CMU finance students win top prize at ACG Cup

A team of Central Michigan University College of Business Administration students won the 2025 ACG Cup West Michigan, earning the top prize of $6,000 in a finance case competition held on February 22, 2025.

Team BHS Capital – Owen Brinker, Carolina Hernandez Ruiz, and Justin Soukhome – competed against 37 teams from 17 colleges and universities, applying financial analysis and valuation skills to present strategic recommendations that would impress a board of directors to a panel of industry professionals.

A record year for ACG Cup

This year’s competition included 136 students and 34 judges representing investment banking, corporate law, private equity, and accounting firms. Participants stepped into the role of financial consultants, analyzing complex business scenarios and presenting recommendations to industry experts.

“Seeing students push themselves beyond their comfort zones as they took on experiential learning and were challenged by the industry’s best professionals is the most rewarding aspect of the competition,” said Nathan Olberding of Adamy Valuation, who helped develop the case financials. He added that the competition helps students “prepare to become the next generation of leaders in our complex and demanding professional landscape.”

“The ACG Cup is always an incredible experience, bringing together top talent and outstanding professionals. I’m grateful to be part of the team that makes this event possible,” said Ashley Gray, managing partner at Aquila Equity Partners.

Industry connections and career opportunities

Students also attended a networking event before the competition, connecting with business professionals. Many past participants have secured internships and full-time roles with ACG member companies.

“Each year I’m pleased to see a number of competitors take internships or full-time jobs with ACG member companies. It’s a testament to the impression competing students make on our local business leaders,” said Gunther Brinkman, CEO of Baking Company and ACG Cup Co-Chair.

“It’s a great opportunity for finance students to get real-world exposure to industry professionals and learn how to ‘roll with the punches,’” added Jeff Edwards, principal of Reveille Development.

About ACG Cup

The ACG Cup Western Michigan is part of the global Association for Corporate Growth and is recognized as a leading ACG Cup competition across North America’s 54 chapters. The event provides students with hands-on experience in mergers and acquisitions, valuation, and corporate finance.