Lutgert News

FGCU participates in the 23rd Annual Collegiate Ethics Case Competition

October 24, 2025  / Lutgert News  / Tags: Business, Ethics, Competition

Florida Gulf Coast University’s Lutgert College of Business Ethics Case Competition Team recently competed in the 23rd Annual Collegiate Ethics Case Competition at the University of Arizona in Tucson. The FGCU team participated in the Southern Region division and delivered a strong performance, finishing behind Washington University in St. Louis and Iowa State University.

Competition team presenters Wesley Gordon and Marcus Wallace, and student researchers Kennedy Owens and Rex Weese
Competition team presenters Wesley Gordon and Marcus Wallace, and student researchers Kennedy Owens and Rex Weese

The team consisted of presenters Wesley Gordon and Marcus Wallace, and student researchers Kennedy Owens and Rex Weese. The group was advised and chaperoned by Taylor Daum, faculty advisor and chaperone, with faculty mentors Dr. Jenny Manegold, Dr. Eric Dent, Dr. Craig Randall, Dr. Amy Scott, Dr. David Guess, and Dr. Mark Case.

Teams analyzed the case study “Norfolk Southern: Derailed in Pursuit of Profits?” authored by Dr. Paul Melendez of the University of Arizona. The case explored the ethical, legal, and economic implications of the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

“I feel so fortunate to work with such talented and motivated students,” said Taylor Daum, faculty advisor and chaperone for the team. “They approached a demanding case with curiosity and professionalism. Watching their growth throughout this process has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role at FGCU.”

Kennedy Owens, a senior preparing to pursue a career in law, shared, “This case really challenged me to think critically about complex issues from different angles. It was a meaningful experience that helped me grow more confident in building strong arguments and defending ethical decisions.”

Freshmen Wesley Gordon and Marcus Wallace, along with senior Rex Weese, also contributed to the team’s success and plan to help establish a new Business Ethics student organization at FGCU to expand opportunities for future competitors.