Michigan State University team takes first place at inaugural National Impact Case Competition

From left: Shadi Khamis, Taha Hyder Ryan Brick, Vienna Thieu

The inaugural National Impact Case Competition, hosted by the Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa, challenged teams of undergraduates from all over the country to apply business knowledge, creativity, and strategic thinking in a real-world setting. Teams of four students worked for two weeks to analyze a business case before presenting recommendations to a panel of judges, including some from related industries.  

This year, Michigan State University brought home the 1st place title and a $5,000 reward. For the Broad College of Business, the NICC offered an opportunity for students to apply their classroom knowledge in a high-stakes and collaborative environment.   

“NICC was an opportunity to represent Michigan State University on a high level,” said Shadi Khamis, a team member and junior in supply chain management. “It allowed us to elevate the reputation of the Broad College of Business and demonstrate that our community stands for hard work, discipline, and excellence, and we hope to continue showcasing this in all aspects of business.” 

The MSU team approached the topic of developing a triple-bottom-line stadium plan for the Krause Group that balanced financial performance with social and environmental impact. Their plan incorporated elements like downtown walkability, solar and EV-powered operations, and a circular economy system.  

“Our team approached the problem by first layering out a clear understanding of what we were being asked to solve, then breaking the work into manageable pieces so each person could lean into their strengths,” Ryan Brick, a marketing senior, explained.  

Taha Hyder, a finance junior, shared, “A lot of it was about completing and complementing each other’s ideas. As a team, we were always going to be greater than the sum of our parts. We also learned to have full faith and confidence in our teammates.” 

For Broad College faculty, competitions like NICC are more than just resume builders. They are formative professional moments.  

“First, I hope the students gain confidence. Performing very well at a national competition should show them that they have what it takes,” said Wyatt Schrock, associate professor of marketing and the coach for the team. “I hope that their performance at the NICC shows them that some of the best and brightest in the entire country are right here at the Eli Broad College of Business. Second, I hope the students can look back at our performance and view it as a time when preparation and hard work are paid off. Third, I hope they made or strengthened some friendships that will last a very long time.” 

For the student competitors, earning first place was a defining milestone. 

“Earning 1st place was a testament to our hard work and dedication,” said Vienna Thieu, senior in management. “I genuinely enjoyed working on this case and was confident in our preparation. To see all our hours of research, brainstorming, and rehearsals come together in a winning finish was incredibly rewarding.”