2026 SG-FECC Program Book | 13th Annual Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition

2026 COMPETITION BOOK

13th Annual Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition | January 7-10, 2026

THE UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT | GROSSMAN SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

Welcome Letter from Dean Sanjay Sharma

University of Vermont Grossman School of Business

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 13th annual Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition (SG-FECC) at the University of Vermont. This event brings together exceptional graduate and undergraduate teams from leading business schools worldwide to analyze complex cases focused on family enterprises—organizations that are the backbone of the global economy.

Since its inception in 2013, SG-FECC has become a premier platform for academic excellence and international collaboration. Often called the “World Cup of Family Business,” the 2026 SG-FECC features 21 teams, 54 Grossman students, 105 coaches and competitors, and 51 judges representing 11 countries across four continents.

At the Grossman School of Business, we believe deeply in the power of experiential learning—learning by doing. SG-FECC exemplifies this philosophy, offering participants the opportunity to apply theory to real-world challenges, sharpen critical thinking, and collaborate across cultures.

We are thrilled to host this event in beautiful Vermont, a place that inspires reflection, innovation, and connection. May this competition provide an enriching experience that sparks creativity, builds lasting friendships, and strengthens the future of family enterprise worldwide.

Best regards,

Sanjay Sharma Dean, Grossman School of Business

ABOUT SG-FECC

The annual Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition (SG-FECC) prepares participants to understand the critical issues that are unique to family enterprise by applying the knowledge and expertise they have developed in the classroom towards solving complex family business cases. During four tough rounds of competition, teams present their case to a distinguished panel of judges who will determine which group best understood, analyzed and presented the case.

Held in Burlington, Vermont, participants will have the opportunity to discover one of the America’s Best Downtowns and a Top 10 City for Outdoor Recreation. Situated within an easy drive of Montreal, Boston, and New York City, Burlington offers many convenient opportunities for arriving, exploring and departing. SG-FECC will also feature many events other than the competition itself, allowing students and coaches the chance to interact with industry professionals and sponsoring organizations during select program meals, social events and local trips.

INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADES

International Achievement Award

The 2023 International Achievement Award from the Family Firm Institute (FFI), the premier global association for family enterprise professionals, was officially presented to the Grossman School of Business for the Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition (SG-FECC) at the FFI Annual Global Conference on October 26, 2023 in New York City.

This annual award recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding achievement in furthering the understanding of international issues and global networks in multi-generational, family-owned enterprises. “It’s an honor to be recognized by FFI for our work in the family business education, research, and practice with SG-FECC. FFI sets the bar high as a global leader through their work advancing family enterprises,” said SG-FECC founder and co-chair Pramodita “Dita” Sharma

288 Student Teams

1,139 Coaches & Competitors

359 UVM Student Organizers

A GLOBAL EVENT

738 Judges

ESTABLISHED IN 2013

LEADERSHIP TEAM

The Grossman School of Business is accredited by AACSB International, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education and has been earned by fewer than 5 percent of the world’s business programs.

Student Organizers

Victoria Madison, Jordan Dawley, Grace Berry, Linzhi Cardinal, Ozzie VanHendrick, Marley St Pierre, Noah Burnham, Allison Kingsley, Aaron Solomon, Alaina Cimonetti, James Millerick, Lindsey Wolf, Gabe Poritzky, Megan Gensel

Not Pictured: Charlie Droppo

Faculty & Staff

Thomas Chittenden, Ellenanne Santos, Ben Chiappinelli, Ellery Spillane, Jana Beagley, Pramodita Sharma, Steven Gagner, Evelyn Micelotta, Dylan Wintersteen, Sarah O’Sullivan

Not Pictured: Heather Winther

Competition, Recruitment & IT

The Competition, Recruitment & IT subcommittee is comprised of senior lead Grace Berry and junior leads Charlie Droppo, Megan Gensel, and Ozzie VanHendrick. The team is further assisted by Senior Lecturer Thomas Chittenden.

Student Leadership

Grace Berry

Grace.Berry@uvm.edu

Grace is entering her third year with SG-FECC and her second year on the leadership team where she helps facilitate teamwork, coordinate competition logistics, and expand student volunteer engagement. As a junior at UVM’s Grossman School of Business, she studies Business Analytics and Accounting with an Entrepreneurship theme. At UVM, Grace serves on the executive board of the Grossman Case Competition Association, is part of the Trailblazers Leadership Program, and serves on the Grossman Student Advisory Committee. She has also represented GSB at three international case competitions. Next semester, she will bring her analytical and entrepreneurial strengths to a co-op at Wayfair, gaining real-world experience in operations and strategy.

Charlie Droppo

Charles.Droppo@uvm.edu

Charlie Droppo is a senior at the Grossman School of Business studying Finance & Marketing. This is his third-year volunteering for SG-FECC, and he is honored to be a Student Lead Coordinator on the Competition, Recruitment & IT team. Previously, Charlie was selected to be an Ambassador and a Room Coordinator. Volunteering for FECC has been an incredibly rewarding experience and has influenced his career aspirations to work in Consulting post-grad.

Megan Gensel

Megan.Gensel@uvm.edu

Megan Gensel is a junior with a concentration in Finance and Marketing with a theme in Global Business. She is a student-athlete on the Cross Country and Track & Field teams at UVM. She is also a member of the Trailblazer Leadership Program and the Grossman Case Competition Association, with plans to represent her school in future case competitions. Meg plans to get her J.D. in Business Law after graduating. This is her first year on the SG-FECC Leadership Team and hopes the skills and knowledge she has gained at UVM helps to make this competition the best it can be.

Ozzie VanHendrick

Ozmond.Vanhendrick@uvm.edu

Ozzie VanHendrick is a dual Finance and Accounting major with a theme in Global Business. At UVM, Ozzie plays on the club soccer team, serves as a Resident Advisor, works as a Teaching Assistant, and is a member of the Grossman Student Advisory Committee. Growing up around parents who own a small local pottery business taught Ozzie the value of hard work and compassion in business. He hopes to combine his interests in finance and accounting to pursue a future career in wealth management.

Logistics, Social Events & Sustainability

The Logistics, Social Events & Sustainability subcommittee is comprised of senior leads Jordan Dawley, Aaron Solomon, and Marley St Pierre and junior lead Victoria Madison. The team is further assisted by GSB Event Coordinators Ellery Spillane and Ellenanne Santos.

Student Leadership

Jordan Dawley

Jordan.Dawley@uvm.edu

Jordan Dawley is a junior at the University of Vermont studying finance with a theme in entrepreneurship. He is in his second year on the SG-FECC leadership team and currently serves as a Senior Lead Coordinator on the Events and Logistics team. Previously, he worked as a business development intern supporting a researcher in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. This semester, he will complete a co-op at BETA Technologies in Burlington, focusing on financial planning and analysis. Outside of academics and work, Jordan enjoys skiing and mountain biking.

Aaron Solomon

Aaron.Solomon@uvm.edu

Aaron is a senior at the Grossman School of Business, concentrating in marketing and sustainability, while also pursuing a minor in food systems. He has been working in the events industry for over five years, including in theater, professional and collegiate athletics, concerts, and conferences. He’s thrilled to join the SG-FECC team again as a senior lead coordinator, focusing on venue management, catering, and audio/visual technology. After graduation, Aaron hopes to continue pursuing a career in event management, creating and facilitating memorable experiences across a variety of event formats.

Marley St Pierre

Marley.St-Pierre@uvm.edu

Marley is a fourth-year undergraduate student concentrating in finance with a theme in global business. Marley has been to two international case competitions in Mexico and Rotterdam where she won the ROCA 2024 Best Presenter Award. Over the Summer Marley worked at UBS in NYC working on various credit teams in DCM and sales. She is also the Co-President of the Grossman Case Competition Association.

Victoria Madison

Victoria.Madison@uvm.edu

Victoria is a sophomore at UVM majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in finance and pursuing a second degree in economics, and she expects to graduate early. Now in her second year with SG-FECC, Victoria serves on the Events, Logistics, and Sustainability Team. She is also involved in the Trailblazers Leadership Program, Grossman Case Competition Association, and is leading a sustainability initiative supported by a Sustainable Campus Fund grant. This summer, she is interning in investment banking at Citizens in New York, focusing on digital infrastructure M&A, and hopes to continue in this field after graduation.

Judge Selection & Sponsorship

The Judge Selection & Sponsorship subcommittee is comprised of senior lead Lindsey Wolf and junior leads Linzhi Cardinal and Gabe Poritzky. James Millerick works with the team as the Senior Sponsor Chair. The team is further assisted by Professor Pramodita Sharma and Associate Professor Evelyn Micelotta.

Student Leadership

James Millerick

James.Millerick@uvm.edu

James Millerick is a Senior concentrating in Finance and Accounting with a theme in Global Business. After graduation, he plans to pursue a master’s degree and sit for his CPA exam. At UVM, he is involved as an Alumni and Development Associate for the Grossman School of Business, supporting SG-FECC’s fundraising efforts. He is also a supervisor for the Campus Recreation sports programs department. His passions are problem solving and leadership, which he aims to bring to every team he works with. This summer he will be interning at EY in Boston in their audit department, where he looks forward to gaining industry experience and the skills necessary to continue down the public accounting career path.

Lindsey Wolf

Lindsey.Wolf@uvm.edu

Lindsey is a senior concentrating in finance and marketing with a theme in global business. This past summer, she gained foundational experience in finance as a Wealth Management Intern at Maple Capital Management. During the school year, she works as a Data Analyst and Special Events Planner for the University Program Board, where she helps shape memorable campus experiences through data-driven decision-making. With strong leadership skills, love of organization, and enthusiasm for tackling big projects, Lindsey is pursuing career opportunities in project management and business development. She’s motivated by work that brings people together and improves how teams operate.

Linzhi Cardinal

Linzhi.Cardinal@uvm.edu

Linzhi is a third-year undergraduate student concentrating in Marketing with a theme in Entrepreneurship. This is Linzhi’s first year on the Judge Recruitment, Selection and Orientation sub-committee. Linzhi is responsible for communicating with judges and supporting the judging process. She spent her summer working as the Assistant General Manager of Farmers and Foragers where she expanded her knowledge, experience, and leadership in hospitality industry. With her experience with SG-FECC and working in the hospitality industry, Linzhi hopes to pursue a career in Event Planning and Organization in the future.

Gabe Poritzky

Gabriel.Poritzky@uvm.edu

Gabe is a Sophomore Business student, concentrating in business analytics and a theme of entrepreneurship. At UVM, Gabe is involved in Greek life, entrepreneurship club, and was an SG-FECC ambassador last year. He highly considering a career in food service, following his parents’ steps in being family business owners. Gabe also is a student pilot and loves to ski.

Website, Media & Communication

The Website, Media & Communications subcommittee is comprised of senior leads Noah Burnham and Allison Kingsley and junior lead Alaina Cimonetti. The team is further assisted by GSB Media and Communications Staff Ben Chiappinelli, Dylan Wintersteen, and Heather Winther.

Student Leadership

Noah Burnham

Noah.Burnham@uvm.edu

Noah Burnham is a senior at the University of Vermont studying computer science and math. He serves as Senior Lead Coordinator on the Website, Media, and Communications team, managing the LinkedIn page and website. Noah began with SG-FECC as an ambassador his freshman year and has been on the Leadership Team since his sophomore year. He volunteers at the on-campus food pantry and works with the Catamount Innovation Fund to build a business connecting local farmers with grocery stores and restaurants. Passionate about technology, skiing, aviation, and the outdoors, Noah plans to pursue a career as a software engineer and is excited to meet this year’s participants at SG-FECC!

