Star C was pleased to be selected by Georgia State University as the model to study as part of their uVenture Challenge. The uVenture Challenge is promoted within the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies and the J. Mack Robinson School of Business. As part of the challenge, teams were given the task to study the Star C community model and produce a presentation to how to improve social and economic outcomes. More specifically, the student teams were tasked with a proposal that would: 1) increase benefits to Willow Branch residents; 2) increase positive outcomes for external stakeholders, or 3) reduce the cost of operating the Willow Branch property. Final presentations were judged by with the first place team sharing a $2,500 prize and the second place team sharing a $1,500 prize.
On September 24th, approximately 70 students visited Willow Branch apartments for several hours and toured the property and facilities with Allie Reeser, Keya Oates and Ana Choban. The students were also presented with the model and allowed to interview Marjy Stagmeier – President of Star C and owner of Willow Branch Apartments.
On October 21st, twelve teams plus judges and participants gathered for dinner and to hear the presentations by the students. The presentations were excellent and showed through thought-leadership by the students. Each presentation was unique and brought with it the experiences of the students with many ideas and suggestions that offered key strategic initiatives.
Congratulations to the winning teams – Team 13 comprised of Anna Sexton, Josh Morton, Tosin Olagunju and John Gunnells.
The second place team was Team 18 comprised of Mike Carter, Nephthaly Leonidas and Samir Alyateem.
