Manderson MBA Case Team students made a strong showing in the National Black Graduate Case Competition last week. The competition team, which consisted of Deborah Oberkor, Kabria Thomas, Tierra Haywood, and Tylan Farrokhnia reached the finals in a field of 24 teams. The team developed a strategy for Jeep to connect with African American consumers through authentic representation and community events.
“For the past month, I worked on a cross-functional team to successfully deliver a marketing strategy to senior leaders of Stellantis, specifically for their Jeep line of vehicles,” second-year MBA student Kabria Thomas reflected. “We spent 80+ hours — in addition to being a full-time MBA student, work with my graduate assistantship, and other responsibilities — working on a case. While I wondered at times if we’d set a record for hours spent on a case, I discovered the joy of collaboration. The true beauty of this journey was not just in reaching the finals — supported enthusiastically by Manderson — but in the camaraderie and the shared commitment of our team. One seasoned judge remarked that it was the toughest decision in seven years, reaffirming our effort’s impact. This experience taught me that true success lies in the pursuit and the people beside you. It’s also a reminder that when you give your all, regardless of the outcome, you walk away richer in experience and relationships.”
Manderson Director of Corporate Partnerships Connie Chambers and other MBA students joined the team for the final round and cheered them on.
“This result is a great way to start our competition year,” said Manderson Case Team advisor Quoc Hoang. “I look forward to another successful year with our 24 Case Team students.”