Central Baptist College Student Takes First Place in Governor’s Cup Collegiate Business Plan Competition

Central Baptist College student George T. Fitzgerald, in collaboration with Gibson Hance of Arkansas State University Jonesboro, won first place and the $10,000 grand prize in the Small Business Division at the prestigious ACC Capital Governor’s Cup Collegiate Business Plan Competition. Their winning project, Bond Box Pro, stood out among top student-led business proposals from across the state.

The Governor’s Cup is one of Arkansas’s premier collegiate business competitions, showcasing innovative ideas and entrepreneurial excellence among undergraduate and graduate students. Fitzgerald and Hance impressed judges with Bond Box Pro, a concept that demonstrated strong market potential, strategic planning, and innovative thinking.

“Winning the ACC Capital Governors Cup is an unforgettable honor,” said Fitzgerald. “As a representative of Central Baptist College, this achievement means more than just success. It reflects our commitment to faith, hard work, leadership, and excellence. I’m extremely thankful for this opportunity and proud to celebrate this accomplishment with our school community.”

Fitzgerald’s success marks a significant milestone for the CBC Business Department, which has consistently demonstrated excellence in the competition over the past several years.

“Over the past six years, CBC Business students have competed in both the Small Business and High-Tech Undergraduate divisions of the ACC Governor’s Cup Competition,” said Dr. Kateryna Pitchford, Chair of the Business Department. “During this time, our students represented CBC as top-six finalists on two occasions and earned 2nd place in 2021, 3rd place in 2024, and 1st place this year with Bond Box Pro. Collectively, CBC Business students have won more than $25,000 through the ACC Governor’s Cup Competition. The mission of the CBC Business Department is to keep our students challenged, engaged, and inspired in the Christ centered environment, and this collegiate business plan competition is a powerful testament to that mission in action. It has been an honor to support our students as a faculty advisor at the ACC Governor’s Cup Competition over the years.”

Dr. Jeremy Langley, president of Central Baptist College, commended Fitzgerald and Hance for their achievement.

“This accomplishment reflects the dedication, creativity, and Christ-centered character we strive to cultivate in our students,” said Langley. “George’s success, alongside his collaboration with Gibson Hance, is a testament to the power of innovation grounded in faith and purpose. We are incredibly proud of their achievement and the way they have represented Central Baptist College on a statewide stage.”

The recognition highlights Central Baptist College’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for success through academic excellence, practical experience, and a Christ-centered approach to higher education.

For more information about Central Baptist College and its academic programs, visit cbc.edu.