March 27, 2026
Ferris State’s American Marketing Association Chapter honored as top 20 program, claims third in AMA International Collegiate Conference competition
Students from Ferris State University’s American Marketing Association Chapter have the “remarkable achievement” of being named as a top 20 chapter in the 2026 AMA International Collegiate Conference competitions.
The event, which was held this month in Chicago, is sponsored by Deloitte and Major League Baseball.
Six Bulldogs represented Ferris State and competed against nearly 2,000 participants from hundreds of international chapters, including students from the Canada and Puerto Rico.
Jillian Clary, Melissa Zazzo, Ella Marciniak-Jennings, Emily Rogalske, Chris Spresney, and Carly Judge were in the group, as Rogalske, Judge, Spresney, and Clary were the four participants in the case competition where they finished third overall.
This achievement led Ferris State to place in the top six percent of all participating chapters during the weekend event.
“ICC was full of a ton of valuable insights. What I learned at this event can be applied to almost every scenario in both the classroom and in a professional career. I learned how to professionally present, which will help me one day in my future career,” Rogalske said. “I learned how to work with a team and be a leader when assigned to a group project or working with my coworkers, how to transition myself to move from classroom to a career, and the importance of having passion for the work you do.”
Students holding their award plaques while standing with professor Michael Levens, who is the co-advisor for Ferris State's AMA Chapter.
It wasn’t easy for Rogalske to decide on what the best part of the conference was. Between attending informative sessions about critical market changes, discussing more on how emotional intelligence plays a significant role in day-to-day functions, or even enjoying the Chicago landscape and its popular attractions, she said the trip was an experience that will benefit her for years to come.
“One of the biggest takeaways that I learned that can be applied to both in the classroom and in a professional career is, continue to grow your curiosity. Ask questions, shadow people in your field, and don't be afraid to lean into the risk. It's ok to restart. Even if something doesn't go well, it was still a learning opportunity, and it helped you grow,” Rogalske said.
Michael Levens, associate professor of Marketing and co-advisor for the AMA chapter, also noted that the group showcased impressive growth and engagement against competitive opponents.
“I am so proud of our students. It takes incredible dedication and talent to be recognized as a top chapter. It is an honor to work with them” Levens said.
A total of 344 chapters are now in the American Marketing Association, with nearly 10,800 collegiate members involved.