Once again, the Missouri State University CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Research Challenge Team finished first at the Kansas City CFA Society Competition.

This year’s event took place Feb. 21 at the American Century Investments Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri.

Extending an impressive record to six wins over the past eight years, the team faced Kansas State University (second place) and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Team members included:

• Adam Glebocki, senior, finance (corporate and investments)
• Ava Breitenstein, graduate student, business administration – accelerated
• Natalia Recalde, senior, finance (corporate and investments)
• Katelyn Huesemann, senior, finance (corporate and investments)

“I’ve wanted to apply my classroom learning to a real-world, industry-relevant report,”  Huesemann said. “This competition brought that experience to life before graduation.”

Besides the coveted title, each student received a $1,000 cash scholarship, a plaque and a CFA exam scholarship. The Kansas City CFA Society’s traveling trophy is also returning to Missouri State.

A competition that mirrors the real world

For the Missouri State team, the challenge went beyond academics. They analyzed a real company, built valuation models and defended their investment thesis under tight deadlines.

The competition also offered a realistic professional setting where teamwork was essential. Learning how to find rhythm as a group became one of the most valuable parts of the experience.

The process pushed students both technically and personally. From financial modeling to collaboration, every step required persistence.

“Asking questions and sharing ideas helps ensure you’re building strong arguments,” Recalde said. “The best ideas often emerge from constructive disagreement and meaningful conversations.”

Guiding the team to this victory were faculty advisor Dr. Megan Ramsey, associate professor of finance, and industry mentor Brad Wright of Wells Fargo.

About the challenge

The CFA Institute Research Challenge is an annual global competition that connects university students with investment professionals from within the CFA Society network.

It provides students with hands-on mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis and ethics, as well as tests participants’ analytical, valuation, report writing and presentation skills.

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