Allison Kingsley

Allison.E.Kingsley@uvm.edu

Allison Kingsley is a senior with concentrations in Business Analytics and Marketing and a minor in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism. In her third year on the SG-FECC Leadership Team, she coordinates the competition’s media efforts, including creating the event program book. At UVM, Allison works as a peer tutor, captains her ultimate frisbee team, and received her Hospitality Management Certificate while interning at The Essex Resort & Spa. She also works as a Data Analytics and Paid Media Intern at Karen Fahey Advertising, leveraging her analytical mindset to develop client reporting and create campaign optimizations. After graduation, Allison hopes to work at an analytically focused marketing agency within the hospitality and tourism industry.

Alaina Cimonetti

Alaina.Cimonetti@uvm.edu

Alaina Cimonetti is a sophomore at the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business, studying Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and Entrepreneurship and a minor in Equine Studies. She serves as the Administrative Assistant for the Town of Shrewsbury, is a member of the Trail Blazer’s Leadership Cohort, a student of the Patrick Leahy Honors College, and an avid case competition competitor. Alaina brings a strong background in communication, organization, and design across her academic and professional roles.

UNDERGRADUATE TEAMS

Teams

Babson College

United States of

America

Team Coach

Alisa Jno-Charles ajnocharles@babson.edu

Alisa’s research examines how family dynamics and parental entrepreneurship affect children’s outcomes. Her goal is to combine her extensive professional, entrepreneurial, and family business experience to help families and policymakers make better decisions for the next generation.

Student Competitors

Aryaa Dixit adixit3@babson.edu

Aryaa Dixit is a current freshman at Babson College. She is interested in finance and strategy and values making social and sustainable change. She currently works as a consultant for small startups with the Babson Consulting Program. She hopes to use this experience to step into a career in consulting.

Jean Fabre jfabre1@babson.edu

I am entrepreneurship student launching a business fraternity to foster innovation and connections. I am also involved in Fragonard, my 100 years old family business working on expanding it in the United States. My career goal is to become a resolute leader and help people.

Paraskevas Fotiadis Pfotiadis1@babson.edu

My goal is to grow tech/family ventures that solve real-world problems. I’m proud of founding Persephone’s Basket, coaching rowing teams, leading cultural activities, and building communities that strive for innovation.

Bryan Gonzalez bgonzalez1@babson.edu

Hey y’all, my name is Bryan. This is my first time participating in SG-FECC and I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge gained in my future endeavors. I am proud of being part of my high school Euro Challenge team that placed top 3 in the country. In addition, I am proud of being a 2x state qualifier for United States Academic Decathlon.

Bishop’s University Canada

Max Jacques mjacques@korokgroup.com

Team Coach

Former FECC competitor in 2020, Max has been coaching Bishop’s for 4 years. After participating in multiple competitions at BU, including being on the NIBS 2020 Champion team, he brings his experience working in his uncle’s family business to his coaching. He aspires to be the successor eventually.

Charli Bousada

cbousada24@ubishops.ca

Student Competitors

Charli is a second-year Finance major with a minor in Economics. She works as a Research Assistant on a student-led investment portfolio, manages finances for the Bishop’s Charity Fashion Show, and serves as Director of External Affairs for WIBS. She also tutors peers and aims to one day lead her family enterprise.

Olivier Pontbriand opontbriand23@ubishops.ca

Simon Salvail

Finance major and Strategist for the SEED Portfolio, a C$1M TSX-only equity fund, leading macro analysis and our sector allocation strategy. Currently work in FinTech. Passionate about capital markets and strategy, I aim to pursue a career in investment banking and later transition into private equity.

ssalvail23@ubishops.ca

Simon Salvail, a finance student at Bishop’s University and Portfolio Manager in SEED, combines curiosity with strategy. After driving market expansion at LIGNA Systems, he now aims to build a career in strategy consulting, fueled by learning, collaboration, and innovation.

Vivienne Webster

vwebster21@ubishops.ca

A fourth-year Management student with minors in Finance and Marketing from North Hatley, Quebec. Vivienne is excited to be back again this year after receiving the divisional Best Presenter prize at FECC 2025. Highly involved in student life, she is President of the BU Consulting Group and an Academic Senator representing the Williams School of Business. After summer placements at BNP Paribas and Desjardins as a student consultant, she aims to work in strategy and management consulting.

Grand Valley State University

United States of America

Chandresh Baid baidc@gvsu.edu

I love working with students and helping them find themselves and grow in their lives.

Team Coach

Sophie Bulos

Buloss@mail.gvsu.edu

Student Competitors

I’m Sophie Bulos, a fourth-year at Grand Valley State University passionate about giving back and marketing. I help startups grow through Momentum by Seidman and CEI, and I plan to work at a marketing agency, to travel, and pursue my art hobbies.

Graham O’Neill

oneillgr@mail.gvsu.edu

Graham O’Neill is a Finance and Economics major at Grand Valley State University with an emphasis in Real Estate. He serves as an Associate Broker at Marcus & Millichap, specializing in single-tenant net-lease investment sales nationwide. Graham is focused on building a long-term career in commercial real estate advisory and ownership.

Brody Osborne bdosborne711@gmail.com

Ravi Patel

My name is Brody, I’m a student- athlete finance major here at GVSU. I also participate in entrepreneurship clubs and our Investment Portfolio Organization here. I hope to pursue being a well-educated wealth manager or consultant.

patelrav@mail.gvsu.edu

Ravi Patel is a student majoring in Finance & Accounting. While in college, he serves as the president of CEO club, an entrepreneurship-based club. He is currently interning at Mercantile Bank and plans to go into banking with a focus on entrepreneurship and small business ownership.

Loyola University Chicago

United States of America

Team Coach

Kathleen McCauley - Primary Coach

kmccauley3@luc.edu

As adjunct faculty for a less than two-year old undergraduate course in Family Business Management, I am very excited to be involved with Loyola University Chicago’s inaugural involvement.

Jill McCall

Jmccall1@luc.edu

Ms. Jill McCall is the Director of the Family Business Center at Loyola University Chicago. Her long term goal is to evolve the center from a “best kept secret” to something seen by every traditional student at Loyola. She is excited to experience this competition! Jill can be contacted at jmccall1@luc.edu.

Student Competitors

Katherine Craig Kcraig3@luc.edu

Hi! My name is Katherine Craig. I am a Senior majoring in International Business and minoring in Political Science. I hope to one day pursue a career in international law.

Noah Lepore leporeng@gmail.com

I am second-year student at Loyola University Chicago majoring in Finance, Economics, and Information Systems & Analytics. I am aspiring to become a tech or strategy consultant once I graduate. Something I am proud of is how my mindset is set on how to help other people through whatever I’m doing.

Keegan Meister kmeister1@luc.edu

I’m a sophomore studying Info Systems & Analytics with a minor in International Business. I have experience in family business, startups, and corporations. Currently a SOC 2 Compliance Intern, Business Honors Head of Alumni Relations, and Staff TA for AKPsi. with aspirations in strategy consulting.

Gretchen Nagel gretchen.m.nagel@gmail.com

As a second-year Information Systems and Economics major, I aspire to a career in business consulting where I can leverage technology and data to solve complex challenges. I am passionate about leadership, driving innovative solutions, and making a meaningful impact in the organizations and communities I serve.

Mississippi State University

United States of

America

Team Coach

Nathan Hammond nlh150@msstate.edu

I received the Best Doctoral Dissertation Award from the Family Firm Institute in 2021. I’d like to continue research on family businesses and coaching Mississippi State University’s SG-FECC team. This is my 2nd year coaching.

Student Competitors

Audrey Belue asb709@msstate.edu

I am a senior from Atlanta, GA studying Business Administration. My concentrations are marketing, management, and insurance. My career goals are to run my own company as a makeup artist.

Austin Hill arh847@msstate.edu

I am a senior studying business management and entrepreneurship and a Tuscaloosa, AL native planning to pursue an MBA post graduation. My goals include expanding my family’s electrical contracting company into a regional leader while also building my own entrepreneurial legacy.

Jonathan Taylor tjt277@msstate.edu

I’m a December graduate of Mississippi State University with a B.B.A. I’m a secondyear SG-FECC competitor and have experience in family business. I’ll begin my full-time role with Paul Davis Restoration in Starkville, Mississippi, this January and look forward to applying what I’ve learned in school and through experiences like SG-FECC to my career.

Claire Washburn

cew693@msstate.edu

Hi everyone! My name is Claire Washburn, I am a Business Administration major in my fourth and final year at Mississippi State. I look forward to gaining knowledge and better develop my real-life problem solving skills I can bring into my career in the future through this experience.

University of Alabama

United States of America

Team Coach

Quoc Hoang qhhoang@ua.edu

My goal is to help students understand their place and voice, based on who they are now and their aspirations. My work as an experiential educator focuses on designing unique learning experiences that develop students’ heads and hearts, helping them making a smooth transition from college to career.

Student Competitors

Jesse Park jrpark@crimson.ua.edu

I want to obtain a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering and run a lab within the field of materials science. I am most proud of being a 2025 Ernest F. Hollings Scholar and leading the University of Alabama to win international awards while serving the disabled community as a TOM Fellow.

Kelley Pham ktpham1@crimson.ua.edu

As a finance, marketing, and public policy studies major, I am interested in the intersection of business and policy. On campus, I am in the Blackburn Institute, Culverhouse Ambassadors, and support economic research on fiscal favoritism in Indonesia. This summer I am interning at Goldman Sachs.

Freya Seneski fkseneski@crimson.ua.edu

Motivated by a passion for business development and problem solving, I strive to build strong relationships that drive growth and innovation. Also being a founding member of Alabama Women’s Hockey, I’m proud to help expand opportunities for women in the sport nationwide.

Noah Taeckens njtaeckens@crimson.ua.edu

I’m a finance major interested in management consulting and financial advising. I’m most passionate about my role as Co-Founder of The Hands of McCollough Volunteering Program, which has grown to 100+ members in two years and completed projects building homes and reducing hunger in West Alabama.

University of Alberta

Canada

Team Coach

Matt Knight

mknight2@ualberta.ca

Executive Professor at the University of Alberta & Executive Director of the Alberta Business Family Institute. Matt guides students and business families through strategy, governance, and succession. He teaches undergrad, MBA, and executive programs, focusing on strategic decision-making, AI, and growth.

Student Competitors

Tyler Bichage tbichage@ualberta.ca

I’m building a career rooted in strategy and community impact. I’m most proud of the charity work I’ve led and the teams I’ve supported, as well as representing the Alberta School of Business on the international stage with heart and purpose.

Eshan Shivji eshivji@ualberta.ca

Eshan Shivji is a third-year finance student passionate about banking, investing, and case competitions. He’s proud of leading major student initiatives, excelling in national competitions, and building a strong foundation for a career in investment banking.

Ava Sutherland ajsuthe1@ualberta.ca

Hi everyone! I’m Ava, a Business Economics and Law major at the University of Alberta, where I explore how business, policy, and law shape economic and social outcomes. I’m passionate about using analytical thinking and collaboration to create meaningful impact and am excited to explore diverse career paths that reflect these values.

Eshaan Virani evirani@ualberta.ca

I’m a student-athlete in accounting & finance who’s always chasing growth! Whether it’s through hurdles, case comps, or the gym. I’m proud of making real impact in student leadership and building things from the ground up.

Universidad de Los Andes

Colombia

Team Coach

Luz Elena Orozco Collazos luorozco@uniandes.edu.co

Luz Elena Orozco-Collazos is a professor of strategy at the School of Management at the Universidad de los Andes. She is passionate about student learning and developing skills that will enable them to effectively lead organizations. Learning and entrepreneurship in family businesses are her main research topics.

