07/09/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/09/2025 10:20
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MenuIn the Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. School of Business, PBA faculty are giving students unique, hands-on experiences that equip them to lead in today's global market. In May, a small group of PBA business students attended the Berkshire Hathaway annual shareholder meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. Open to any of the company's shareholders, the meeting gives participants an opportunity to hear Berkshire Hathaway leaders speak about company performance and answer questions. Students attended alongside thousands of investors from around the world.
Rinker School of Business professors Dr. Alexandra Cook and Dr. Scott Pearson are both Berkshire Hathaway shareholders. Three years ago, they began taking students to the meeting using their extra shareholder passes-giving them the chance to participate in real-world conversations about the market and investment opportunities.
This year's meeting was an historic event due to a surprise announcement from the legendary Warren Buffett that he would step down as CEO by the end of 2025-after 60 years at the company's helm. The trip also included a visit to the exhibit hall, where shareholders could view demonstrations and purchase discounted products or services from Berkshire Hathaway-backed companies, such as See's Candies, NetJets, and GEICO. Brooks Running even sold limited edition Berkshire Hathaway-branded sneakers. The PBA group concluded their day at the annual meeting picnic, where a barbecue dinner was served. They also enjoyed some free time and a visit to the Omaha Zoo before returning to campus.
"The trip for students is a whirlwind, with a departure after classes on Friday evening and getting up extremely early on Saturday to get in line for first-come, first-served seats," said Dr. Cook, associate professor of accounting. "The entry line is an experience in itself, where the students might spot well-known financial commentators, authors, and CEOs in line with them. After entering the venue and racing to get good seats, they can people-watch and buy concessions while waiting for the meeting to start. The energy in the room is extraordinary."
PBA business student Leonardo Rodrigo Vera agreed.
"I felt incredibly lucky to be part of such a unique experience with investors from all over the world who had different perspectives," said Vera, who is pursuing an MBA. "I learned a lot just by listening to their stories and ideas."
Full-time undergraduate and graduate business students are eligible to apply to join the annual group trip. Participants are selected based upon a short essay, with priority given to the waiting list and graduating students. Each year, three to four students are selected to attend. The Rinker School of Business funds the majority of hotel, airfare, and local transportation costs. A small student contribution is requested to offset the meals and some of the major travel expenses.
Additional passes for the meeting are occasionally available for students willing to self-fund their full travel costs. Students can learn more by contacting Dr. Cook at alexandra_cook@pba.edu or Dr. Pearson at scott_pearson@pba.edu. Those interested in applying for the 2026 trip can access applications here.
"Being at the most important investment event of the year was a dream come true," added MBA student Phelipe Figueiredo. "I'm deeply thankful to PBA for making this experience possible, and I hope I can one day help others by passing on the lessons I learned."
To learn more about the Rinker School of Business, click here.