Three Northwood University finance students secured a strong second-place finish at the 2025 West Michigan RMA Commercial Lending Challenge.
Northwood’s students — Collin Ridgway of Flint, Kamrin Van’t Hof of Westland, and Brendon Masters of Petersburg, Michigan — excelled in the event’s most competitive field to date, including nine colleges, 17 teams, and 49 competitors who competed in the Oct. 25 challenge at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids.
The RMA Commercial Lending Challenge is an intensive, case-based competition designed to mirror real-world commercial lending responsibilities. Over three weeks of preparation, students evaluated creditworthiness, analyzed financial statements, reviewed cash flows, assessed the company’s financial position, structured a deal to meet client needs, and determined the overall value of the opportunity for the bank.
On competition day, teams delivered two formal presentations:
• A morning presentation to a simulated loan committee defending their credit analysis and proposed loan structure; and
• An afternoon presentation to the client outlining their recommended financing solution — a format that replicates the full scope of work performed by commercial loan officers.
Northwood’s team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, teamwork, and analytical rigor throughout the process, dedicating significant time to research, modeling, and presentation preparation.
“We could not be more proud of Collin, Kamrin, and Brendon,” said Brian Rang, the Allen W. Ott endowed chair of finance at Northwood University. “This competition demands technical skill, clear communication, and sound judgment — all hallmarks of a Northwood finance education. Their second-place finish is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and commitment to excellence.”
Rang noted Northwood University extends its gratitude to Russ Mathews, Horizon Bank’s market president for the Great Lakes Bay Area, for his guidance and support throughout the competition.