Montserrat De la Ossa m.delao@uniandes.edu.co

Student Competitors

I’m a 23-year-old Business Administration student with a minor in Psychology. Having lived in five different countries, I’ve developed a broad international perspective that shapes how I approach creativity and teamwork. I’m driven by the desire to create a positive impact through what I love and grow both personally and professionally.

Nicolas Diaz Rodriguez nicolas.diazro21@gmail.com

Legal Director at 180 Degrees Consulting at Universidad de los Andes. Business Administration Faculty Student Committee Leader at Universidad de los Andes. National Case Competition (Consulting Club) Partnership and Case Director at Universidad de los Andes. Financial Club member at Universidad de los Andes.

Juanita López j.lopez28@uniandes.edu.co

I am pursuing a double degree in Business Management and Design. Growing up around my family business sparked my passion for strategy and value creation. I enjoy consulting, designing creative solutions, and aspire to work in brand strategy or marketing.

Universidad Internacional del Ecuador

Ecuador

Team Coach

Johannes Ritz jr@courage.sg

Johannes Ritz is Director Latin America at Courage and Director of the Courage Center for Family Entrepreneurship & Wealth at UIDE. He advises business families on governance and growth, teaches in Ecuador and Germany, and pursues a Ph.D. at the University of Antwerp. jr@courage.sg

Student Competitors

Johanna Carvache jocarvachero@uide.edu.ec

Marketing graduate currently pursuing a double degree in International Business. With 1.5 years of professional experience, including as a KIA marketing intern involved in national campaigns. Erasmus+ KA171 scholar at SRH Heidelberg. Passionate about sustainability and innovation.

Doménica Navas donavasla@uide.edu.ec

My goal is to graduate in International Business and pursue a master’s in China. I’m grateful for this opportunity, as it helps me grow personally and professionally, learn from others, and keep discovering what truly inspires me.

Andrea Proaño andreaproano08@gmail.com

I’m a Business Administration student and a contributor at Forbes Ecuador, deeply interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, and social change. As a former Student Council President and active FULLEF member, I focus on empowering young people and building projects that inspire purposeful growth.

Simón Sansur N simonsansurn@gmail.com

Finance student obsessed with leverage. Co-founder of Cafferina and currently driving efficiency at ExpoFlores. My experience in Germany shaped my disciplined approach to building scalable business systems and financial freedom.

Universidad Panamericana Guadalajara

Mexico

Team Coach

Deolinda Lara dlarar@up.edu.mx

Hello everyone! I am the Coordinator of Student Affairs at Universidad Panamericana. I have degrees in International Business and Business Management and as a former case competitor I aim to empower students to reach their full potential in every case they do.

Student Competitors

José Eduardo Aceves Valdez 0243909@up.edu.mx

As a student in a new field, I’ve always sought to learn broadly to become a well-rounded professional. My dedication has earned me academic recognition, leadership roles, and valuable experiences. I thank my family, especially my father and aunt, for inspiring my growth through their hard work and passion.

Cristina Celis 0243899@up.edu.mx

Student of Family Business Administration and Accounting at Universidad Panamericana. Recognized for academic excellence and leadership. Aspiring to pursue a master’s, grow my family business, and create meaningful experiences that inspire learning and growth.

Andrea Urbina Romero 0264320@up.edu.mx

I’m a Human Resources student passionate about dance and people development. I’m driven by empathy and creativity, proud of my dedication in case competitions and my role as a dance cultural scholar, where I’ve learned to lead with purpose and connection.

Maria Paula Veloquio 0243115@up.edu.mx

I am a senior majoring in Management and International Business. Through three years as a member in the Business Consulting Club, I found a passion for consulting by applying my analytical and problem-solving skills. My goal is to seek challenging and exciting work that keeps me learning.

University of Prince Edward Island Canada

Team Coach

Lena Liang ljliang@upei.ca

As a professor and coach, my work focuses on advancing research while creating meaningful learning experiences for students. Coaching case competition teams has been especially rewarding as I watch students emerging as confident leaders who can make a difference.

Student Competitors

Rio Crystal recrystal@upei.ca

My goal is to become a social entrepreneur and philanthropist, creating sustainable solutions for communities. As Co-President of Enactus, I lead impact-driven projects and earned 3rd place in the Sustainability Competition at Enactus Nationals, advancing my mission for positive change.

Seth Dockendorff spdockendorff@upei.ca

I am a fourth-year student in Business Administration at UPEI, with a minor in History. I always seek out career opportunities that allow me to combine those two interests. I have work experience in research and event management, including recent work I am proud of for a local non-profit.

Luciana Quiroa Paredes lrquiroaparedes@upei.ca

Related to my major in international business: I have experience in Communication and Client relations, Event planning and project implementation, and CRM database management. I have work experience on the UPEI campus and the Chief Public Health Office in project management and social media content management.

Trisha Yu tryu@upei.ca

I’m a 4th-year International Business student at UPEI. I aspire to build a real estate business I’ve already begun investing in, along with a food industry venture. I’m proudest of myself for seeking opportunities even when they push me out of my comfort zone, such as participating in case competitions and teaching English abroad.

David Mount

davidmount325@gmail.com

University of Vermont

United States of America

Team Coach

I started a family business in 1982 along with my wife. We grew it to over $24 million in sales and passed it to the next generation. I now travel, consult and coach.

Rocki-Lee DeWitt

rocki.dewitt@uvm.edu

FFI Fellow; Member Editorial Board of FBR, co-author of family business cases, chapters on innovation and sustainability in family business; numerous publications on downsizing and corporate restructuring including a recently published book on corporate downsizing

Student Competitors

Myra Shalaty mshalaty@uvm.edu

Myra is a third-year undergraduate studying Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting with a Global Business theme, and minors in Sports Management and Economics. After graduation she plans to attend graduate school to earn a masters in accounting and sit for her CPA.

Cole Snyder ccsnyder@uvm.edu

I am a senior studying at the Grossman School of Business. With my finance and business analytics major, I am hoping to make a meaningful impact by helping organizations make smarter, data-driven financial decisions. Looking forward to the competition!

Leo Zematis lzematis@uvm.edu

I am a junior accounting and mathematics student at Grossman, with a passion for creating sustainability focused quantitative solutions. I serve as the treasurer of multiple clubs and work with a literary non-profit outside of school, and I am looking to pursue public auditing and CPA licensure.

Griffin Zimmer gzimmer@uvm.edu

I am thrilled to get to apply my undergrad studies this January at FECC. I am a third year senior here at GSB and sustainable business has slowly become my passion. My dream is to one day make a real difference in society through a variety of business practices. This is my first big competition as a competitor and I’m so excited to get started

GRADUATE TEAMS

Auburn University

United States of America

Team Coach

Kathryn Burroughs krb0116@auburn.edu

I’m a believer in bold career moves and genuine connections. As Assistant Director of Graduate Career Services at Auburn, I help MBA and MS students discover paths that inspire them and design experiences that help them thrive. Connect with me at krb0116@auburn.edu.

Student Competitors

Riley Ferguson rgf0007@auburn.edu

A current 2nd-year MBA/MSCM candidate, aims to drive efficiency and costeffectiveness in retail operations. She hopes to apply her hands-on case experience to create real-world impact and innovation within the supply chain industry.

Christiana Okonko okonko.christiana@gmail.com

A certified Project Manager with over 5 years leading initiatives in nonprofit and renewable energy. She has managed malaria prevention across over 300 communities and solar projects in Africa, Her experiences inspired her pursuit of an MBA/Industrial and Systems Engineering to lead impactful global projects.

Luis Perez lcp0032@auburn.edu

After completing my Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering I spent some years working in the industry. During that time I realized that I wanted to pivot, which led me to pursue my MBA and MSF at Auburn. After graduation, I plan to return to Colombia, where I was born and raised, to continue contributing to and expanding my family’s engineering firm.

Cole Shankles cts0063@auburn.edu

I am a second-year dual MBA and Master of Industrial and Systems Engineering student focused on driving efficiency and innovation in healthcare. After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in healthcare operations, applying data-driven strategies to improve performance and patient outcomes.

Babes-Bolyai University

Romania

Team Coach

Réka Izsák reka.izsak@econ.ubbcluj.ro

I’m Réka Izsák, a PhD candidate in Management at Babes-Bolyai University. My research explores how digital tools support knowledge transfer in family businesses. I’m passionate about learning, teaching and helping organizations blend tradition with innovation.

Gergo Kolozsi kolozsi.gergo@stud.ubbcluj.ro

Student Competitors

I believe that my education, experiences, and practical knowledge, combined with the national and international relationships I build, will contribute to a more sustainable future and lead to both professional and personal growth.

Krisztián Tófalvi tofalvikrisztian21@gmail.com

I am an enthusiast for the Business Development sector, which is where I imagine my future career. Currently, I am a Consultant in a regional consulting firm, managing funds and projects.

Ábel Dimény-Varga dimenvargaabel@gmail.com

With a background in Business Information Systems and Data-driven Management, my academic interests lie at the intersection of economics and IT, with a particular focus on data science. I can proudly say that I got the opportunity to represent BBU on multiple case comps, therefore strengthening academic and practical knowledge.

Chulalongkorn University

Thailand

Team Coach

Tanachote Vongsurbchart tanachote.vongsurbchart@sasin.edu

Tanachote Vongsurbchart is the primary coach for Sasin School of Management at the 13th annual SG-FECC.

Student Competitors

Ornrumpa Amornkasemwong ornrumpa.amornkasemwong@sasin.edu

I graduated with a BSc in Biomedical Sciences from University College London and am currently pursuing an MBA at Sasin School of Management. Now in my third year in the family’s food packaging business, I lead R&D, sustainability, and transformation initiatives.

Pascal Gallina pascal.gallina@sasin.edu

Sasin MBA. I translate high-level strategy into technical execution. I’ve led key strategic initiatives, from optimizing supply chains by relocating a factory to Spain to automating a client’s global export line. My goal is to lead complex operational transformations.

Patriya Piyawiroj patriya.pearl@gmail.com

My background is in software development, which has shown me how technology can help create meaningful change in the world - something I continue to aspire towards.

Palin Sunthonchai palin.sunthonchai@sasin.edu

Economics graduate with 4 years of experience in investment and private banking, specializing in private markets. Strong interest in family enterprise dynamics and strategic investments that drive sustainable long-term growth.

ESADE University

Spain

Team Coach

Maria Jose Parada Balderrama mariajose.parada@esade.edu

Associate Professor of Family Business & Strategy at ESADE Business School. She holds the Andbank Chair of Family-Owned Enterprises and is CeFEO Affiliated Researcher at JIBS. Her research focuses on governance, next-gen development, and family business groups. She worked in several industries for a corporation and her family business.

Ignacio Carnevale

ignacio.carnevale@alumni.esade.edu

Julian Toro

Student Competitors

Executive at Grupo Pampa, a leading Costa Rican beverage company. Experienced in corporate strategy and transformation. Founder of D Bar, Costa Rica’s first high-end speakeasy. ESADE MBA candidate and Family Business Club President, passionate about strategy and advancing family enterprises.

julian.tororamirez@alumni.esade.edu

Managed assets under administration exceeding USD 700 million, closed transactions totaling over USD 190 million, and actively contributed as a board member to more than three family businesses, supporting their strategic and financial growth.

Adrian Treiber

Adrian.treiber@alumni.esade.edu

Former Assistant of the Board at CGF-AG, a family-owned German IT outsourcing and IT consultancy enterprise. Five years’ experience with hands-on responsibilities as key-account manager, department lead, and legal representative during the restructuring of Romanian subsidiaries. ESADE MBA candidate and Vice President of the Family Business Club, passionate about strategy and advancing family enterprises.

