Centenary University’s Enactus team took an impressive third place at the Ford Mobility Innovation Challenge this fall in Palo Alto, Calif. Competing against teams from the United States, Brazil, Morocco, and Ghana, the Cyclones took home a $5,000 grant from Ford Motor Company’s philanthropic arm, Ford Fund, in the contest.

An international organization, Enactus encourages entrepreneurial, student-led projects that empower people and communities. 

Linda Poisseroux, Centenary business professor and director of Enactus, called the team’s finish “a proud moment for Centenary University.”

“This team was highly motivated to compete for this grant,” she said. “They displayed a tremendous amount of commitment in preparing the grant application, script, and presentation. It was amazing to see their professionalism and energy shine through during the presentation.”

In a proposal submitted to Ford in August, Centenary’s team described their concept for Shieldz Wearable Technologies, a wristband that warns drivers of fatigue through sound and vibration. The Cyclone team was one of six finalists invited to travel to Ford’s Greenfield Labs to compete for the prizes.

The team includes two Warren County residents, Colin Hudson of Hackettstown and Jessica Toribio of Phillipsburg,

Enactus Co-president Mariah Russo, a senior from Westfield (Union County), said participating with the team has opened her eyes to the difference students can make. “It’s amazing because Centenary is a small school, but we see what an impact we could have on the community,” explained Russo, a business major with triple concentrations in marketing, social media marketing, and management. “The opportunities I’ve been given through Enactus have been absolutely amazing.”

Randolph (Morris County) resident Brittany Bradley, a junior co-president of Enactus, noted that Centenary was the only New Jersey team to place at Enactus nationals last spring. “It was so exciting for us to be recognized as the number one team in New Jersey,” the business management major said. “Developing new products and initiatives and getting ready for competitions really prepares you for the workforce. Plus, helping your community makes you feel like a better person.”

Other members of the Enactus team who participated in the Ford competition are Daniella Peter Paul-Loor of Springfield (Union County) and Eddie Medina of Newton (Sussex County).