The UNLV College of Business chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA) is playing a key role in reviving hurricane-ravaged New Orleans. The chapter finished second at a national competition that brought the expertise of students at major business schools to bear on the challenge of rebuilding tourism, the principal part of the New Orleans economy.

Collegiate teams from around the country researched and analyzed the current conditions in New Orleans, creating a situation analysis, marketing plan, advertising materials and slogans. With solid planning and a simple but effective slogan--"New Orleans is open"--the UNLV business students finished the competition behind only the prestigious Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. The New Orleans Convention and Visitors' Bureau has already started to implement many of the tactics generated by the UNLV students and was so impressed that one student was offered a full-time job.

"This is a great learning experience for our students," said UNLV business professor and faculty advisor, Jack Schibrowsky. "They are taking what they have learned in school and are using it for the betterment of a damaged community."

The UNLV AMA chapter is open to students of all majors and provides the opportunity to network and interact with professionals; incorporate practical application of business and marketing principles; and provide assistance in professional development. The student chapter is affiliated with the national American Marketing Association and works closely with the local Las Vegas AMA professional chapter.