Heilbronn University

Germany

Team Coach

Joachim Link

joachim.link@hs-heilbronn.de

I look forward to the competition and I wish all competing teams the best of luck.

Simon Scheiner simonscheiner@web.de

Student Competitors

I completed my Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a focus on Sports Management in 2023. Currently in my third semester of the Master’s in International Marketing & Communication, I work for a large German family-owned company in sports sponsorship, combining my passion for sports and marketing.

Hanna Scheyerle hanna.scheyerle@gmail.com

I am studying International Marketing and Communication while working as a working student in the marketing department at Porsche Deutschland GmbH. I am excited to be part in this competition, as I see it as a great opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. It will support me in pursuing a future leadership position in marketing.

Charlotte Schüle lotti.schuele@outlook.de

I am in the final semester of my master’s degree in International Marketing and Communication and I am writing my thesis in collaboration with my family business. My goal is to foster growth for both the company and myself, continuously striving for improvement and creating a lasting impact in our field.

Anouk Schurmann aschurmann@stud.hs-heilbronn.de

Master student in Marketing & Communication with almost three years at SAP in recruiting and communications, specializing in content creation, multimedia design, and events. My bachelor focused on East Asia, so I spent an exchange year in Korea. Career goal: global marketing where creativity knows no borders and neither do I.

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Hong Kong, China

Team Coach

Winnie Qian Peng pengq@ust.hk

As a dedicated scholar with over two decades of research and teaching focused on Asian family businesses and family offices, my life’s mission is to empower the rising generation and to influence the influential families, ultimately advancing intergenerational prosperity and long-term sustainability for the world.

Yiyang Liu

yliuso@conncet.ust.hk

Ziyi Qian

Student Competitors

I have deep experience across leading financial institutions, covering wealth management, industry research, and project consulting. Currently, I focus on the search fund, dedicated to developing tailored intergenerational succession solutions for small and medium-sized family enterprises and empowering them to achieve sustainable value continuity.

zqianak@connect.ust.hk

Jiejing Wang

I’m Ziyi QIAN. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Europe and worked as a young consultant for Michael Reybier Group. Selected for the Harvard AUSCR Young Leaders Summit, I exchanged ideas at Harvard, Yale, and MIT. Drawing on my academic and professional experience across Europe, the US and Asia, I aim to drive growth in my family business.

jwangmw@connect.ust.hk

Wilfred Wong

I aim to advise global family enterprises on sustainable growth & governance. As an educational entrepreneur & 2nd-gen family business owner, proud of scaling my English studio and steering our family business to 15-plant partnerships with zero core-staff turnover.

wongwilfred35@gmail.com

I am focused on building a career that connects finance, strategy, and family enterprises. I have experience across leading financial institutions and have worked on projects that strengthen operational efficiency and drive digital innovation.

National Sun Yat-Sen University

Taiwan

Team Coach

Chiung-Wen Tsao cwtsao@gm2.nutn.edu.tw

Professor of HR Studies, National University of Tainan. Her research interests include the people management issues in the family enterprise. She has published previously in Family Business Review and Journal of Family Business Strategy. She is also an affiliated researcher in the Center for Strategy and Human Capital Research at NSYSU, Taiwan.

Yanek Filipp filippjan@gmail.com

Shin-Dih Lin

Student Competitors

Pursuing an IBMBA to advance in Project Management, and subsequently, Business Development for sustainable tech firms in East Asia. Fluent in Mandarin (TOCFL 4), 2nd Prize winner at 2025 ESSC with Special Prize for Environment Sustainability Proposals, and top-ranked Wenzao Business graduate with eCommerce PM experience.

lincindy2001901@gmail.com

Hi, I’m Cindy, currently in my first year of an HRM master’s program. I am passionate about fostering connections within the communities I engage with, and enjoy working with people who value effective communication and cultural development. I am now interested in talent management, and cultivating a healthy and inclusive workplace culture.

Min-Chun Tsai you.y.si13@gmail.com

I am currently pursuing an MBA in Global Human Resource Management. Leveraging my interdisciplinary background in social resources, environmental science, and management, I am focusing on Global HR and ESG Strategy to help achieve organizational sustainability, innovation, and impact.

Ling-Yu Yen

linyoyan@gmail.com

Passionate about business leadership and strategy, I aim to pursue a career in management consulting. I’ve led academic case projects, competed in national business competitions, and enjoy bridging analytical thinking with creative problem-solving as I strive to become a transformational leader who inspires growth and innovation.

University of Manitoba Canada

Team Coach

Daniel Kokan - Primary Coach dimkokan@gmail.com

I’m a former SG-FECC competitor, and have returned to coach Asper’s graduate team. I’m a technology leader that focuses on people development, culture, and strategy. I’m in the final term of my MBA at the Asper School of Business.

Eli Koulack

eli.koulack@bird.ca

I have a bachelor of civil engineering and am a registered Professional Engineer in the province of Manitoba and graduated from the Asper School of Business Masters program in June 2024. I currently work as a Project Manager for Bird Construction, a Canada-wide full-service construction firm.

Loni Andres

Loniandres@hotmail.com

Student Competitors

I am in my final year of the Asper MBA degree, where I have focused on leadership. I am passionate about advancing reconciliation and creating meaningful partnerships. My goal is to become a recognized leader in Indigenous engagement, driving innovation, and impact through strong project management, people skills, and strategic leadership.

Daniel Gagnon

dropajam1@gmail.com

Founder of CPPA Binder, an MBA candidate focused on scaling PFAS-free battery materials. Career goal: lead a global cleantech venture that cuts manufacturing impact. Proud of: licensing strategy wins, case-competition track, and 2nd at MEIA Green Dragon.

Jordan Mackinnon

mackinn5@myumanitoba.ca

Mario Petit

A professional engineer with experience leading capital projects in sustainable development and energy utility infrastructure. My career goal is to become an organizational leader who can reconcile social, economic, and environmental priorities through thoughtful strategy and inclusive leadership.

petitm@myumanitoba.ca

Mario Petit – Métis leader and MBA candidate at the Asper School of Business. From small-town Manitoba to managing national talent at KPMG, Mario is driven to create opportunities for Indigenous youth and inspire change through business leadership.

John Wilking Jnwilking@gmail.com

University of Vermont

United States of America

Team Coach

My real estate career is wrapping up as I build one last building and slowly sell off a portfolio of commercial investments. This leaves me with time to spend on the UVM Grads and Undergrads, which I truly enjoy. My goal? Win FECC.

Rocki-Lee DeWitt

rocki.dewitt@uvm.edu

FFI Fellow; Member Editorial Board of FBR, co-author of family business cases, chapters on innovation and sustainability in family business; numerous publications on downsizing and corporate restructuring including a recently published book on corporate downsizing

Student Competitors

Cole Drozdek

cole.drozdek@uvm.edu

I am currently pursuing my MBA after receiving a degree in Biomedical Engineering, where I aim to bring my analytical and problem-solving skills into the business world. My previous work experiences span from labs to non-profit organizations, where I focused on increasing access to medical technology and the outdoors.

Maggie Dockray mdockray@uvm.edu

Maggie is currenlty a student in the SI-MBA program at the UVM Grossman School of Business. Her Environmental Studies work in oyster remediation practices and coastal water management practices allowed her to find a passion for sustainability work. In the SIMBA program she hopes to help create change in world today for future generations.

Caroline Rooney crooney3@uvm.edu

Following graduation in 2024, Caroline worked for Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County. While there, Caroline educated professionals in trade industries about the dangers of lead paint. With an interest in sustainable fashion, Caroline hopes to fix the lack of protective clothing for women.

William Wright william.a.wright@uvm.edu

Hi, I’m Will! Before enrolling in UVM’s Sustainable Innovation MBA program, I worked for a bioscience company as a manufacturing science and technology associate. I am now looking to bridge engineering, science, and business to design and implement regenerative business ecosystems.

Competition Judges

Judge Orientation Leaders

Mira Bloemen-Bekx

w.m.j.m.bloemen-bekx@pl.hanze.nl

Hanze UAS

Netherlands

Dr. Mira Bloemen-Bekx is Professor of Regional Innovative Capacity at the Hanze UAS, Groningen, Netherlands. Mira’s dissertation on next generations’ engagement and commitment from Hasselt University, Belgium, received the prestigious ‘Best Doctoral Dissertation Award’ of the Family Firm Institute, USA, in 2020. Mira has enjoyed a distinguished career as an entrepreneur and strategic marketing consultant for SMEs and family businesses and as a lecturer, head of department and dean in higher education. Her academic interests focus on value-driven approach to leading family enterprises, and she focuses on developing ownership competences, impact-driven innovation and ecosystems. Mira serves as the chair of Case Selection Committee and the Judge Orientation Leader of the SG-FECC.

Jim Davis

j.davis@usu.edu

Utah State University

United States

James H. Davis is an emeritus Professor in the Marketing, Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership Department in the Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University. Prior to that he was the John F. O’Shaughnessy Professor of Family Enterprises and Professor of Strategic Management in the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. His is an affiliate professor at the University of Vermont, Dublin City University (Ireland), and Grand Valley State University (Michigan, USA). Professor Davis has worked with many major national and multinational corporations and trade associations throughout the world on strategic planning, innovation, legacy and change leadership, trust, and market positioning. His research focuses upon trust, stewardship, legacy, strategy, corporate governance, and family business. Professor Davis has received numerous awards for his research and teaching.

Afi Ahmadi

Steve Beauchesne

Alex Bergfeld

Douglas Box

Donna Carpenter

Rino Caruccio

John Casella

Michael Casella

Ted Castle

Ali Chipouras

Matt Cropp

Jay Daniel

Josh Daspit

Alexandra Dawson

Don Droppo

Pierre DuPont

Davis Farmer

Competition Judges

Robert Finn

Marian Fritz

Caitlin Goss

Danna Greenberg

Julia Grismore

Adam Ifshin

Luis Jimenez-Castillo

Arran Joyce

Jim Keller

JD Kelly

Linda Kidwell

Roland Kidwell

John Kim

Karen Lawson

Bruce Leech

Steve Legler

Peyton Leveillee

Suzanne Lowensohn

Natalie McVeigh

Olivia Mekkelsen

Stephanie Meunier

Will Nedds

Jen O’Neill

Lauck Parke

Travis Perry

Rajeev Peshawaria

Steven Schlesinger

Eric Silverman

William Stevenson

Sharon Tatro

Chuck Tauck

Jim Tessmer

Beatrice Waesche

Robyn Worrall

Afi Ahmadi

aahmadi@dinse.com

Grossman School of Business

United States

Afi Ahmadi is a partner at the law firm Dinse P.C., in Burlington, Vermont. With expertise in lending regulation and commercial transactions, he represents banks, secured lenders and borrowers in sophisticated financing transactions, and advises national lenders. He also represents businesses on leasing, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, and securities laws. Afi received a B.A in Economics from the University of Vermont, where he served as a member of the Board of Trustees, and later received J.D. and M.B.A. degrees from Boston University. A past President of UVM Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, he serves on the boards of the UVM Foundation and the Burlington Business Association. Mr. Ahmadi is a Business Law Lecturer at the UVMs Grossman School of Business.

Steve Beauchesne

sbeauchesne@familyenterprise.ca

Family Enterprise Canada Canada

Steve Beauchesne joined Family Enterprise Canada and Family Enterprise Foundation as its CEO in 2024. He was the cofounder and CEO of Beau’s Brewery, from 2006 to 2022. As CEO, Steve raised more than $2 million for charity, community, and the independent arts, certified Beau’s as Canada’s first-ever B-Corp brewery, helped found the first craft brewery in Rwanda, and was a founding member of the Canadian Craft Brewers Association. Steve has been awarded the social entrepreneurship award by the Best of Ottawa Awards, named Design Thinker of the year by the Association of Registered Designers and Community Builder of the year by the United Way. In addition to his full-time gig, Steve sits on the board of directors for the Centre for Social Enterprise Development, plays in a punk rock band and has three daughters.

