Students from the Gary W. Rollins College of Business claimed the top 10 spots in Tennessee for the Microsoft Excel exam track during the Spring Qualifier of the 2025 Microsoft Office Specialist competition. This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication and talent of our students.
Not only does this accomplishment highlight our students’ technical proficiency and commitment to excellence, but it also speaks volumes about the empowering, skill-building environment we strive to create every day.
Meet the champions:
- Dylan DeHart – 1st place
- Dillon Turner – 2nd place
- Thaddeus Weiss – 3rd place
- Rilee Ervin – 4th place
- Paige Proseus – 5th place
- Fenella O’Neal – 6th place
- Jack Whitener – 7th place
- Emiliano De La Garza Villarreal – 8th place
- Cailey Coates – 9th place
- Leah Easterly – 10th place
Each of these students demonstrated exceptional skill in Microsoft Excel, one of the most in-demand and universally valued business tools. By mastering complex data tasks and showcasing their abilities in a high-pressure, competitive environment, they’ve proven they are ready to lead in the digital age.
A commitment to empowerment
This milestone goes beyond the individual talents of our students. The faculty and staff at the Rollins College of Business put student success first, through intentional teaching and mentorship.
Thanks to Associate Professor of Practice Dr. Damitha Bandara, Assistant Professor of Practice Dr. Dilhani Marasinghe and Lecturer Dr. Zahar Abdeen for their efforts to prepare these students academically, and for their future professions. From lesson plans to lab time and coaching sessions, they have worked to ensure our students are confident, capable and career ready.
Please join us in congratulating these students and faculty on their success. We couldn’t be prouder, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll accomplish next.
Ready to soar?
Check out our undergraduate Business Analytics program or our Master of Science in Data Analytics at the Rollins College of Business at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
