UIC Business Excel Club Earns National Recognition at Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge

Nine business students and one faculty member stand in front of a Microsoft Excel Challenge Banner.

Last December, nine members of UIC’s Excel Club traveled to Las Vegas to compete in the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge, representing the College of Business Administration among top universities from across the country. Under the guidance of Associate Professor of Finance William O’Brien, our students delivered an outstanding performance on a national stage.

A row of students sitting and working at their computers.

Throughout the competition, the UIC team consistently ranked among the top ten schools. In addition, Alex Guerrero advanced to the individual finals and helped lead the team to the team finals with strong performances throughout the year. Many students also participated in advanced Excel workshops during the weekend, further strengthening skills that translate directly to today’s business workplace.

Faculty Mentorship That Makes a Difference.

This success reflects not only student talent and dedication but also exceptional faculty mentorship. Professor O’Brien spends two hours every Friday working closely with these students—an investment that makes a lasting impact well beyond graduation.

“I am incredibly proud of Professor O’Brien and our outstanding undergraduate students—Audrey, Damian, Alex, and Evan—for the professionalism, focus, and determination they demonstrated while representing UIC,” remarked Dean Sandy Wayne. “Their achievement is a powerful example of how experiential learning and extracurricular engagement prepare our students to succeed as business leaders.”

This kind of sustained mentorship is central to the UIC Business experience and a defining factor in students’ success.

Preparing Business Leaders Through Experience

This is UIC at its best—where preparation, teamwork, and passion come together. We are excited to share this accomplishment with our college and alumni community and hope it inspires continued pride and engagement with the College of Business Administration.

UIC Proud!

—Dean Sandy Wayne