Alex Bergfeld

alexander.bergfeld@googlemail.com

Universidad Internacional del Ecuador Germany

Alexander is Director Asia at Courage Partners Group in Singapore, a consultancy advising top business families across Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Americas. He’s also Professor for Global Next Generation Development at the Universidad Internacional del Ecuador. Previously, he led corporate acceleration programs in Europe and clean-tech projects in Arabia. Alexander is a European Commission Expert Evaluator and academic reviewer. He was Best Coach at the 2017 Family Enterprise Case Competition and has judged major family business competitions. He holds a PhD from the University of Antwerp, an MBA from Munich Business School, and a BSc from the University of Manchester. Outside work, he’s an avid martial artist with a black belt in Kali Eskrima/CQC and a three-stripe blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Douglas Box

dbox@mail.smu.edu

Family Business Consultant

United States

Douglas D. Box is a family business consultant based in Dallas, Texas, since 2005. His experience includes family business consulting with Wells Fargo Private Bank. He holds bachelor’s degrees in arts and business administration from the University of Texas at Austin, an MBA from Baylor University, and a Master’s in Dispute Resolution from Southern Methodist University (SMU). Certified in Family Business Advising by the Family Firm Institute and in Executive Coaching from SMU, he is an adjunct professor at SMU where he teaches two family business courses. Doug is the author of two memoirs about his experiences growing up in a family oil and gas enterprise — Texas Patriarch: A Legacy Lost and Cutter Frisco: Growing Up on the Original Southfork Ranch.

Donna Carpenter

donnac@burton.com

Burton Snowboards

United States

Donna met Burton’s founder, Jake Burton Carpenter, on New Year’s Eve 1981 and has been shaping the company ever since. From dipping boards in polyurethane to leading global expansion, Donna has played a pivotal role in making Burton a world leader in snowboarding. She championed women’s advancement, sustainability, and inclusivity, becoming Burton’s first female CEO in 2016 and now serving as Chair of the Board. Through her work with the Chill Foundation and her family’s continued ownership, Donna carries forward Jake’s legacy of purpose, fun, and community.

Rino Caruccio

emcaruccio@gmail.com

Retired Finance Vice President at Amazon

United States

Enerino “Rino” Caruccio is a retired Finance Vice President at Amazon, most recently in Amazon Devices & Services, responsible for developing, implementing and delivering insightful analysis that scales with the growth of Device & Services portfolio. Rino joined Amazon in March 2006 as Vice President Corporate FP&A and in 2009 became Vice President Worldwide Seller Services Finance. In 2013 he became Vice President Worldwide Consumer Analytics before moving to his current Amazon role in 2017. Prior to joining Amazon, Rino worked 22 years for General Electric in various finance leadership roles. Rino holds an MBA from Stanford University and a Bachelor of Science from UVM School of Business.

John Casella

John.casella@casella.com

Casella Waste

United States

John W. Casella is the Executive Chairman of Casella Waste Systems, Inc., a company he helped build from a single-truck operation in 1975 into a leader in resource management and sustainability. Guided by his vision, Casella operates across 13 states, driving economic and environmental sustainability through innovative solutions. John has advised governors in Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire on solid waste issues, contributing to policy development and environmental progress. His board experiences include Vermont State Chamber of Commerce, National Recycling Coalition, and Environmental Research & Education Foundation. John holds an Associate of Science degree from Bryant & Stratton College and a Bachelor of Science degree from Castleton University.

Michael Casella

Michael.Casella@CASELLA.COM

Casella Waste

United States

Mr. Casella brings broad experience in both the private and public sectors, particularly in the field of Waste and Recycling. Mr. Casella has been a member of numerous industry-related and community service-related state and local boards and commissions, including the Green Up Vermont, Vermont Chamber of Commerce, National Waste & Recycling Association’s Future Industry leader association, Wheels for Warmth. Mr. Casella is also a recipient of the waste 360 – 40 under 40 award for is work in the industry. The waste360 “40 under 40” awards program recognizes inspiring and innovative professionals under the age of 40 whose work in waste, recycling and organics has made a significant contribution to the industry. Mr. Casella holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from West Virgina University.

Ted Castle

tcastle@rhinofoods.com

Rhino Foods

United States

Ted Castle is the owner and President of Rhino Foods, a certified B Corporation located in Burlington, VT. Rhino employs 250+ people and manufactures bakery-style inclusions for ice cream manufacturers and a variety of frozen desserts and snacks. Rhino Food’s Purpose is to “Impact the Manner in Which Business is Done”. Rhino Foods and Ted have been recognized with the Hal Taussig B the Change Award, Beta Gamma Sigma Entrepreneurial Award, Vermont Small Businessperson of the Year, the Terry Ahrich Award for Socially Responsible Business, Forbes Magazine’s List of Small Giants, Optimas Award for vision in the workplace, Inc Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and Special Recognition Award from the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program.

Ali Chipouras

alichipouras@gmail.com

Sustainability, Communications, and Engagement Consultant

United States

Ali Chipouras is a sustainability and strategic communications consultant based in Bozeman, Montana. She has worked across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors on climate, conservation, and community resilience initiatives. Ali began her career in the hospitality industry with Delaware North, where she led sustainability initiatives in Yellowstone National Park. She later transitioned to local government, supporting implementation of the City of Bozeman’s Climate Action Plan with a focus on building energy efficiency.

In 2025, Ali launched Aspen Leaf Consulting, where she now partners with organizations on mission-aligned sustainability programs, communications, and stakeholder engagement. As a UVM student, Ali served as a FECC student ambassador and Lead Student Coordinator.

Matt Cropp

matt@veoc.org

Vermont Employee Ownership Center

United States

Matthew Cropp is Executive Director of the Vermont Employee Ownership Center, an organization he has worked for since 2014. He has advised hundreds of business owners on succession planning, and worked with numerous employees seeking to purchase their workplaces. He received his MA in History from UVM in 2011, and lives in the New North End of Burlington with his wife Allison and their young son.

Jay Daniel

jdaniel@intechgratesystems.com

Lodge Cast Iron

United States

Jay Daniel is a 5th generation family member and Board Chair at Lodge Cast Iron - selected by the Directors & Boards Magazine as a Private Company Board of the Year in 2023. He is committed to cultivating a deeper understanding of family business governance and best practices. Jay previously served as a judge for the annual Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition (SG-FECC) in January of 2024. Since then, Jay has spoken on topics including succession planning and next generation engagement at conferences hosted by Family Business Magazine, Delaware Family Business Center, UNI Family Business Center, and Campden Wealth.

Josh Daspit

josh.daspit@txstate.edu

Texas State University

United States

Joshua J. Daspit, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Management and the Sam Barshop Excellence Professor in Entrepreneurship at Texas State University’s McCoy College of Business. He has authored over 50 publications in outlets including Family Business Review, Entrepreneurship Theory & Practice, Journal of Business Research, and Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal. Dr. Daspit is Associate Editor for Family Business Review and serves on editorial boards of leading journals in entrepreneurship and family business. Additionally, he has served as the leader of a startup, a consultant for an international firm, and a director for a member of the U.S. Congress.

Alexandra Dawson

alexandra.dawson@concordia.ca

Concordia University Canada

Dr. Alexandra Dawson is a Professor of Management and holds the CIBC Distinguished Professorship in Entrepreneurship and Family Business. She has a PhD in Management and Business Administration from Bocconi University, where she was also a post-doctoral fellow, and an MSc Econ from the London School of Economics. Alexandra’s research is in entrepreneurship (e.g., women entrepreneurs, founder teams, founder ownership) and family business (e.g., successor commitment, private equity investment, family involvement in governance). She has published in several journals, including Journal of Business Venturing, Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, Family Business Review and Journal of Family Business Strategy. Prior to academia, Alexandra worked as a strategy consultant in London and Milan for several years, advising businesses and private equity investors.

Don Droppo

dondroppo@curtispackaging.com

Curtis Packaging United States

Droppo is the President and CEO of Curtis Packaging – packaging manufacturer for brands like Titleist, Estee Lauder, Lindt, and Johnnie Walker. Curtis is America’s first Forest Stewardship Council certified printing and packaging company. A carbon neutral and zero waste to landfill manufacturing facility, it uses 100% clean renewable energy. The company won the University of Vermont (UVM) Family Business Award in 2018. Before joining Curtis, Droppo worked at General Reinsurance, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway. He holds a B.S. in Marketing and Finance from the UVM (96’). Don is an active member of YPO, an avid skier / golfer and lives in Avon, CT with his wife (Amy) and their three children. Droppo’s oldest son is a senior at The Grossman School of Business.

Pierre DuPont

pdupont@ceritypartners.com

Cerity Partners, LLC

United States

Pierre has been a Partner and an owner at Cerity Partners since 2014. He guides clients regarding their wealth, family dynamics, personal accounting, tax strategy, Trusts and estate plans, investment portfolios and private business operations. In the 1990s and the 2000s, Pierre was a business executive and an entrepreneur, co-founding five software companies resulting in 1.5 IPOs, an acquisition and some failures. He has an electrical engineering degree from Princeton and started his career as a software engineer in computational linguistics, parallel processing, AI, and statistical data analysis. Pierre was born into the families that started DuPont (a private partnership formed in 1802 and public since 1922; he is G8) and Wawa (a closely held family business since 1902; he is G5).”

Davis Farmer

cdfjr1952@gmail.com

Ulysses Advisory Group

United States

Davis Farmer is an entrepreneur in the life sciences. He has formed companies in the US, UK, New Zealand and Russia as well as completing numerous transactions in all the major healthcare markets including China, Turkey and Argentina. His current focus is on a New Zealand company that is developing a non-invasive technology for treating brain disorders using ultrasound and writing a book on starting companies based upon academic science. He serves on multiple boards of notfor-profits.

Robert Finn

rmfinn2@icloud.com

Central National Gottesman Retired

United States

Recently retired from a fifty year career in the paper and printing industries., Bob spent the last 24 with the Lindenmeyr Central division of CNG, a privately held paper merchant. Representing paper manufacturers, he supplied catalog marketers, publishers and retailers with paper and paperboard. Wherever possible, the paper was made using environmentally responsible processes, recycled fiber, and FSC or SFI certification. As a middleman he built new account relationships, drove sales revenues for producers, and created technical and financial solutions that optimized costs and enhanced profits for buyers. When demand for print advertising started to decline he added paper sales to food packagers, and in consumer product applications including gift wrap and greeting cards. Bob earned an MBA from NYU ‘80 and a BA from St Lawrence ‘74. He served as a Director for 7 years on the Shelburne, VT and CSSU School Boards, and 6 years on the Lake Champlain YC Board of Governors. Married for 41 years, Bob and Kathleen have three adult children and one granddaughter.

Marian Fritz

mfritz@uvm.edu

University of Vermont

United States

Marian Fritz is a consultant to small businesses and nonprofits, with an emphasis on teaching organizations how to manage, budget, and plan. She is also a lecturer at the University of Vermont, teaching organizational behavior, personal finance, financial management for community entrepreneurs, and social enterprise. She has produced classes on the basics of business for groups such as the Franklin County Industrial Development Center, Mercy Connections’ Women’s Small Business Program, and the Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation. Marian earned a master’s in business administration with a concentration in finance from the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked for IBM, Chittenden Bank, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, and was president and CEO of a real estate investment company in Burlington, Vermont. She has served on the boards of the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, the UVM Lane Series, The Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, the Humane Society of Chittenden County, among others.

