CBEI Extra!
Case In Point: Hands-On Learning Yields Community Impact
Sophia Bley Smiley Professional Events Intern
Dan Harris Smiley Professional Events Intern
Elizabeth Martin Founding Director, Anderson Classroom to Career Center
Introduction The Case in Point Business Solutions Competition, launched in spring 2024, challenges UW-Stevens Point students to step outside their comfort zones as they tackle a pressing problem for a local nonprofit. After a month of intense research and analysis, the students summarize their findings and recommendations in a 15-minute presentation to a panel of judges. The students are judged on the quality of their thinking, potential impact of their solutions and creativity of their presentations. The winning teams take home a share of $5,000 in scholarships, thanks to the support of alumni Mark and Julie Smiley.
Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Case in Point’s first nonprofit client in spring 2024 was the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. According to SPACVB staff, Case in Point was a “win- win for both parties.” Through the extensive surveys the students conducted, the SPACVB gained candid feedback from local businesses and insights that they “wouldn’t have gained otherwise.” For instance, the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau appreciated learning that some local businesses were unaware of their work and that others were willing to consider increasing their support of the SPACVB’s programs. The students’ creative and bold presentations have had a lasting influence on the SPACVB’s internal planning. “All the presentation topics have been brought up during marketing meetings or implementation meetings,” said Taylor Urquhart, director of partnerships. In many ways, the student presentations changed how the SPACVB thinks about and implements new ideas.
Case in Point is a unique learning opportunity which appeals to Sentry School students seeking to make a positive impact in our community while also building valuable professional skills. At the same time, Case in Point nonprofit clients appreciate the students’ fresh perspective on critical issues facing their organizations.
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Center for Business and Economic Insight
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