In November 2024, the Princeton College Fed Challenge Team placed first out of 119 universities in the annual competition. As the winning presentation team, (pictured above from left to right) William Neumann ’27, Bracklinn Williams ’25 (co-captain), Eleanor Clemans-Cope ’26, Elliot Lee ’26, Manuel García-San-Millán ’27 (alternate), Daniel Sozanski ’26 (co-captain), and Bijaan Noormohamed ’27 (alternate), were invited for an educational visit to the Federal Reserve.

After traveling to Washington, D.C., the team met with a panel of judges from the Federal Reserve Board who answered questions about the competition and shared insight into areas where the placing teams excelled. Students then attended another educational panel about the challenge, followed by seminars from Fed employees on payment systems and survey data research. 

Following lunch, Chair Powell delivered a speech, which included a shoutout to Professor Blinder, former Federal Reserve Vice Chair and one of the team’s advisors, recognizing his impact on public service and the economics profession. Chair Powell joined the team and Professor Blinder for a group photo (see above).

Next, students had the opportunity to attend a discussion panel with former Fed Challenge participants who now work as research assistants (RAs) at the Fed. They shared details about their experiences, how the competition prepared them for a career at the Fed, and tips on preparing to work as an RA.

Reflecting on the visit, co-captain Daniel Sozanski said, “It was an awesome experience to meet Chair Powell for a team photo and hear how proud he was of the Princeton team and how excited he is to return for Baccalaureate and Reunions!”