Business Commons^™

The Effect Of Factors And Constraints On Sporting Attendance, Joshua D. Whitlow

Honors Theses

21,625 fans packed the confines of Brooks stadium on September 3, 2022, for a clash between the Army Black Knights football team and the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers football team. This was a new record at Brooks stadium, and was followed with just 12,261 the next week vs. Gardner Webb. Meanwhile, a 2022 Coastal Carolina Women’s Soccer game draws in less than 200 spectators. On the surface level, the disparity of these numbers appears confusing and unconnected to one another, however there are a multitude of factors that go into the number of people who show up to a particular sporting …

College Student Attitudes Toward Student-Athlete's Ability To Profit From Name, Image, And Likeness (Nil), Daniel G. Panzano

Honors Theses

Since the recent passing of legislation allowing student-athletes to profit from their own personal brands and sponsorships (Name, Image, and Likeness; NIL), there has been very little research. The purpose of this study was to measure the attitudes and support students have towards the financial compensation of their student-athlete counterparts. The researchers surveyed 67 Coastal Carolina University students. Using a quantitative study, data was gathered pertaining to the opinions toward NIL, feelings of team affiliation, and demographic information. Statistically significant differences were found toward some elements of NIL and gender, major, and academic year. A statistically significant correlation was also …

Developing A Positive Self-Talk Toolbox, Megan Wagner

Honors Theses

The following thesis demonstrates how individuals can overcome high-pressure situations in both the business and athletic environments. Individuals are asked to perform in many different aspects of their lives. Oftentimes, individuals feel pressure when asked to perform at their optimal level. While there are many tactical skills to help individuals improve their skillset for a particular performance area, this thesis argues that a positive mindset can increase individual’s performance levels during the act of performing. Primary research has been conducted between two different research groups (business professionals and athletes) to determine that pressure exists in each respective environment based on …

Ralph Lauren Strategic Analysis, Baylee Christoffersen

Honors Theses

Ralph Lauren is an apparel company with ownership of many other well-known companies such as Polo Ralph Lauren and Polo Jeans Company. The company specializes in luxury items. Their business model focuses on providing top quality products that are timeless, authentic and inspirational. An analysis of their business strategy will discuss the influential factors on the industry and the company itself using a SWOT analysis. This will identify how Ralph Lauren approaches their opportunities and threats to the company as well as how they address their strengths and weaknesses. Porter’s Five Forces will also be used to determine how Ralph …

United Express Strategic Audit, Ryan Hakim

Honors Theses

United Express is the regional brand of United Airlines, a worldwide airline from the United States. United Express provides excellent domestic and international service from smaller airports to United Airlines hubs. With a volatile and solid industry of vast competition and operational styles, this report seeks to give an industry analysis of the regional airline industry with relation to United Express’ position. It surveys the industry using a PESTLE analysis along with Michael E. Porter’s Five Competitive Forces Model. United Express has many resources and competitive advantages which headline the advantages it boasts to be a regional airline industry leader. …

Diver Perceived Value And Satisfaction On The Mississippi Gulf Coast, Ka'lon Duncanson

Honors Theses

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is known for its coastal beauty and the tourism that comes from the recreational activities associated with the water. However, there appears to be an underserved segment of the tourism industry. The coast provides opportunities for local scuba divers to take part in a range of diving activities, but there is minimal support for this tourism activity in Mississippi. There is a need for greater understanding about what local divers value in their diving experiences and how this might lead to greater satisfaction with this activity. Along with overall perceived value, the argument is made that …

Strategic Audit Of Dunkin Brands, Maggie Madej

Honors Theses

Dunkin Brands is the parent company that operates franchises, and one of its most well-known subsidiaries is Dunkin' Donuts. This establishment, rooted in the United States but with a global presence, is a significant player in the coffee and donut shop industry. This paper provides a background on Dunkin Brands and analyzes their internal and external environment, firm strategy, and corporate governance. The analysis uses theories and principles learned in management, such as Porter’s Five Forces and PESTEL analysis. Additionally, strategic recommendations were made for Dunkin Brands' next steps to continue dominating the coffee and donut shop industry.

