
Two of Methodist University’s business students just competed in MikesBikes World Champs, an international collegiate business competition hosted by Smartsims Inc. of New Zealand. The competition utilizes software for students to run a simulated bicycle manufacturing company within a simulated industry. Student teams compete by running their firm within the industry. Results are based on each firm’s ending share price and shareholder value.
Each year Smartsims invites the top teams from universities around the world who have used the MikesBikes Advanced business simulations in their business school. The world championship begins with all invited student teams running their simulated bicycle manufacturing business in a competitive Qualifying Round composed of four simulated years.
At the end of the fourth round, the Top 10 companies ranked by Shareholder Value across all qualifying firms move to the Final Round where competitors will start a new simulation and complete for six simulated years. In the finals, those ten student teams compete for the world championship.
The Methodist University business student team of Steven Downs and Cole Hart made it through to the final round and finished in fourth place.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo