious American Marketing Association (AMA) Collegiate Case Competition. The finalists will showcase their innovative business strategies in a captivating presentation at the upcoming AMA International Collegiate Conference on April 5, set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, Louisiana.
Competing Among the Best
This year’s competition assembles elite marketing students from across the nation to tackle a real-world business challenge crafted by industry giants Adobe and Deloitte Digital. These co-sponsors present participants with a unique marketing problem, empowering students to develop actionable and strategic marketing solutions.
Team SRU, handpicked for their talent and creative thinking, consists of:
- James McGrody – Senior Marketing Major from North Huntingdon (Norwin High School)
- Katelyn Peterson – Senior Marketing Major from New Castle (Shenango High School)
- Melina Putt – Graduate Student in Business Administration from Elizabethtown (Lower Dauphin High School)
- Payton Tallat – Senior Marketing Major from Bethel Park (Bethel Park High School)
“This is an exciting opportunity and we’re proud to represent the University,” said Katelyn Peterson. “We have a great team and we’re grateful to advance and have this experience. It will enhance our résumés and provide fantastic networking opportunities.”
The Path to the Finals
SRU’s impressive advancement to the finals was achieved through a meticulous selection process overseen by a panel of AMA judges composed of esteemed college faculty and seasoned marketing professionals. The team’s exceptional submission was recognized for its thorough situation analysis, extensive market research, and well-developed tactics.
“This is an extraordinary achievement for our students, especially considering the prestigious institutions we competed against,” remarked Jeananne Nicholls, SRU Professor of Business and Co-Adviser for the AMA Collegiate Chapter. “This recognition highlights the hard work and dedication of our students and faculty. Our revamped curriculum has empowered students to excel in real-world marketing scenarios, contributing significantly to this year’s success.”
A Learning Experience Like No Other
The SRU team formed out of a challenging 400-level Marketing Seminar class, where students delve into practical marketing applications, conduct both primary and secondary research, and present data-driven recommendations tailored to the case sponsor.
“I’ve learned a lot during my last four years at SRU,” Peterson shared. “It’s been a very personal experience, where professors know you and actively engage with you in the learning process.”
What’s at Stake?
In this highly competitive final round, Team SRU will deliver their strategic presentation in front of another panel of judges. The stakes are high: the winning team will earn $2,000 for their college’s AMA chapter, while second and third place finishers will receive $1,000 and $500, respectively.
The Competition Landscape
SRU will battle against formidable competitors, including:
- British Columbia Institute of Technology
- Capilano University
- Indiana University, Bloomington
- Montana State University, Bozeman
- North Central College
- Temple University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Discover More
For enthusiasts wanting to follow the competition or learn more about what it takes to excel in the marketing world, detailed information about the AMA Collegiate Case Competition is available on the AMA website. Additionally, for insights into the robust marketing programs at SRU, visit the Finance, Accounting, Marketing and Economics Department’s webpage.
As Team SRU prepares to take the stage in New Orleans, the excitement builds—not only for the challenge ahead but for the incredible opportunities that lie beyond this competition. Their journey is a testament to the power of dedication, strategy, and innovation in marketing!
