The Invitational Division of the International Collegiate Business Skills Championships brought together emerging talent from across institutions, challenging students to demonstrate their abilities across a full spectrum of business disciplines. From rapid-fire problem solving to structured analysis and high-pressure communication, competitors were tested across Knowledge Bowl, Extemporaneous Speech, Written Case, and Case Study presentations.
At the end of it all, one team rose above the rest through consistent, high-level performance across every event.
New England Institute of Technology secured first place in the Invitational Division, delivering a complete and well-rounded performance that reflected both preparation and adaptability. Competing on their home campus, the team demonstrated strength in every component of the Championships, showcasing their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and execute under pressure.
The first-place team from New England Institute of Technology included Abigail Marino, Ashley England, Jacque Galligan, Leah E Huxhold, Shelby Sams, and Stephanie Encarnacion. Together, they represented a cohesive unit that performed at a high level across all competitive areas, reinforcing the value of teamwork in a multi-event championship format.
Finishing in second place, the NEIT Early College Program team delivered an impressive performance of their own. Abraham Oshinkanlu, Benjamin Saccoccio, Davis Collette, and Joey Nassar demonstrated strong capabilities across events, highlighting the depth of talent within the program and its ability to prepare students for competitive business environments at an early stage.
Rounding out the podium, Stephen F. Austin State University earned third place in the Invitational Division. Austin Gartzman and Will Phelps represented their institution with professionalism and skill, competing effectively across all events and contributing to a highly competitive field.
What makes the International Collegiate Business Skills Championships unique is its emphasis on comprehensive performance. Success is not determined by a single moment, but by the ability to perform consistently across multiple formats, each requiring a different skill set. The Invitational Division exemplified this standard, with teams demonstrating adaptability, collaboration, and resilience throughout the competition.
As the Championships continue to grow, the Invitational Division remains a powerful entry point for developing talent, giving students the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios and build confidence across a wide range of business competencies.
These results reflect more than just rankings. They represent a commitment to growth, preparation, and the pursuit of excellence in management and business leadership.