The 2025 Falcon Challenge

May 21, 2025 | 2-3 min read

Every student in the Falcon Challenge walked into the room on April 15th with more than just a pitch—they brought with them a semester’s worth of learning, collaboration, and commitment to building a business concept they believed in.

Students in Florida College’s Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management course recently participated in the annual Falcon Challenge, a one-day academic competition modeled after the popular television show Shark Tank. Throughout the semester, student teams worked to develop original business concepts and prepare full presentations. At the final event, they pitched their ideas to a panel of judges made up of Florida College business professors: Tom Quinn, Chase Clark, Peter Murphy, Brent Densford, and Brian Gilliam. These professors brought years of experience and real-world insight to the table, encouraging students and helping them see how their ideas could take shape beyond the classroom.

The purpose of the Falcon Challenge is to give students practical experience in entrepreneurship by encouraging innovative thinking, business planning, and professional presentation. In addition to gaining insight into what it takes to launch a business, students also strengthen their skills in public speaking, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving.

This year’s student teams pitched a wide variety of ideas, each designed to meet a specific need in today’s marketplace. At the conclusion of the event, the top team was selected and awarded scholarship prizes for their outstanding work.

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

  • Avery Binagia

  • Tessa Jamieson

  • Stephon Martin

  • Davis Collins

  • Alexis Lamprell

  • Thomas Watts

Each member of the winning team demonstrated strong attention to detail, creativity, and professionalism in both their concept and presentation. The faculty judges commended their team for their clear vision and the practical application of their business model.

This year’s event also held special meaning, as it marked the first Falcon Challenge since the passing of Professor Lee Quinn, who faithfully served the business department and impacted countless students through his teaching and Godly example. He created the Falcon Challenge to give students a meaningful opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations. His vision continues to guide the program, encouraging students to approach their work with purpose and a desire to serve others.

The Falcon Challenge continues to be an important part of the Florida College business program, giving students the opportunity to gain real-world experience while pursuing both academic and spiritual goals. We are proud of all the students who participated in this year’s competition and look forward to seeing how they use their talents to follow Christ and serve others.

To learn more about our business department, click here.