UNM Takes First and Second Place in Inaugural Rio Grande Research Challenge
The University of New Mexico captured both top honors at the inaugural Rio Grande Research Challenge, securing first and second place in a new academic rivalry that brings UNM and New Mexico State University together in a head-to-head stock pitch competition.
UNM’s Team — Elizabeth Kent, Abhinav Punnakuzhy, Ethan Campbell and Ananya Mulakala earned first place with a compelling and well-supported strong buy recommendation on John Deere. Judges praised the team for its clarity, depth of analysis, and confident delivery.
The second UNM Team represented by Jake McFall, Nico Huggins, and Samuel Landis took second place, also presenting a buy recommendation backed by rigorous research and thoughtful presentation.
NMSU fielded two strong teams.
Team 1:
- Aiden Mitchell
- Santiago Trevizo
- Yessly Camunez
- Paola Lozano
Team 3:
- Carlos Lozoya
- Ricardo Rico
- Stephanie Franco
- Jerame Lopez
Each team delivered thoughtful analysis and demonstrated notable professionalism throughout the Challenge.
A panel of senior investment professionals evaluated the written research reports and live presentations:
- Lee Munson, Portfolio Wealth Advisors
- Connie Lee, Lakeridge Wealth Management
- Sridhar Yarlagadda, Wells Fargo Advisors
Written reports were judged blindly to eliminate bias, and final scores were close across the board, with differences coming down to clarity, Q&A performance, and how effectively teams connected their analysis to broader market themes.
“You presented with the focus and professionalism that investment firms look for in early-career analysts,” Munson said. “Be confident in your recommendation, understand the larger industry themes and be ready to stand behind your reasoning. Clear thinking and the willingness to update your assumptions as new information comes in will serve you well throughout your careers.”
The winning team earned a traveling trophy, $2,000 in prize money, and individual awards. The runner-up team received $1,000 and individual trophies. The Challenge offered students a high-impact experiential learning opportunity, strengthening analytical skills, sharpening communication, and building professional readiness for careers in finance.
The Rio Grande Research Challenge will continue next year, with the 2026 competition hosted on NMSU’s campus, expanding this new academic rivalry and giving students from both institutions another opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Anderson is grateful to our generous donors, whose support helps create opportunities that enrich and elevate the student experience.
