University News

Western New England University Named Finalist in CFA Institute Research Challenge

Published: February 02, 2023 | Categories: All News, Business
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Western New England University is proud to announce that it has been named as one of the four finalists in this year's CFA Institute Research Challenge, hosted by CFA Society Boston. Joining Western New England University in the finals are Babson College, Northeastern University, and Suffolk University.

"This is a remarkable accomplishment for our students," said Western New England University President, Dr. Robert E. Johnson. "The CFA Institute Research Challenge provides an invaluable learning opportunity and I am confident that our students will make the most of this opportunity."

The CFA Institute Research Challenge is an annual competition that pits teams of university students against one another as they research and analyze a publicly traded company, this year BJ's Wholesale Club. The Western New England University team, comprised of John D'Aniello, Tom Hyjek, Evan McCabe, Adi Shah, and Nick Whalen will now move on to the finals, where they will present their research on their company and answer questions from a panel of judges.

"We are thrilled to be named a finalist in this prestigious competition," said Dr. Wayne Durr, Professor of Finance and Faculty Advisor for the Western New England University team. "Our students have worked incredibly hard on this project, and we are excited to see their hard work pay off."

The finals will take place on Wednesday, February 15 at 101 Federal Street, Boston. The teams will present in a randomly drawn order, with each team given 10 minutes to present their research, followed by 10 minutes of Q&A.

After all presentations are completed, the judges will tally their scores, which will be combined with the written report scores and added together. The winner of the challenge will be announced at a reception following the competition and will go on to compete in the virtual Sub-Regional Finals on March 19, 2023.

"We are extremely proud of our students for being selected as finalists in this prestigious competition," said Dr. Sharianne Walker, Dean of the College of Business at Western New England University. "Their hard work and dedication to this project is a testament to the quality of education and opportunities available to our students at Western New England University."

The CFA Institute Research Challenge is an annual global competition that provides university students with hands-on mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis and professional ethics. The competition is organized by CFA Institute, the global association of investment professionals that sets the standard for professional excellence and credentials.

The Western New England University community extends a special congratulations to this year's talented team of students for their dedication and hard work. They would also like to thank CFA Society Boston for hosting the competition and for providing a valuable learning opportunity for its students.