Truman State University wins annual ‘FanTAXtic’ case study competition

Deloitte and its Deloitte Foundation announced that a student team representing Truman State University won its 2021 Deloitte FanTAXtic national case study competition, giving the best presentation of an analysis of a complex tax case.

The finals were held virtually this year on Jan. 15, 2021. The nine participating teams were tasked with advising a new business venture on how to acquire engineering proficiency to develop their product during the global COVID-19 pandemic, keeping in mind how tax and other business factors would impact overall strategy.

Nearly 55 teams representing over 40 colleges and universities participated in regional qualifier events virtually on Oct. 30, 2020, prior to the finals. Truman University’s team consisted of students Laura Haarmann, Delany Borella, Mitchell Heberer and Erynn Glaesemann.

“The Deloitte FanTAXtic case competition is a valuable opportunity for students to get a glimpse of life as a tax professional and how those professionals work with clients to help achieve their business goals,” said Stacey Kaden, associate professor and accounting department chair at Truman State University, in a statement. “Students can improve their teamwork, communication, research, and problem-solving skills while getting to network with Deloitte professionals. We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in this competition and Deloitte’s sponsorship and commitment of the program.”

The 2021 FanTAXtic case study competition results are as follows:

• First place: Truman State University
• Second place: University of Nebraska — Lincoln
• Third place: Syracuse University
• Other finalists: DePaul University, Gonzaga University, University of Houston, University of Massachusetts — Amherst, University of Missouri — Columbia, and North Carolina State University.

For more on the FanTAXtic competition, head to Deloitte’s site here.