The University of Vermont (UVM) Grossman School of Business (GSB) is gearing up to host the 11th annual Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition (SG-FECC) from January 10 to 13, 2024. This prestigious event, often referred to as the "world cup" of family business, is set to bring together 25 teams from 15 countries across 5 continents.
The competition provides a unique platform for graduate and undergraduate students to delve into the critical issues specific to family enterprises while fostering academic excellence and innovation. With a decade of successful iterations, SG-FECC has become a symbol of global collaboration, with more than 800 student competitors from 66 universities in 37 countries and 558 judges who have participated since its founding.
A Student-Organized Event
Central to the seamless execution of SG-FECC is the dedicated organizing committee—a diverse group comprising students, faculty, and professionals. This team ensures that the competition remains the epitome of academic excellence and an opportunity for global collaboration. Students within the organizing committee take on multifaceted roles, including general event coordination, media and communications, and supporting judges. Their tireless efforts guarantee a smooth flow of events throughout the intense four-day competition.
"Participating in SG-FECC has been one of the greatest experiences of my undergraduate career at UVM. I joined the organizing committee last year because I knew I was interested in participating in case competitions, but I wanted a behind-the-scenes perspective first," said Nicole Sobczak, senior at GSB who is SG-FECC senior chair of the Competition, Recruitment & IT team member. "Not only has SG-FECC provided me with the experience necessary to go forward and be successful in competing in case competitions, but I have also been able to develop valuable professional skills, working with the incredible team of students, staff, and faculty that comprise the organizing committee."
"Looking back on the three years I've been a part of the SG-FECC Organizing Committee, I can say that this has been the biggest honor and best experience that I have had here at GSB. The process of planning such a large-scale event is a unique, ever-changing experience that is also helpful preparation for going into the workforce," added Will Tessmer, senior at GSB and senior chair with Nicole. "The entire team is committed to putting on a world-class event, and SG-FECC would not be the competition that it is without each Organizing Committee member."
Additional volunteers take on the role of student ambassadors who are welcoming hosts for visiting teams and serve as the go-to source for all competition-related information. Beyond their logistical duties, these ambassadors also get a chance to share the unique charm of Burlington—fostering international friendships and connections in the process.
10 Years of SG-FECC
The commitment, enthusiasm, and dedication of the organizing committee members serve as the driving force behind SG-FECC's success. Their collective efforts contribute to creating a positive and enriching experience for both participants and observers. As the competition unfolds, the University of Vermont looks forward to once again hosting an event that not only shapes the future of family business education but also cements its status as a global leader in fostering collaboration and excellence in this field.
SG-FECC recently was honored with the 2023 International Achievement Award by the Family Firm Institute (FFI), the leading global association for family enterprise professionals. This award recognizes individuals or organizations for outstanding achievement in furthering the understanding of international issues and global networks in multi-generational, family-owned enterprise.
Learn more about the history of SG-FECC and the students that make it possible.