Mexican Universities Compete in 19th Annual Collegiate Ethics Case Competition
The Center for Leadership Ethics, in the Eller College of Management offered its 19th Annual Collegiate Ethics Case Competition on October 14-15, 2021. The event drew 25 teams from top public and private universities from the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This year, students competed in a hybrid format (15 teams in-person and 10 teams remotely) on a case written by Professor and Founder of the Center for Leadership Ethics, Dr. Paul Meléndez. The case focused on deep sea mining. Students were asked to assume the identity of management consultants and their audience was senior leadership at Ford Motor Company. Students evaluated Ford’s electric vehicle strategy and provided recommendations on how to proceed with deep sea mining and electric vehicles. Their evaluation and recommendations took into account stakeholders, economic, legal, and ethical considerations.
This year’s event had the largest number of students from Mexican universities to date including: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) ENES Juriquilla; Universidad Panamericana, Bonaterra (Aguascalientes); and Universidad Panamericana, Ciudad de México. Jairo Yair Quintana (photo - L) and María José Noguéz (photo - R)represented Universidad Panamericana, Bonaterra and were Runner-Up in their Region which included the University of Texas at Austin, Iowa State, Indiana University, and the University of Vermont. Jairo and María were supported by their faculty advisor Professor Fabio Clavijo. Jairo and María said the experience was challenging, enjoyable, and educational. They also said competing in English was beneficial to building essential skills needed after graduation. The panel of executive judges included Mr. José Lever, Assistant Vice President, Mexico-US Affairs, Arizona Global, and Dr. Antonio Lloret, ITAM Business Division and Center for Energy and Natural Resources.
The Center for Leadership Ethics in partnership with various Mexican universities and businesses are planning to offer the inaugural Mexico Business Ethics Competition in 2022. In the 2022 Competition, Mexican universities will compete on a timely business case affecting Mexican society. The event will bring Mexican students, professors, and business to Mexico City together to raise awareness of the importance of corporate social responsibility. Participants will have the opportunity to network, receive mentorship, and build essential ties with leaders of the Mexican business community. For more information, please visit the Center for Leadership Ethics website.
(Photo: Paul Meléndez)