05/29/2026
You may remember back in March when our finance students competed in the CIFP Challenge qualifiers. Last month, they took their talents to the national stage!
On Saturday, April 25, Jacob Garagozzo, Jake Gingrich and Logan Capes of our Business - Finance (BFN) program represented Fanshawe at the CIFP Challenge National Finals. These students put in months of effort into preparing and put forth a stellar performance. While they fell just short of winning, we are incredibly proud of their diligence and dedication!
The challenge involved participants being provided with an elaborate financial planning case before being sequestered for 2.5 hours without access to the internet, AI, notes, or any outside assistance, with only a calculator, blank Excel sheets and PowerPoint available to them. During that time, competitors were tasked with gathering and analyzing information across the six components of a comprehensive financial plan. Teams then had 20 minutes to present their recommendations to a panel of judges, followed by a 10-minute Q&A session.
A big thank you to Christopher Clifford, Lesley Quesnelle, Ken Judge and Geoff Schnare for their support in coaching these future financiers to a fantastic financial planning performance!
Business - Finance (BFN) is a two-year diploma program at Fanshawe, available in full-time and part-time delivery, that prepares students for careers in Canada’s financial services industry, with a strong focus on financial planning, client relationships, and real-world application through co-op. Students develop in-demand skills in personal financial management, tax and retirement planning, insurance, investments, and estate planning, while gaining hands-on experience working with clients, assessing their needs, and delivering tailored financial solutions.
Comment “BFN” to learn more about our Business - Finance diploma program!