Division of Research & Innovation
University of Memphis Hosts CFA Institute Research Challenge at FedEx Institute of Technology
Regional competition showcases student excellence in research and financial analysis
The University of Memphis recently hosted the CFA Institute Research Challenge local/Mid-South
inter-university competition at the FedEx Institute of Technology (FIT) , providing
students with an exceptional opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in research
and financial analysis.
The prestigious competition challenges student teams to conduct in-depth equity research, perform rigorous financial valuation, evaluate ethical considerations, produce comprehensive research reports, and deliver professional presentations before a panel of industry experts. This year’s event featured strong participation from teams representing the University of Memphis and several regional institutions, including Rhodes College and Millsaps College, among others—creating a competitive yet collaborative academic environment across the Mid-South.
The University of Memphis team—Juanita Perez, Keshaun Hicks, and Andrii Lisovskyi—earned an impressive second-place finish. Guided by faculty coach Professor Napoleon Overton, CFA, and supported by PhD candidate Amirmehdi Mirshahvalad, the team prepared a thorough equity research report and delivered a polished and compelling presentation to the judges. Their achievement reflects both their dedication and the strength of the university’s finance program.
The competition was evaluated by distinguished CFA charter holder industry professionals, including Eddie Childers, CFA (Raymond James); Ross Harris, CFA (CEO, A3 Freight Payment); and Sreeni Meka, CFA, CFP (Founder, Lakeland Wealth Management). The judges provided expert insights, fair evaluations, and constructive feedback that enriched the learning experience for all participants.
Special appreciation is extended to the event’s key organizers: Jeff Brittain, Managing Director for Emerging Technologies Innovation and Workforce Development at the FedEx Institute of Technology; Brittany Clark, CFA, Vice President of ALM Advisors at FHN Financial; PK Jain, CFA, FIR Chair at the University of Memphis; Abby Spann, Executive Director of the CFA Society of Memphis; and Will Tobermann, CFA, Director of Investments at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital – ALSAC. Their leadership and dedication were instrumental in delivering a successful and impactful competition.
Hosting and participating in the CFA Institute Research Challenge reflects the University of Memphis’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning and high-quality finance education within the Fogelman College of Business and Economics. The event also underscores the university’s positive impact on the broader Memphis business community by fostering strong connections between students and industry leaders.
For more information, contact Dr. PK Jain at pjain@memphis.edu.