Clark Atlanta University Wins L’Oreal Hackathon Case Competition

11/20/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Paula Owens, Communications Manager
404-880-8521 powens@cau.edu

Clark Atlanta University proudly announces its triumphant victory at the prestigious L'Oreal Hackathon Case Competition, where two exceptional students, Alexus Lessears and Coreynn Teamer, claimed the 1st place title out of 58 competing teams. As a first-prize winner, they take home an award of $7,500. This remarkable achievement solidifies Clark Atlanta University's position as a leader in fostering innovation and problem-solving in the fields of business, technology, and inclusivity. 

The L'Oreal Hackathon Case Competition, held on November 7th, 2023, brought together top talent from Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) nationwide to tackle complex challenges in the beauty and cosmetics industry. The event provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity, technical skills, and business acumen. Of the 58 participating teams, Alexus Lessears and Coreynn Teamer, representing Clark Atlanta University, emerged as the undisputed champions, making their university proud. 

"Clark Atlanta University is thrilled to celebrate this outstanding accomplishment by Alexus Lessears and Coreynn Teamer," said Cheryl Jester-George, Ed.D., Director of MBA and Graduate Programs. "Their dedication, problem-solving abilities, and innovative thinking have brought immense recognition to our institution. This victory serves as a testament to the excellence of our students and the quality of education they receive at Clark Atlanta University." 

The L'Oreal Hackathon Case Competition required participants to devise creative solutions to real-world challenges the beauty industry faces.  Lessears and Teamer's winning proposal showcased their forward-thinking approach, technological prowess, and deep understanding of the cosmetics sector. 

"Winning this competition was an incredible honor, and we couldn't be prouder to represent Clark Atlanta University," remarked Coreynn Teamer. "Our success is a result of hard work, determination, and the support of our mentors, professors, and peers." 

Alexus Lessears added, "The L'Oreal Hackathon Case Competition has provided us with a unique opportunity to apply our knowledge in a real-world context. We are grateful for the experience and the recognition it has brought to our university." 

As part of their reward for securing the 1st place title, Lessears and Teamer will have the chance to intern with L'Oreal, gaining invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities. 

Clark Atlanta University extends its heartfelt congratulations to Alexus Lessears and Coreynn Teamer for their remarkable achievement and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors. 

For more information about Clark Atlanta University and its accomplishments, please contact Paula Owens, Communication Manager, at powens@cau.edu or 404-880-8521. 

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About Clark Atlanta University  

Clark Atlanta University was formed with the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College, both of which hold unique places in the annals of African American history. Atlanta University, established in 1865 by the American Missionary Association, was the nation’s first institution to award graduate degrees to African Americans. Clark College, established four years later in 1869, was the nation’s first four-year liberal arts college to serve a primarily African American student population. Today, with nearly 4,000 students, CAU is the largest of the four institutions (CAU, Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Morehouse School of Medicine) that comprise the Atlanta University Center Consortium. It is also the largest of the 37-member UNCF institutions. Notable alumni include: James Weldon Johnson, American civil rights activist, poet, and songwriter (Lift Every Voice and Sing, “The Black National Anthem”; Ralph David Abernathy, Sr., American civil rights activist; Congressman Hank  

Johnson, Georgia District 4; Kenya Barris, American award-winning television and movie producer; Kenny Leon, Tony Award-winning Broadway Director; Jacque Reid, Emmy Award-winning Television Personality and Journalist; Brandon Thompson, Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion for NASCAR; Valeisha Butterfield Jones, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Recording Academy. To learn more about Clark Atlanta University, visit www.cau.edu.