Students win national business competition

Four students from the Seidman College of Business took first place at the eighth annual Bowersox Undergraduate Supply Chain Challenge held at Michigan State University in November.

Daniel Coblentz, Ryan Davis, Scott Dion and Rachel Travis competed against 13 highly competitive teams from universities across the country.

The Bowersox Challenge incorporates a simulation-based approach to a business competition. Students must use their understanding of supply chain topics and apply it to a simulation that is designed to mimic some of the struggles experienced within the business community.

Team members worked through 13 business cycles related to the steps of supply chain management: manufacturing, procurement, operations and demand management. Decisions had to be made within a set time frame to simulate a real-world business environment.

"The talent of our business school students is consistently reflected in the relatively high placement at the Bowersox Challenge," said Anton Fenik, assistant professor of marketing. "This year, our team members successfully synchronized their skills, and through relentless preparations brought home the first place trophy."

Other schools participating in the competition included the University of Wisconsin, Western Michigan University, West Virginia University, Wayne State University, Ohio State University, Northeastern University, University of Miami, Duquesne University, Central Michigan University and University of Arkansas.