April 25, 2024
K-State marketing students excel at National Collegiate Digital Marketing Championship
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The marketing students who competed in the 2024 National Collegiate Digital Marketing Championship are pictured with Heather Grover, program coordinator, sales strategy in sports and entertainment, marketing department at Hankamer School of Business. From left: Lucas Dexter, Samantha Kopecky, Grover, Grace Cook and Sydney Polo. |
On April 11, four marketing students from Kansas State University — Grace Cook, junior; Lucas Dexter, junior; Samantha Kopecky, senior; and Sydney Polo, senior — participated in the inaugural National Collegiate Digital Marketing Championship. Faculty coaches were Rebecca Adams and Jo Lynne Stalnaker, both instructors in the marketing department in the College of Business Administration at K-State.
The event was held at the Hankamer School of Business at Baylor University.
Students were recognized for their performance in various categories. K-State ranked in the top 10 based on student performance as they competed alongside students from schools including the University of Oklahoma, Ohio State University, University of Missouri, Baylor University and Florida State University.
"Attending the National Collegiate Digital Marketing Championship was a game-changer for me," said Polo. "It gave me practical experience and honed my digital marketing skills in a fun and competitive setting. I not only learned a lot, but also developed crucial teamwork and problem-solving abilities that will benefit me in my future career."
In addition to team competitions, students also participated in individual divisions. In the Going Viral division, students had to answer various questions about social media platforms. Dexter won first place in this division by answering questions about X.
"Participating in the National Collegiate Digital Marketing Championship was a valuable experience that allowed me to network with industry professionals and showcase my skills against talented individuals from across the country," said Dexter.
Beyond the competitions, the event provided valuable networking opportunities as students connected with other faculty, staff, students and industry professionals. Discussions and social events allowed participants to exchange ideas, learn from experts and build lasting relationships.
"I am so proud of our students and enjoyed working with each of them," said Stalnaker. "These students spent countless hours of preparation outside their academic courses, and the dedication and hard work is a testament to their desire to excel in their field."
Learn more about the marketing program in the College of Business Administration.