Belonging in Business team impresses at National Diversity Case Competition

Photo left to right: Lexi Redd, Helina Brown, David Byrd

Our Belonging in Business team made an impressive debut at the 14th annual National Diversity Case Competition (NDCC) hosted by Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business on January 17–18. Competing against teams from 23 prestigious universities, the CofC team earned the Runner-Up Award in their bracket.

The NDCC is a premier event showcasing diverse talent from colleges nationwide. Participants engage in a competitive case study, network with corporate sponsors, and attend professional development workshops. This year’s case, sponsored by Grant Thornton, challenged teams to propose innovative strategies to enhance diversity within the firm.

Team members included:

• David Byrd (Junior, Team Lead): Belonging in Business, 1967 Legacy Scholars, ELLC
• Lexi Redd (Sophomore): 1967 Legacy Scholars, ISP, PAC-CAPP, MPS
• Helina Brown (First-Year): Honors ELLC, Bank of America Student Leader

The team’s success was bolstered by the mentorship of their advisor, Lancie Affonso, and invaluable support from accounting faculty members Josette Pelzer and Kimberly Tribou.

The NDCC was also a chance for students to engage with major corporate sponsors such as Delta Air Lines, EY, KPMG US, and GE HealthCare. In a LinkedIn post, Brown noted, “I’m excited to bring back the knowledge and experience gained through this competition to further my academic and professional journey.”

Congratulations to the CofC team for their remarkable performance and for representing the College of Charleston School of Business on a national stage!