Twenty-four hours to build a solution.
Paul Quinn’s students had one day to analyze the case, develop an approach, and turn an emerging idea into a persuasive presentation.
2017 REFLECTION | THE INAUGURAL BATTLE
THE FIRST BATTLE. A LASTING STORY.
Before the Battle became a tradition, a team from Paul Quinn College took on an unfamiliar challenge, trusted its ideas, and became the competition’s first champion.
Adebobola Vincent Owoseni (center) with fellow participants, 2017
INAUGURAL CHAMPION
Paul Quinn College
HBCU Battle of the Brains | Austin, Texas | 2017
FROM THE ALUMNI ARCHIVE
What the first champions remember.
In a reflection first shared after the inaugural HBCU Battle of the Brains, Adebobola Vincent Owoseni recalled the intensity of representing Paul Quinn College at a new kind of competition. Students arrived in Austin with an ambitious task, a short clock, and an opportunity to develop an idea before industry leaders.
Owoseni’s account follows the team’s work through a 24-hour case challenge, the development of a technology-driven concept, and a final presentation at Google’s Austin offices. The experience tested creativity, collaboration, presentation skills, and persistence.
The team emerged as the inaugural champion. Its victory marked the beginning of a legacy that continues through every HBCU team that has competed since.
A COMPETITION THAT MADE HISTORY
Four moments from the first Battle.
The story shows how a single competition can create a defining moment for students and their institution.
Envision 2020.
The team developed a forward-looking marketing concept that incorporated virtual reality and Google Cardboard to bring its vision to life.
Presenting at Google Austin.
Under the pressure of a live competition, the students shared their proposal and defended the thinking behind it.
The inaugural championship.
Paul Quinn College won the first Battle and its $10,000 prize, setting the tone for the competitions that followed.
2017 | THE BEGINNING
In the room where it started.
PRESERVING THE VOICES OF THE BATTLE
The first champion’s perspective is part of our history.
Read Adebobola’s firsthand account of the inaugural experience, explore our champions archive, and meet alumni whose journeys continue to shape the Battle.
HBCU Battle of the Brains, LLC | Austin, Texas | Contact Us