The ACG Cup is a case study competition hosted by the Association for Corporate Growth that is designed to give students from leading MBA programs across the country real world experience and invaluable insights into mergers and acquisitions, investment banking, financial advisory and private equity. Each case study provides students with a unique opportunity to present valuation, capital markets and M&A strategic advice to a panel of seasoned M&A professionals from within the ACG community. The competition is carried out through a series of intra-school and regional competitions, with regional winners awarded the prestigious ACG Cup title and cash awards.
The chance to represent UST in next week’s regional finals attracted 5 UST MBA teams yesterday. Each team had one week to analyze a financial case and develop a compelling 20 minute presentation, given to three ACG judges: Jeff Arnesen of Houlihan Lokey; Alan Thometz of Grant Thornton; and Andy Platt of Norwest Equity Partners.
These judges had a significant challenge picking the best from among six competing presentations (Concordia University also fielded a team). Last year we were thrilled that not one but two UST teams were selected to go on to the final round. So you can imagine the excitement when, after the dust had settled and the final slide presented, that not two but three UST teams made the final cut!
Congratulations to Round 1’s winning teams:
- Team 1 – Kevin Hejna, Brad Maiers, Shawn Moses, Sam Sands
- Team 2 – Naren Heart, Grant Seipkes
- Team 3 – Ahmed El Shourbagy, John Quinn, Jake Heidkamp
In speaking to all the competitors after the event, it was clear that there were no losers, as all who participated gained valuable analytical and presentation experience as well as useful contacts in the Financial investment community.
Next week these three teams will face off against the Round 1 winner from University of Iowa, here at Schulze Auditorium, at 5 p.m. Thursday, February 11. Last year’s top-ranked UST team came in second to a winning Iowa contingent, so this year represents an opportunity to even the score.
