Kristen Kogl Winner of Washburn Pitch Competition

Her business proposal for a durable, environmentally friendly dental floss holder was among five pitches presented in the finals round of the competition. Kogl, a junior from Topeka, is working toward a double major in marketing and entrepreneurship and innovation. Kogl said participating in the Pitch Competition taught her that preparation is important.

“Being prepared for anything that comes your way is an important aspect when dealing with business. I have learned not only the ability to thoroughly think through an idea but also the work that goes into putting together a business proposal," said Kogl.

Kogl feels honored to have had the opportunity to compete and is excited to see what happens next with her dental floss holder.

Second place was awarded to the team of LeighAnn Defendorf, Christina Foreman, and Brista Robinson for their proposal to manufacture and sell a unique ice-cream cone made with potato chips. The team of Mark Feuerborn and Kaleb Marconette received third place for their non-traditional luthier business that specializes in crafting personalized cigar box guitars. Fourth place was awarded to the team of Alex Moorehead and Matthew Palmer for Slumberalls, novelty pajamas for children and adults. Cassidy Wines placed fifth with a business that assists with the start-up of screen printing businesses in high schools to make business departments self-sufficient.

Additional winners were announced after the October 15 knockout round, and those contestants were recognized during the awards ceremony. The Top Freshman entry was awarded to Cassidy Wines. The Top Washburn Institute of Technology entry was awarded to Benjamin Freeman and Paul Lady for an electromagnetic brake system.

The Pitch Competition is made possible through a collaborative partnership with Go Topeka.