April 7, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - A student-managed portfolio team from the University of Alabama at Birmingham recently was recognized as the No. 1 finisher for the growth-style portfolio category in the undergraduate division at a national competition in Dayton, Ohio.

UAB's Green and Gold Fund was established only last year. The team of managers kicked off the fund with assets under management totaling more than $300,000. Funds raised go toward scholarships for the student team members.

RISE (Redefining Investment Strategy Education) VIII, the world's largest student investment forum, was held in Dayton March 27-29. Universities with student-managed portfolios were invited to showcase their success in the areas of growth, value, blend, alternative and fixed income styles of management. Twelve month risk-adjusted returns were used to identify the top portfolio team in each investment category at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Only the top team in each category was disclosed.

Stephanie Rauterkus, Ph.D., is the faculty adviser for the UAB group. "The students gain more than financial rewards." she said. "They earn valuable experience that strengthens their classroom work and helps advance their careers."

RISE VIII attracted 2,300 students, faculty and professionals from 257 colleges and universities from 69 different countries. Fifty-five teams participated in the portfolio contest. A highlight of the three-day event was a first for a university campus - a remote NASDAQ Market Closing Bell Ceremony - which was broadcast around the globe and appeared live on Times Square in New York City.

Participants are John Anandkumar, Jeremiah Blackmon, Laura Bordelon, Adil Faizee, Joe Godwin, Qasim Ijaz, Drew Kelly, Sergio Mejia, Nazeem Navodia, Samrin Tanzeem, Chris Winslett and Scott Yerkes.