Deloitte announces winners of FanTAXtic competition

A team of students from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, won the 21st annual Deloitte FanTAXtic national case study competition by presenting the best analysis on an issues-driven business tax case. 

This year, 16 teams were challenged to rank investors best suited for a startup enterprise while examining tax or non-tax hypotheticals the investor should consider. Participants also explained how commercial activities would impact the investors’ personal fiscal affairs, depending on if they chose to be a C or S corporation. Deloitte University, the firm’s campus for learning and career development, hosted the national finals on Jan. 20-21 in Westlake, Texas.

“I was extremely impressed by the technical acumen, bold ideas and teamwork this year’s competitors showcased — all traits that are paramount to building successful careers in tax,” said Deloitte chairman and CEO Steve Kimble in a statement. “I am thrilled students had the opportunity to network with our Deloitte Tax professionals, gain real-world business experience, and showcase their innovative ideas, creativity and team-building skills. I applaud all of the participants — well done.” 

Competition results:

• First place team: Southern Illinois University, Carbondale;
• Second place team: University of Southern California; and
• Third place team: University of California, Los Angeles;

“The Deloitte FanTAXtic case competition is an amazing experience for our students that allows them to build valuable relationships with other students, tax faculty and Deloitte professionals,” said Tim Hurley, clinical assistant professor at Southern Illinois University, in a press release. “Opportunities like this provide a glimpse into what a career in tax can look like, and allows students to demonstrate their innovative ideas, creativity and teamwork. We are proud of our team and grateful for the opportunity to participate in this competition and Deloitte’s commitment to this program.”

All participating teams in the national competition won the Deloitte FanTAXtic contest in their respective states. Before the finals, 47 teams representing over 40 colleges and universities participated in local qualifier events. Through case simulation and role-playing, the teams competed for more than $50,000 in individual scholarships and institutional awards.

Sponsored by Deloitte Tax LLP and supported by the Deloitte Foundation, FanTAXtic has engaged nearly 6,500 students since its creation in 2002 and aims to educate and prepare the next generation of tax talent to the challenges facing the tax profession. The SIU FanTAXtic team of Ben Morgan, Matthew Carrazco, Mackenzie Piazza, Jayda Smith and Lexie Lingle claimed a $10,000 prize and trophy.

“The FanTAXtic competition is an essential component of Deloitte’s goal to help better prepare students for their future careers, and we are proud to have hosted for the 21st year,” said Deloitte managing director Jason Hakerem in a statement. “The creative problem solving displayed by all participants during this year’s program is truly inspiring. I am confident that the next generation of talent tasked with navigating the ever-changing business environment is up to the challenge.”