Four undergraduate business students from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln earned second place in the prestigious Consortium of Undergraduate International Business Education (CUIBE) International Business Case Competition held at San Diego State University. The team’s collaborative spirit and strategic preparation enabled them to create standout business plan for Popeyes China to succeed in a market it had previously struggled.

Competing against undergraduate teams from across the U.S. and Mexico, Nebraska’s team included Ruby Lenzen, senior accounting major from Burnsville, Minnesota; Jocelyn O’Grady, junior management major from Falls City, Nebraska; Dermot Pogson, junior marketing and sports media and communication major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Logan Walsh, junior international business major from Thornton, Colorado.

“This team impressed judges with their innovative marketing strategies, operational improvements, risk assessments and ideas for competitive advantages,” said Richard Fishler, academic advisor and international business coordinator, who helped prepare the team. “Our goal was to put together a well-rounded, diversified team of motivated students with interests in global themes. Each student brought a unique academic focus—marketing, accounting, management and international business—which allowed them to approach the case from multiple angles.”

The team participated in preparatory sessions led by Fishler, focusing on strategy, presentation skills and the nuances of doing business globally. The team participated in a workshop with Julie Uribe, lecturer of accountancy, who guided them through improv techniques, body language and stage presence.

“Julie’s training was transformative,” said Lenzen. “Her ‘Yes, and’ methodology helped us build confidence and trust in each other, which became crucial during the high-pressure environment of the competition.”

The students shared that the team’s chemistry and mindset were key to their success. Pogson credited their mantra, “We are calm,” as a defining factor.

“We treated the competition like a high-stakes class project, and everyone contributed great ideas and constructive feedback to build out the presentation,” Pogson said.

“Naturally, a time-restricted competition against a number of talented people from highly ranked institutions can be a stressful environment, so we really emphasized staying in a positive state of mind and remembering to have fun.”

Lenzen echoed this sentiment, highlighting how teamwork elevated their performance.

“Respecting and celebrating each other’s skills allowed us to work cohesively,” she said. “We supported and built each other up every step of the way.”

The competition was not only an opportunity for students to showcase their skills but also a testament to the education they receive and the resources and mentorship available at Nebraska’s College of Business.

“This achievement highlights how Nebraska Business equips students with the tools and confidence to succeed in real-world scenarios,” Fishler said. “From case preparation to professional development opportunities, our students are well-prepared to compete at the highest level.”

For Pogson, the opportunity to represent Nebraska at the competition was a valuable experience.

“I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and to Richard for organizing our team, Professor John Kalu Osiri for recommending me for the team after taking his Global Issues (BSAD 320) class and the people I met that I wouldn’t have otherwise had the chance to meet,” he said. “It’s definitely been a highlight of my time in college and will be something I’ll remember for years to come.”

Watch their award-winning presentation here.

CUIBE was established to promote, enhance and foster innovation in international business education. Recognized as offering one of 30 best international business programs, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business is a full member of the consortium.