CLEVELAND, Miss. — Marketing students from Delta State University earned top finishes at the 2026 Ole Miss Business Applied Sales Experience competition held in Oxford.
The event, hosted by the University of Mississippi, featured a two-round format designed to simulate real-world sales scenarios. Students were evaluated on their ability to build rapport, conduct needs assessments and deliver strategic presentations under pressure.
A three-student team from Delta State, led by associate professors of marketing Zina Taran and Lisa Cooley, competed against top sales students from across the region.
Representing the university were Andrew Dunn of Memphis, Tennessee; Filip Ratkovic of Serbia; and Aidan Hayes of Trinidad and Tobago.
Hayes, the 2025 BASE champion, earned the silver medal in this year’s competition. Dunn advanced through the initial discovery round and competed in the final presentation round.
“These students continue to prove that Delta State can compete with anyone in the room,” Taran said. She noted the competition is structured to reflect the demands of the professional sales industry, requiring students to navigate complex conversations, think critically and close with confidence.
Cooley said the program’s emphasis on applied learning prepares students for events like BASE.
“Competitions like BASE require students to listen carefully, adapt quickly and communicate value clearly,” Cooley said. “Our students rose to that challenge.”
The competition’s first round focused on gaining a prospect’s attention and identifying client needs. Students who advanced to the second round delivered comprehensive solution presentations and sought a purchase commitment.
Taran also expressed appreciation to Okra Closet and First United Methodist Church of Cleveland for assisting with professional attire for the competition.
Delta State’s marketing program emphasizes hands-on learning, faculty mentorship and participation in regional and national competitions to prepare students for careers in business, according to university officials.
