Second-year M.B.A. finance students at the University of Oregon's Lundquist College of Business participated in the Eighth Annual Hewlett-Packard Case Competition in November 2004. Student teams presented their analyses of a complex case written by Finance Professor Megan Partch and representatives from Hewlett-Packard.

 "There are very few cases available that fit our criteria, so we decided to write one of our own," said Partch. "We really wanted students to get a feel for what kind of financial analyses and issues they would face if they went to work at a place like Hewlett-Packard. The issues in the case are very typical of those found in the kind of jobs our students aspire to. The case also highlights the communication skills a financial analyst needs to have in order to be effective in his or her job."

For the competition, M.B.A. student teams presented to a panel of judges that included professors from the Lundquist College of Business and representatives from Hewlett-Packard. After the students made their presentations, judges took questions from the students and explained their perspective on the case.

Members of the winning team are Marilyn Andrews, Dane Christensen, Michelle Duck, and Aaron Godfrey. Each member was awarded a laser printer, courtesy of Hewlett-Packard.

Hewlett-Packard and the Lundquist College of Business have formed a strong partnership over the years. Many of our graduates have gone on to successful careers at Hewlett-Packard. HP representatives regularly speak in classes, bringing real world business examples and experience into the classroom.

"Our department's collaboration with Hewlett-Packard has added depth to the experience we can offer our students," said Partch. "We value very highly our association with the firm."