Caitlin Goss

cgoss@middlebury.edu

Middlebury College

United States

Caitlin Goss is Vice President for Human Resources & Chief People Officer at Middlebury College, where she leads people strategy to foster a skilled, engaged, and diverse workforce. She previously directed People & Culture at B Corp Rhino Foods and worked in global human capital at Bain & Company in Boston and Shanghai. Goss holds an MBA in Sustainable Innovation from UVM and a BA in Political Science and East Asian Studies from Dickinson, and studied at Beijing University, becoming fluent in Mandarin. Earlier in her career, she worked at the Harvard Kennedy School supporting research on leadership and systems change. Active in her community, she serves on the boards of Vermont Works for Women and the Green Mountain Higher Education Consortium. She lives in Charlotte, Vermont with her family.

Danna Greenberg

dgreenberg@babson.edu

Babson College

United States

Danna Greenberg is the Walter H. Carpenter Professor of Organizational Behavior at Babson College. Her research focuses on how individuals integrate work, family, and community as they move through their careers and how organizations can support individuals to have meaningful, impactful lives in and outside of work. She teaches organizational behavior at the undergraduate, graduate, and execute level often in association with entrepreneurship and design thinking.

Julia Grismore

juliagrismore@gmail.com

DLC

United States

Julia Grismore is a 2022 graduate of the Grossman School of Business at the University of Vermont, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in Accounting and Finance, along with a theme in Entrepreneurship. She began her career at DLC Management Corporation, a leading owner/operator of open-air retail properties, as a Legal Assistant and soon thereafter was promoted to Paralegal, expanding her role within the department and taking on more complex lease negotiations and legal documentation. In 2024, Julia transitioned to her current role as a Business Intelligence Project Manager, where she focuses on optimizing DLC’s systems and processes to improve operational efficiency and enhance data utilization.

Adam Ifshin

aifshin@dlcmgmt.com

DLC

United States

Adam Ifshin is Founder and CEO of DLC Management Corp., which he founded in 1991. Since then, he has grown DLC into one of the nation’s premier owners and operators of retail real estate, and one of the most active acquirers of assets with value added potential. Mr. Ifshin oversees DLC’s acquisitions and dispositions, capital markets activities, redevelopments, joint ventures, and corporate strategy. As a principal, he has been involved in over $4.5 billion of real estate transactions. Mr. Ifshin received a BA, cum laude, from Williams College, with honors degrees in economics and history, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Mr. Ifshin is a member of the Board of Trustees of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), a member of the Executive Board of the Board of Trustees of ICSC, and a full member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI).

Luis Jimenez-Castillo

lkleinkn@depaul.edu

DePaul University

United States

Luis Jimenez-Castillo is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Management & Entrepreneurship at the Driehaus College of Business, where he teaches management, strategy, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He earned his Ph.D. from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. His academic interests include internationalization, corporate strategy, entrepreneurship, family firms, and sustainability. A frequent speaker and researcher, he has presented at international conferences and published work in English and Spanish, contributing to global conversations on business and innovation. Beyond academia, he serves on the board of his family’s business in Mexico and acts as an FDA U.S. Agent for Mexican food exporters, helping them navigate regulations and enter the U.S. market.

Arran Joyce

cjoyce151@gmail.com

Alvarez & Marsal

United States

While a student at the University of Vermont, Arran was a Lead Student Coordinator during the 2014 and 2015 Family Enterprise Case Competitions. After graduating in 2015, Arran spent 4 years at General Electric in their Power and Oil & Gas businesses, holding a variety of positions in the Finance and M&A departments. Arran is currently a Director in the Private Equity Services practice at Alvarez & Marsal, specializing in operational due diligence and performance improvement for private equity clients.

Jim Keller

Jim keller@mac.com

Green Mountain Business Consultants

United States

Jim Keller is the President of Green Mountain Business Consultants, a consulting business solving a diversity of issues for international enterprises. He is also the retired President of Rengo Packaging Inc., a packaging manufacturer located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Mr. Keller received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Vermont and was previously the Interim President of the UVM Foundation. He received his Master of Business Administration from Dartmouth College. Mr. Keller was a past Chairperson of the University of Vermont Foundation and the Chair of the Indigenous Education Foundation of Tanzania, which provides for co-education opportunities in rural Tanzania Communities.

JD Kelly

jdkelly.kelly@gmail.com

Greystone & Co.

United States

JD Kelly is a Director at Greystone, a private real estate finance and investment company in New York City. He focuses on large loan originations across product offerings—Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, CMBS, and balance sheet bridge—totaling over $3.5 billion in funded volume. JD graduated in 2018 from University of Vermont with degrees in Business Administration from the Grossman School of Business and Economics from the College of Arts and Sciences. He is a member of the Grossman School of Business Board of Advisors. Originally from New Jersey, JD resides in New York City. In his free time, he enjoys getting back up to Vermont to hike and ski.

Linda Kidwell

lkidwell@nova.edu

Nova Southeastern University

United States

Dr. Linda Kidwell is a Chair/ Professor of Accounting, teacher and researcher, who aims to prepare students to be ethical professional accountants and to better understand ethical business behavior and its correlates. Much of her research is directed at accounting ethics and accounting ethics education, as well as governmental accounting. Her research has been published in The Journal of Business Ethics, The Journal of Accounting Literature, The Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, Journal of Public Budgeting Accounting and Financial Policy, Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, Journal of Markets and Morality and others. Her 30+ year career has spanned 4 countries and 8 universities.

Roland Kidwell

kidwellr@fau.edu

Florida Atlantic University

United States

Roland E. Kidwell, PhD Louisiana State University, is Carl DeSantis Distinguished Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. His research focuses on dysfunctional behavior, executive compensation, and human resource management in family businesses. He has published extensively in academic journals and authored cases focusing on family firms. He is a Fellow of the Family Firm Institute and the U.S. Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. In 2023, he was a Fulbright U.S. Scholar at Hasselt University in Belgium. In 2024, he edited a case book focusing on conflict and dysfunction in family businesses.

John Kim

John.Kim@uvm.edu

Grossman School of Business

United States

John is the Graduate Programs Career Advisor and a Part Time Lecturer at the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business. Previously he served as the Head of Impact and Strategy at 1Row, a boutique consulting firm. Before this, he spent 10 years in CSR and ESG roles at The Walt Disney Company and Herman Miller. Prior to that he worked at Lipman Hearne, a marketing agency focused on nonprofits.

Earlier in his career, John served in the Peace Corps in Morocco, worked on food insecurity in Washington, DC area, South Africa, and with the UN World Food Programme in Malawi. He’s currently a board member of Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR).

He received his MPP from Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy and his bachelor’s from Cornell University.

Karen Lawson

karen@lawsonsfinest.com

Lawson’s Finest Liquids

United States

Karen is a graduate of the University of Vermont, with a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Karen and her husband Sean launched their brewery, Lawson’s Finest Liquids, in 2008. In 2018, Lawson’s Finest opened its popular destination Brewery, Taproom and Retail Store in central Vermont’s Mad River Valley town of Waitsfield, and distributes beer in 13 states. The company’s core values focus on cultivating a people-first workplace, charitable giving for local communities, and greening company operations for a healthy planet. In 2023, Lawson’s Finest achieved the highly acclaimed B Corp certification which designates their company as a leader in social and environmental sustainability, and is one of only 16 breweries nationally to become a certified B Corp.

Bruce Leech

b.leech@depaul.edu

DePaul University

United States

Bruce Leech leads the Coleman Entrepreneurship at DePaul. As a faculty member, he teaches courses in strategic entrepreneurship and business plan development. An experienced entrepreneur, Leech is the founder of CrossCom National, an information technology data/voice company. Leech earned an MBA in finance from DePaul and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Michigan State University. He completed the Owner/President Management Program at Harvard Business School.

Steve Legler

sl@stevelegler.com

Blackwood Family Enterprise Services

Canada

Steve Legler grew up as the heir apparent to his father in the family business that “Steve Sr.” had started before “Steve Jr.” was born. After dutifully completing his MBA to prepare himself to eventually take over their steel fabricating business, a liquidity event changed those plans pretty quickly. So instead, Steve spent a couple of decades running their “Family Office” even though that term was still not well known. Steve eventually got wind of the “Family Enterprise Advisor Program” in Canada, and somehow ended up there, just in time to have his “calling” in his late 40’s. He has since re-oriented his work towards helping family businesses, while concentrating on the family circle. Steve immersed himself in coaching, mediation and facilitation training, and continues to study Bowen Family Systems Theory. He is the author of SHIFT your Family Business (2014) and the Interdependent Wealth (2019).

Peyton Leveillee

peyton.leveillee@gmail.com

Teamshares

United States

Peyton Leveillee is a 7-year judge at the Grossman School and a Portfolio Manager at Teamshares, a venture-backed financial technology company that acquires small businesses and transitions them to employee ownership. In his role, Peyton manages a portfolio of automotive repair businesses, where he focuses on driving growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation. He joined Teamshares after successfully partnering with the company to transition his family’s business, Brad’s Service Center, to employee ownership. Before that, Peyton modernized and grew the 40-yearold company following his father’s passing, giving him firsthand experience in both entrepreneurship and legacy business transformation. Peyton is an alumnus of the University of Vermont and remains dedicated to empowering small business owners and future leaders through his work and service.

Suzanne Lowensohn

slowenso@uvm.edu

University of Vermont Grossman School of Business

United States

Suzanne L. Lowensohn is the Director of the MAcc Program. She received a Bachelor of Science in accounting and a Master of Accountancy degree from the University of South Florida and her Ph.D. from the University of Miami. She is a certified public accountant (Florida) and a Chartered Global Management Accountant. At UVM, she teaches managerial and governmental and not-for-profit accounting, as well as advanced auditing and the MAcc Captsone class. Dr. Lowensohn’s primary area of research interest is governmental accounting and auditing. She has published articles in Contemporary Accounting Research, Journal of Accounting and Public Policy; Journal of Accounting Literature; Research in Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting; Accounting and the Public Interest; Issues in Accounting Education; Behavioral Research in Accounting, and Accounting in Europe, among others. She is a coauthor of the textbook, Accounting for Governmental and Nonprofit Entities, and serves on the editorial board for several academic journals. Professor Lowensohn spent a sabbatical acting as a Governmental Accounting Standards Board research fellow and is currently a member of the Governmental Accounting Standards Advisory Council. Prior to joining academia, she worked for KPMG.

Natalie McVeigh

natalie.m.mcveigh@gmail.com

Founder and Consultant at Oikonomia Advisory Australia

Natalie is an executive and entrepreneurial coach and Master Neuroplastician (M.npn), specialising in Conversational Intelligence (C-IQ). She is a Fellow and Faculty of the Family Firm Institute, serves on the Purposeful Planning Institute’s Education Development Committee, is the Director of Research and Development at Aspen Family Business Group, Faculty of the FBA Accreditation Program through the University of Adelaide, and a Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP) through STEP. Natalie is a Certified Happiness Trainer and is an entrepreneurial and executive coach. She has expertise in complex conflict resolution, with a certificate in mediation, specializing in interest-based negotiation, and trained at Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation. She has experience in building and developing cohesive teams through utilizing assessments and creating training curricula. She is finishing her Ph.D. at Saybrook University in Applied Psychophysiology.

