Appalachian State University wins 2015 Spencer-RIMS Risk Management Challenge

Appalachian State University, of Boone, N.C., known in sports circles as the challenger that defeated the University of Michigan’s football powerhouse in 2007, has done it again, defeating larger and more well-known schools to win the Spencer-RIMS Risk Management Challenge. The victory was announced at the RIMS 2015 Conference & Exhibition Finale by RIMS Executive Director Mary Roth.

“Universities and their students are realizing the rewarding career opportunities that are available within risk management and the Challenge is yet another way for us to showcase this exciting profession,” said RIMS Executive Director Mary Roth. “Congratulations to the Appalachian State University and all of this year’s participants for delivering outstanding presentations. We look forward to welcoming them back as industry executives.”

Award-winning risk management presentation

Competing against 18 other universities, the Appalachian State team faced 100 industry leaders plus numerous attendees in a standing-room-only session at RIMS 2015 as they gave their award-winning risk management presentation. Along with their academic adviser, Dr. Karen Epermanis, the successful team of students included

• Eric Vickers,
• Wesley McDaniel,
• Bruce Thomas and
• Grant Jared.

Three months ago, 20 universities were each presented with a risk management situation that they had to develop a program to address. Eight of the 20 teams were selected to attend RIMS 2015, and that group was whittled down to three during the conference, with Appalachian State emerging as the overall winner.

Second place in the 2015 challenge went to Missouri State University, located in Springfield, Mo., with Temple University, in Philadelphia, coming in third. The first place university received $4,000, second $3,000 and third $2,000.

Brion Callori, the chairman of the Spencer Educational Foundation, said, “For the Spencer Board of Directors, there is no greater feeling than seeing the excitement and passion about the risk management profession in the faces of these exceptional students. Congratulations to Appalachian State, all of the competing teams, their academic advisors and to all of the professionals who continue to support our mission and the future of the industry.”