Huntsman School Students Sweep Top Honors at Microsoft's Hack4Good 3.0

Jon M. Huntsman School of Business students recently made their mark on the global stage, participating in Hack4Good 3.0, a high-impact initiative hosted by Microsoft that challenges participants to develop AI-powered solutions for nonprofits.

This year’s event brought together students, Microsoft employees, industry professionals and nonprofit leaders to tackle some of today’s most pressing societal issues.

The experience kicked off virtually on Jan. 22, with weekly preparation calls leading up to the final in-person event in Bellevue, Washington, from March 24-27. Students from USU collaborated on interdisciplinary teams alongside peers from the University of Maryland, industry mentors and global nonprofit organizations.

Through their participation, students not only created mission-driven, innovative tools using artificial intelligence but also gained real-world experience in cross-functional teamwork, problem-solving and social impact design. The event concluded at the Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit on March 27, where teams presented their final projects to an audience of leaders and changemakers.

USU students played key roles on all three winning teams:

• 1st Place: Conservation International — Brianna Brown, data analytics.
• 2nd Place: Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation — Tiandra Taylor, MMIS.
• 3rd Place: Goodwill Industries International — Lydia Wright, data analytics, and Brooke Monson, information systems

"My experience at Microsoft Hack4Good was truly unforgettable,” said Hope Johnson, DAIS student & data engineer at the Analytics Solutions Center. “It was inspiring to collaborate with passionate people and use technology for a great cause. I learned so much about innovation, teamwork and making a real impact. The entire experience really shows the power of technology to create positive change.”

As a final touch to their journey, the USU student group shared a moment of Aggie pride by performing the iconic Scotsman cheer during the event. Check out the video here: Watch the Scotsman.

“Our students jumped in with both feet — networking confidently, collaborating closely with professionals from across the country and representing Utah State University with excellence,” said Polly Conrad, senior lecturer in Data Analytics and Information Systems and director of student experience at the Analytics Solutions Center. “They brought the Aggie spirit to every interaction. It was amazing to watch them grow, contribute meaningfully and leave their mark on such an impactful global event.”