The WKU College of Health and Human Services is excited to announce that one of the teams from the Merchandising II course has been selected as a semifinalist in the prestigious NRF Foundation University Challenge. Out of numerous entries nationwide, only ten groups were chosen, showcasing the talent and dedication of our students.

Students were challenged to create a new and innovative retail strategy for Carter’s, a leader within the children’s wear category, that would achieve sustainable growth over a five-year period. They were tasked with creating a concept, developing a marketing strategy to support it, and a five-year financial plan. Each group submitted a proposal that included a 90-second “elevator-pitch” video. 

This unique competition allows undergraduate students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world retail challenges.

As semifinalists, the WKU team will have the opportunity to revise their presentations based on valuable feedback from judges. If they advance to the finals, they will present their case study at the NRF Student Program in New York City in January, competing for a chance to win a top prize of $30,000 in scholarship money, with second and third-place teams receiving $20,000 each.

The NRF Foundation University Challenge is designed to provide an enriching experience for undergraduate students, allowing them to engage with leaders from some of the biggest names in retail.

Mr. Seth Howard, WKU Interior Design and Fashion Merchandising Instructor said, “We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievement and look forward to their continued success as they prepare for the next stage of this competitive challenge.”

For more information about the WKU Interior Design & Fashion Merchandising program visit here.