A team of students from Western New England University’s College of Business has earned top honors at the CFA Society Boston Investment Research Challenge, winning the Local Finals on February 11 and advancing to the regional round of competition. This annual global equity research competition provides university students with hands-on mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis.
After initially being named one of just four student teams selected to compete in the Boston Local Finals, the WNE team delivered a standout performance, securing first place against strong competition from peer institutions across the region.
The winning team includes Nolan Chamberland, Aleksandra Dzietczyk, Zachary Killoran, and Madeline Jarvinen, who worked collaboratively to produce a comprehensive equity research report and deliver a polished investment presentation before a panel of industry judges. This is the 5th year WNE has participated in the competition.
The team is led by faculty advisor and Professional Educator of Accounting Tara Grealis, who guided students through the rigorous, real-world investment research process required by the competition with additional support from Associate Professor Dr. Paul Tomolonis.
The CFA Investment Research Challenge is widely recognized for providing students with hands-on experience in equity analysis, financial modeling, valuation, and professional presentation skills — all under the mentorship of industry professionals.
“This achievement reflects the exceptional preparation and professionalism of our students,” said Grealis. “They demonstrated not only technical expertise in financial analysis, but also the confidence and clarity needed to present their investment thesis before a panel of industry leaders.”
Dr. Tomolonis noted that the experience mirrors the expectations students will face in careers in asset management, investment banking, corporate finance, and equity research. “This is applied learning at its best. Our students competed at the highest level and proved they can perform in front of seasoned financial professionals.”
The competition challenges students to analyze a publicly traded company, prepare a detailed equity research report, and present their buy, sell, or hold recommendation. Teams are evaluated on analytical rigor, quality of written research, and the effectiveness of their live presentation.
With the local victory secured, the team will now represent Western New England University at the regional competition, where they will compete against other top-performing universities for a place in the global finals.
The win underscores the College of Business’s commitment to experiential learning and preparing graduates who are work-ready and world-ready — equipped with the analytical, communication, and leadership skills demanded by today’s financial markets.