Olivia Mekkelsen

olivia@vtrv.com

Mekkelsen RV

United States

Olivia Mekkelsen is a Grossman School of Business (2019) & FECC alum. Olivia also has her MBA from SNHU in business management & marketing. Since graduating she has taken on management roles within her family’s business, Mekkelsen RV in East Montpelier, VT. She has spent time managing the rental, finance and sales departments over the past five years. The business offers sales, service, parts and rentals at our family owned and operated location. Mekkelsen RV is transitioning into the third generation of being family owned and operated. Olivia also got her minor from UVM in sports management and has coached at the local high school (U-32) at various levels. Her most recent achievement was being appointed the new Varsity Girls Basketball Coach at U-32 for the 2025-26 season. Olivia is excited and honored to be returning to the Family Enterprise Case Competition as a judge!

Stephanie Meunier

stephanie.meunier@uvm.edu

University of Vermont Grossman School of Business

United States

Stephanie joined the Grossman School of Business as the Cooperative Education Director after holding various leadership roles with notable organizations: PwC, TD Bank, Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, IBM, Cox Automotive, Champlain College, and Generac. Her experience gives her a deep understanding of organizational talent management dynamics and the ability to build strategic partnerships. Her prior clients and peers note her drive to get things done with a blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and interpersonal skills to adapt quickly in varied organizational settings. Stephanie is an alum of the UVM School of Business.

Will Nedds wnedds@gmail.com

KPMG

United States

William Nedds is an advisory manager and automation development lead within KPMG’s Federal advisory practice. After completing his undergraduate studies at the Grossman School of Business in 2016, William began advisory and consulting work within the government space. Now, six years later and after completing his MBA, William oversees the standup of business process optimization and robotic process automation programs within the U.S. Federal Government. Currently residing in Washington, DC, William is thrilled to return to judge GSB FECC.

Jen O’Neill

jennifer.oneill@uvm.edu

University of Vermont Grossman School of Business

United States

Jen O’Neill is the Employer Engagement Professional at the Grossman School of Business, focusing on the Grossman Coop program. She brings extensive experience in talent acquisition, program development, and organizational engagement. Jen holds a BFA in Packaging Design and an AAS in Advertising Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Her creative and resourceful approach has marked her career journey, integrating her background in fashion design into talent attraction and development roles. She lives with her family in the New North End of Burlington and enjoys boating, and spending time outdoors.

Lauck Parke

Bombi 1360@gmavt.net

Retired (UVM School of Business)

United States

Former Associate Professor of Management at the University of Vermont School of Business, teaching courses in management, leadership, and organizational development. Served as the Vice President for Undergraduate Education from 2001-2008.

Travis Perry

Travis.Perry@uvm.edu

University of Vermont

United States

Travis Perry earned his M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Vermont, and received his B.A. in History from Castleton State College.

Travis is a native Vermonter, and has devoted his professional career to helping undergraduate and graduate students adjust to college life and find the resources they need to thrive. He has worked in many facets of higher education, having spent time on the financial side while at the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, online learning and continuing education while at Champlain College, and as an academic advisor, in the office of the Registrar, and in various leadership roles at UVM since 2016.

After many years working with The Grossman School of Business in the Center for Student Success at the undergraduate level, Travis is currently providing results-based and student focused approaches to the graduate programs in GSB.

Rajeev Peshawaria

rajeevp@Stewardshipasia.com.sg

Stewardship Asia Centre

Singapore

Rajeev is CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre (SAC), a non-profit under Temasek Trust in Singapore, and the President of Leadership Energy Consulting, USA. He sits on the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Human Science of Environmental Action and advises Malaysia’s Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT). With 22 years at Fortune 100 firms, including Coca-Cola, Morgan Stanley, American Express, HSBC, and Goldman Sachs (where he co-founded Pine Street), Rajeev blends corporate experience with research-driven insights on leadership, ethics, governance, and sustainability. He is a bestselling author (McGraw Hill, Simon & Schuster, Penguin), a regular Forbes contributor, and recognised among the Top 100 Global Thought Leaders for Trustworthy Business (2014, 2017).

Steven Schlesinger steve.schlesinger@sago.com

SAGO

United States

Steve is the CEO and Executive Chairman at Sago, a marketing research company. With 40 years of industry experience, he drives the company’s growth and digital transformation. He serves on several boards including Inspire, Wordibly, UVMs Foundation, Michigan State University Master of Science in Marketing Research Program. His past board affiliations include the Market Research Association, The Overlook Foundation, Maplewood Country club, Beth Hatikvah Synagogue, and HR Acuity. He received the Quirks Lifetime Achievement award in 2023. A UVM graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Steve enjoys playing pickleball, tennis and golf, and spending time with his family.

Eric Silverman

eric@silvermanbuilding.com

SILVERMAN

United States

Eric Silverman is the co-founder of SILVERMAN, a real estate development firm established in 1981 in Jersey City. Over 45 years, he has delivered more than 2,000 residences and 500,000 square feet of commercial and light industrial space. His projects include adaptive reuse and new construction with a focus on housing, retail, schools, co-working and light industrial. Recent projects include Swift & Co., 150,000 square feet mixed use building, and The Hendrix, a transit oriented 44 story high-rise with 484 apartments. Eric continues to lead SILVERMAN in shaping Jersey City through measurable, community-integrated growth.

William Stevenson westevenson@gmail.com Investor

United

States

Will Stevenson is Director of Integration / Mergers & Acquisitions at Solitude Lake Management. Will received his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Union College in Schenectady, NY. He went on to earn his Master of Environmental Management degree from the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, as well as his Master of Business Administration degree from Babson College. Prior to working at Solitude, Will held multiple senior management positions in marketing, operations and sales for companies focusing in the software and real estate markets. Will currently serves as the Treasurer of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society. He is also Vice President of Timber Owners of New England managing several thousand acres of forest and recreation lands in New Hampshire, where he and his family spend time hiking, fishing and biking. Will is also a partner in a family investment partnership.

Sharon Tatro

statro@kbsfw.com

Kingsley Business Service

United States

Sharon Kingsley Tatro is the President of Kingsley Business Service (KBS), an administrative multi-family office. KBS was founded in 1981 by Sharon’s father as a financial consulting firm that provided tax preparation and accounting services to businesses and families. In 2001 Sharon joined the firm after a career in Human Resources and saw a growing need for UHNW administrative family office services. She also saw the need for better FinTech to assist in the back end management of family assets and straightforward reporting to help families understand their complex holdings. Over the last 25 years Sharon has used the FinTech she developed and grew the family business while helping families with their own personal finances and providing reporting services that allows those families to plan for the succession of their own. Sharon holds degrees from Syracuse University, Cornell University and Bentley University.

Chuck Tauck

ctauck3@gmail.com

Retired

United States

Chuck Tauck worked for Tauck Tours in various roles until 1992, and after completing a graduate program at Cornell in 1994, returned to organize his family’s business for tis third generation succession. Today, the company is over 90 years old and already involved in 4th generation planning. In 1996, Chuck joined a group transforming a New York Dairy farm into a vineyard. Today, Sheldrake Point Winery has 52 acres of grapes, produces 12,000 cases of wine and hosts 25,000 visitors annually, and is recognized as one of the top wineries in the Finger Lakes. Chuck graduated from the University of Vermont in 1976.

Jim Tessmer

jjtessmer1@gmail.com

Brown Brothers Harriman

United States

Jim Tessmer is the Head of Digital Product Strategy at Brown Brothers Harriman (BBH). Founded in 1818 by George and John Brown, BBH is America’s oldest private investment bank and retains much of the core values established by this family business over 200 years ago. Jim is responsible for leading the digital product development lifecycle, focusing on discovering, incubating and delivering BBH’s most differentiating digital solutions. Jim’s career spans operational, technical, product and consulting roles, including Department Head for Global Product and Platform Solutions at State Street, Senior Manager at Deloitte Consulting and Director of Digital Consulting at Genpact. While the majority of Jim’s career has been in the Financial Services sector, Jim also has experience in Healthcare and Public Sector industries. Jim holds a BS in business from Skidmore College and a MS in Information Systems from Boston University.

Beatrice Waesche

beatrice@genoawealth.com

Race Rock, LLC

United States

Beatrice Waesche is the founder of Genoa Wealth, a boutique advisory firm focused on helping multigenerational families strengthen governance, communication, and stewardship of shared assets. Drawing on her experience working within her own family enterprise, Beatrice brings a grounded, empathetic approach to educating rising generations, facilitating family meetings, and supporting transitions in leadership and ownership. She is passionate about values-based decision making, financial literacy, and empowering families to thrive across generations.

Robyn Worrall

robynpw@gmail.com

RJW Pharma

United States

Robyn graduated from UVM in 2014 from the Business School, and also participated in FECC her senior year. After graduation, she moved to NYC and worked in sales before deciding to join her family business, which is focused in the pharmaceutical industry. After working there for a few years, she moved into Business Development at a generic pharmaceutical company called Lannett managing mergers and acquisitions for the firm. Using the knowledge gained at Lannett, Robyn recently started a sister company under her family business focused on growing and diversifying the core business model her mom built over 30 years ago.

Student Volunteers

Joe Anderson - Facilitator

joseph.anderson@uvm.edu

Joseph (Joe) Anderson is a sophomore at the Grossman School of Business. Joe is studying marketing and pursuing a minor in emergency medical services (EMS). Joe represents Grossman national at case competitions, having recently returned from Lincoln, Nebraska. Joe is excited to participate in SG-FECC this year and learn more as a facilitator!

Sophie Ball-Dolan - Facilitator sophie.ball-dolan@uvm.edu

I am a Junior at the Grossman School of Business with a concentration in marketing and a theme in entrepreneurship; Complementing my business studies, I am also double minoring in Environmental Studies & Writing. After graduation, I hope to continue working in marketing, ideally in sports, small business, or entertainment, where I can help businesses grow through thoughtful, creative, and impactful marketing & communication.

Shannon Buck - Ambassador sibuck@uvm.edu

I am a sophomore at the Grossman School of Business with a concentration in marketing and a theme in global business. I plan to leverage the skills and knowledge I gain at Grossman to build a career in digital marketing.

Anders Buursma - Ambassador Anders.Buursma@uvm.edu

Anders is a junior concentrating in accounting and finance, with a theme in global business. His campus involvement includes the Finance Club, Grossman Case Competition Association, and Student Alumni Association. He will broaden his global business perspective during his upcoming spring semester in Madrid. After graduation, he hopes to earn a master’s in accounting and become a CPA.

Arianna Clark - Room Coordinator

Arianna.clark@uvm.edu

Arianna is a junior concentrating in finance with a theme in global business and a minor in economics. This is her first year as a room coordinator. Previously, Arianna was a part of the Media and Communication Team and worked as an ambassador. In her free time, Arianna is a part of the Grossman Case Competition Association and seeks opportunities to get involved in every case competition she can.

Anka Delos Reyes - Room Coordinator anka.delos-reyes@uvm.edu

Anka Delos Reyes is a sophomore studying Finance and Business Analytics with a Global Business theme and a CS minor. She is the Junior Lead for the Dean’s Cup Committee, serves on the Grossman Student Advisory Committee, is a member of the Grossman Case Competition Association, and competes nationally. She hopes to pursue a career in finance or risk analytics, driven by data and problem-solving.

Youssef Gdihi - Ambassador Ygdihi@uvm.edu

Youssef Gdihi is a freshman from Andover, Massachusetts. He is majoring in business administration with a double concentration in finance and marketing and a theme in entrepreneurship while also minoring in musical theater. He is involved in GCCA, marketing club, and real estate club within Grossman. In the future he would love to work in the real estate industry as he truly loves being around different groups of people and making personal connections.

