Hunter Beaton
Founder & CEO 
BSCL 2022, Moody College of Communication 

Day 1 Bags is a nonprofit founded by Longhorn Hunter Beaton to ensure children in foster care never carry their belongings in trash bags. Since 2016, they've distributed over 250,000 high-quality bags in 47 states. By providing durable luggage, handmade quilts, and essentials during key life moments, Day 1 Bags promotes dignity, hope, and belonging for vulnerable youth. Their mission is grounded in compassion, advocacy, and sustainability.
Top 25 Winner 
2023, 2024, 2025 Returning Winner

Jennifer Roane
Co-Founder
BA 2005, College of Liberal Arts, Life Member

Melanie Fitzpatrick
Co-Founder
BBA 2008, McCombs School of Business, Life Member

LeMel is a sister-owned jewelry company based in Houston, Texas. LeMel specializes in fine and fashion jewelry, including 14-karat gold, diamond, and custom pieces designed to be worn and loved every day. Known for its focus on craftsmanship, personalization, and exceptional customer service, LeMel has grown into a beloved jewelry business while staying deeply connected to its community through events, partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives.
2024, 2025 Returning Winner

Callie Jenschke
CEO
BJ 2004, Moody College of Communication

B2B fabric and wallpaper showroom.
2025 Returning Winner

Theresa Crow
Owner 
BS 2009, Moody College of Communication, Life Member 

Longhorn Fashions offers on-trend burnt orange and white apparel, Texas inspired accessories, custom hats, and gifts from Austin designers. At the heart of the shop is the custom hat bar, a must-visit destination for both Austin locals and visitors from around the world looking to create something truly unique.
Top 25 Winner

Angela Washburn
President
BBA 1989, McCombs School of Business, Life Member

Full-service Certified Public Accounting firm providing tax, tax strategies and planning, and accounting services for individuals and businesses.

Jason Bronstad
CEO 
BBA 2002, McCombs School of Business, Life Member 

Jason Stone
CFO
MPA 2008, BBA 2008, McCombs School of Business, Life Member

MALK is on a mission to clean up the plant-based aisle by crafting dairy-free alternatives that are as simple as they are delicious. Made with organic ingredients you can actually pronounce, free from gums, oils, and fillers, and always Non-GMO and dairy-free, MALK is redefining what clean-label, plant-based milk should be. With bold flavor, unmatched transparency, and just a handful of ingredients, MALK proves that "Less is More Delicious™." MALK is available at retailers nationwide, including Whole Foods Market, Albertsons, Amazon, Sprouts, Target, and Kroger. 
Top 10 Winner 
2025 Returning Winner

John Tatum
Owner & CEO
BA 1989, College of Liberal Arts

Genesco Sports Enterprises, Inc. (GSE) is a strategic marketing consultancy and sponsorship activation agency. GSE develops sales & marketing solutions for corporate clients through the optimization of their investments in sports, entertainment, and music. They provide best-in-class capabilities in strategy, negotiation, property/talent management, experiential marketing, retail activation, digital & social content development, and measurement solutions. GSE's client roster includes PepsiCo, Anheuser-Busch, Verizon, Visa, American Airlines, Lowe s, and BMW (partial listing).
2023 Returning Winner

Manish Seth
Co-Founder & Partner 
BBA 1996; MPA 1996, McCombs School of Business, Life Member 

Teakwood Global Services is a professional accounting firm committed to delivering reliable, high-quality services across Audit & Assurance, Tax, Advisory, and Client Accounting Services. Our focus is on long-term partnerships, structured processes, and measurable outcomes. 
Top 10 Winner

Nicholas Courtright
CEO 
PhD 2020, College of Liberal Arts

Atmosphere Press is a best-in-class hybrid book publisher dedicated to giving authors a rewarding and meaningful publishing experience. Our authors have won dozens of awards and sold hundreds of thousands of books around the world, and we're proud to be founded, owned, and led by a UT PhD.

Dax Mitchell
Co-Founder & Principal 
BA 1999, School of Undergraduate Studies 

We are a private investment firm specializing in net leased industrial real estate. Our experience and long-standing relationships open doors to consistent investment in any market condition. 
Top 10 Winner