Aidan Geller - Ambassador ajgeller@uvm.edu

First year student at the Grossman School of Business with an interest in finance and accounting. While unable to decide yet, has an interest in global business and a potential minor in economics. I hope to participate in many more business events, and continue to expand my skillset, as I am interested in either an MBA or a Mastery of Accounting.

Cameron Griffin - Room Coordinator cgriff19@uvm.edu

Cameron is a first-year undergrad with plans to concentrate in Finance & Accounting. His objective after college is to leverage his current internship experience into a career in equity research.

Kaelyn Hayward - Ambassador Kmhaywar@uvm.edu

Kaelyn is a third-year Business Admin student at the Grossman School of Business, concentrating in Marketing and Global Business. She aims to merge her interest in athletics and marketing to eventually serve as a marketing head for a professional sports team. Kaelyn is actively building experience in digital marketing, brand development, and promotional strategy to prepare for her future career.

Finnian Heney - Facilitator Fheney@uvm.edu

Finnian is a first-year student majoring in business administration at the Grossman School of Business. He intends to pursue a concentration in finance with a theme in global business. He is an active member of the UVM Finance Club and plans to attend law school following graduation. He is excited to serve as a facilitator for this year’s SG-FECC competition.

Sofia Hoenle - Ambassador Shoenle@uvm.edu

I’m a first-year Business student at UVM focusing on Finance and minoring in German. With experience growing social media platforms and partnering with emerging brands, I hope to combine my analytical and creative skills to work in finance, brand strategy, or international business.

Andrew Koningsberg - Ambassador alkonigs@uvm.edu

I am a second year Business Administration major with a double concentration Finance and marketing. I’m from Sudbury, MA and looking to expand my leadership and business skills.

Roze Kozub - Room Coordinator rkozub@uvm.edu

Rose is a junior concentrating in marketing with a theme in entrepreneurship and a minor in history. While this is her first year at SG-FECC, Rose has competed in the Dean’s Cup in previous years and hopes to continue her involvement in case competitions. Rose spends her time outside the classroom working as a pharmacy technician, and hopes to apply both her marketing skills and quantitative knowledge to her future career.

Sabrina Krementsova - Ambassador Skrement@uvm.edu

My name is Sabrina Krementsova. I’m a Business major with an undecided concentration and theme, and I’m minoring in Music Business and Technology. I play piano, guitar, sing, and enjoy several other instruments. I hope to pursue a creative career in the music or social media industry.

Alex Marshall - Ambassador acmarsha@uvm.edu

I am a third year student with a major in computer science, a co-major in business administration, and a minor in mathematics. I am currently exploring my horizons to determine where I want to take my career.

Fin Martin - Ambassador fomartin@uvm.edu

Hello! I am a First Year student in Grossman with interest in international relations, sustainability, and refugee work. I have a background in light consulting work and would like to explore that further in my future. I love to travel, meet new people, and find creative solutions to issues.

Ella McAnespie - Ambassador Emcanesp@uvm.edu

I am a second year student in the Grossman School of Business with a theme of global business and a double concentration of accounting and finance. I hope to travel and apply my skills internationally after graduation This will be my first year involved with SG-FECC, and I look forward to taking advantage of this opportunity.

Lizzie McCrystal - Ambassador emccryst@uvm.edu

I am a junior in the Grossman School of Business, concentrating in accounting with a theme of global business and a minor in history. In the future, I hope to go into forensic accounting and use my knowledge of accounting to investigate financial issues.

Keira McElligott - Facilitator Kmcelligott1115@icloud.com

I am a business major hoping to pursue a theme of entrepreneurship and a concentration of marketing.

Andres Miguez - Ambassador Andres.Miguez@uvm.edu

I am a current first year at the Grossman School of Business, pursuing a Business administration degree with an intended concentration on finance as well as a minor in economics. I plan on applying my analytical thinking and passion to contribute to future organizations and society at large.

Luke Nelson - Room Coordinator lukerfnelson@gmail.com

I’m a third-year GSB student and third-year SG-FECCer. In 2027 I’ll be graduating with a BSBA focused on Data Analytics and Entrepreneurship, and a minor in Music, with the goal of owning a business. I’m excited for another year of competition!

Ryann O’Carroll - Ambassador Rmocarro@uvm.edu

I am a sophomore studying business administration with a concentration in marketing, a theme in sustainability, and I am also pursuing a minor in sports management. Growing up in Buffalo, New York instilled a passion and loyalty for the sports industry, so I hope to pursue a role in the business realm for a professional sports team someday.

Lars Plaehn - Ambassador Lplaehn@uvm.edu

I’m a current freshman studying business, and have not yet picked a theme or concentration. I am very passionate about both business and people, and case competitions are a passion of mine and I find enjoyment in presentations!

Madeleine Reilly - Room Coordinator

mreill18@uvm.edu

My name is Madeleine Reilly and I am a second year student in the finance program of the Grossman School of Business, with a double major in the economics program of the College of Arts and Sciences at the university of Vermont. I am very excited to be participating in my second SG-FECC as a room coordinator and I look forward to building connections and gaining insight into the different fields that come with a background in business administration.

Joe Rob - Room Coordinator jrob@uvm.edu

I have a concentration in finance and a theme in global business. I’m an executive member of the Grossman Case Competition Association, a member of the school’s international case team, and the student lead for the AI Taskforce. I aspire to work in the agricultural sector, specifically in agricultural finance.

Tyler Rodgers - Room Coordinator

Tyler.rodgers@uvm.edu

I am a Junior at the Grossman School of business with concentrations in accounting and finance with a theme in sustainability. I would like to go into public accounting and obtain my CPA after graduating from a MAcc program.

Alexander Rubin - Room Coordinator

Aerubin@uvm.edu

I am a senior at GSB studying marketing and sustainability, with a minor in film and television studies. I am the co-founder and co-president of the Grossman Case Competition Association, President of Marketing Club, and sing in Zest A Cappella! I have represented GSB at multiple case competitions, which have taught me valuable business and life skills. I am passionate about working in strategic marketing or consulting roles.

Seth Rubinstein - Facilitator

Sarubins@uvm.edu

I am a current sophomore studying accounting and marketing with a theme in global business. I sit as the Vice President of Marketing for the Grossman Case Competition Association and I am a member of GSAC. In the future I hope to use my skills and experience of digital marketing and apply it to marketing campaigns for local business.

Emilia Scanlon - Ambassador

emilia.scanlon@uvm.edu

Emilia is a current Junior at GSB with a concentration in Marketing, a theme in Sustainable Business and a minor in Spanish. Using her passion for the intersection of world cultures, business strategy, and environmental responsibility, she hopes to help companies reach long term goals and profitability through sustainable, globally informed practices.

Carly Steenstra - Room Coordinator csteenst@uvm.edu

I’m a sophomore at GSB concentrating in Finance and Accounting with a theme in Global Business. Around UVM I serve as VP of competition for the Grossman Case Competition Association and I compete on UVM’s club swim team. This summer I’ll be interning as a credit analyst at Cape Cod 5 where I hope to expand my professional experience in the areas of finance and accounting.

Ben Stevens - Ambassador bsteven5@uvm.edu

I am a freshman here at GSB. I am a business administration major, minoring in music technology in business. I plan to apply the skills I learn here at UVM to an industry I am interested in, specifically the music industry.

Jack Taylor - Room Coordinator jtaylo44@uvm.edu

Jack Taylor is First Year Catamount, studying Business Administration. He is planning on concentrating in accounting with a sustainability theme and is hoping to go into upper management for his career. He is on the UVM Timbersports team and plays the guitar in his free time.

Grace Thompson - Room Coordinator grace.thompson@uvm.edu

My name is Grace Thompson and i’m in the business school to learn about human behavior work with energetic and engaged co-workers. I plan to work in Marketing. I play Ultimate frisbee at UVM where I compete as one of the top four best teams in the country. I created a successful grilled cheese business call @Cheesin 802 because I saw that there were no late night food options at UVM. I’m an active part of GCCA in the business school and UVM’s dance club.

Mason Warlick - Ambassador Mason.warlick@uvm.edu

I am a Business Administration major, with a concentration in Finance and a theme in global business, as well as an Economics minor. Outside of the class room I enjoy playing volleyball, pickleball, and spending time with friends. I hope to pursue a career in personal financial consulting, helping those who need it.

Sophie Warren - Ambassador swarren6@uvm.edu

I am a first year business administration major in GSB who wants to focus on business analytics or finance. I hope to utilize my skills as a DP-NC into my future career, as elder care is what I am passionate about.

Wolfie Weimersheimer - Ambassador

wweimers@uvm.edu

Wolfie Weimersheimer is an Ambassador for the 13th annual SG-FECC.

Elizabeth Wittaker - Ambassador ebernar3@uvm.edu

My name is Elizabeth - I am a second year business student at UVM, originally from Maine! I have declared a double concentration in accounting and marketing, and a theme in global business. Currently, I plan to pursue accounting, and do a masters of accountancy program, to put me on track to work in an accounting setting. This will be my second year with SG-Fecc!

SPONSORS

Major Sponsors

Steve has been in the marketing research industry for over 35 years, starting his career as a project manager and then working his way up to lead Schlesinger Group for the past 25 years. As a leader within his company, Steve has created the strategy and vision for Schlesinger Group as the world’s leading data collection company. He served for 8 years on the board of the then Marketing Research Association, finishing his tenure as the Secretary of the Board. He is a founding member of the Insights Association CEO Summit and continues his involvement, co-chairing the events.

Steven Grossman, a 1961 graduate of the business school, was the CEO of Southern Container Corp., a manufacturer of custom corrugated packaging and a business started by his grandfather in 1904. Since 2010, he has been a trustee of the Grossman Family Foundation of Cos Cob, Conn., a charitable organization. He is a member of the UVM Foundation Leadership Council; a former member of the Business School Board of Advisors 1985-1998; and has been a business school guest speaker on several occasions. Steven Grossman received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in 2022 from UVM.

Jim Keller is the President of Green Mountain Business Consultants, a consulting business solving a diversity of issues for international enterprises. He is also President of Rengo Packaging Inc. a packaging manufacture located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Mr. Keller received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Vermont. He received his Masters of Business Administration from Dartmouth College. Mr. Keller is on the Grossman School of Business Board of Advisors and the Indigenous Education Foundation of Tanzania, which provides for co-education opportunities in rural Tanzania Communities.

Adam Ifshin is Founder and CEO of DLC Management Corp., which he founded in 1991. Since then, he has grown DLC into one of the nation’s premier owners and operators of retail real estate, and one of the most active acquirers of assets with value added potential. Mr. Ifshin oversees DLC’s acquisitions and dispositions, capital markets activities,redevelopments, joint ventures, and corporate strategy. As a principal, he has been involved in over $4.5 billion of real estate transactions. Mr. Ifshin received a BA, cum laude, from Williams College, with honors degrees in economics and history, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa.

Robin and Chuck Tauck are both UVM alums and have been heavily involved in the leadership of Tauck, Inc., a third-generation global travel company offering luxury land, small ship cruising, river boating, event and safari travel since its founding in 1925.

Steven Grossman Class of ’61

Adam Ifshin

Jim Keller Class of ’72

Chuck Tauck Class of ’76

Robin Tauck Class of ’77

Steve Schlesinger Class of ‘83

Event Sponsors

Sukey and Davis Farmer

Class of ’79

Robyn Worrall

Class of ’14

Lisa and Dan Lehan Class of ’88

The Waesche Family

Case Sponsors

Case Selection Committee

Dr. Mira Bloemen-Bekx (chair)

Hanze University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands

Dr. Albert James Dalhousie University, Canada

Dr. Leilanie Mohd Nor Group CEO, BinaPavo, Malaysia

Dr. Luis Jimenez-Castillo DePaul University, USA