Mattel Strategic Audit, Ellie Anderson, Samuel Gertner, Logan Connealy, Julia Michner, Chris Payant

Honors Theses

This case study focuses on Mattel, Inc., a prominent company in the toy industry. To complete the case study, we conducted a strategic audit utilizing different theories and principles used in management. We conducted significant research using publicly available information, including the company’s website, SEC filings, news articles, industry analysis, and more. The goal of the report is to analyze data and use a real-world company to apply management concepts.

We looked at many factors for Mattel, including industry analysis, external analysis, internal analysis, performance analysis, competitive dynamics, business level strategy, and corporate level strategy to complete the case study. …

General Electric Renewable Energy Strategic Audit, Jarod Fox

Honors Theses

General Electric (GE) is a large multinational conglomerate in various industrial machinery industries. Currently, GE operates through four main sectors - Aviation, Power, Healthcare, and Renewable Energy. This report specifically focuses on the Renewable Energy sector and analyzes General Electric’s ability to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage in this complex industry. The paper provides a background on GE, information on the industry and rivals within the industry, and how GE has a competitive advantage. To demonstrate this sustainable competitive advantage, an external and internal analysis has been created through the frameworks of Porter’s Five Forces and PESTEL Analysis. Additionally, strategic …

The Interaction Of Loyalty Status And Need For Status On Rewards Donations Through Perceived Social Exclusion, Clancy Slay

Honors Theses

Rewards programs are commonplace with companies seeking a competitive advantage and creating consumer loyalty. A newer development in rewards programs allows consumers to donate points rather than personally receiving these benefits. With more than $48 billion moving through these programs annually, understanding how to encourage consumers to donate rewards points has tremendous implications for reallocating funds to support worthy causes (Dorotic et al., 2017). Research on consumer donations within rewards programs is virtually absent, and many unique factors to these programs suggest prior findings on charitable giving may not generalize. One of these factors is the prevalence of hierarchical or …

Audio-Technica Strategic Audit, Caleb Druckemiller

Honors Theses

Audio-Technica is a multinational audio equipment design and manufacturing company specializing in the production of headphones, microphones, and turntables. The company has been a gold standard for professional use since its inception and has recently ventured into consumer markets. Using both internal and external analysis tools, this audit aims to evaluate how Audio-Technica has established itself in the highly competitive audio equipment industry. Specific techniques include Porter’s Five Forces and PESTEL analyses. After conducting this examination of Audio-Techinca and its industry environment, strategic recommendations will be made to best position the company moving forward.

Union Pacific Railroad Company Strategic Audit, Alison Steger

Honors Theses

Union Pacific Railroad Company (Union Pacific, UP, UPRR) is a freight railroad based in Omaha, Nebraska, servicing 23 states in America, with additional ports and country interchanges. The 160-year history of this railroad began with Abraham Lincoln and continues into 2023, with the recent announcement of CEO Lance Fritz’s departure. A PESTEL analysis provides an in-depth look at UP's external operating environment, and Porter’s Five Forces industry analysis assesses the industry's competitive environment. Analyses of Union Pacific's competitive advantages, essential resources, and projected roadblocks are followed by strategic recommendations for UP to remain a Class I freight railroad industry leader.

An Examination Of Financial Accounting Through Case Studies And Discussion, Andrew Meyer

Honors Theses

This thesis is a collection of eleven case studies completed over the course of the 2021-2022 academic year in the Patterson School of Accountancy in the ACCY 420 course, under the direction of Dr. Victoria Dickinson. The cases cover a broad array of concepts within the field of accounting. A few examples of topics include the impact of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on business in America, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the financials of Pfizer Inc., and an interview with a successful entrepreneur. From Case 6 on, the thesis is comprised of an analysis of the …

Fedex And Other Case Studies, Anderson Martin

Honors Theses

This thesis includes nine case studies on accounting topics and uses. In our Honors Accountancy Thesis class, we researched various topics in the field of accounting. Following this research, we constructed case studies employing different methods and styles. Three of the case studies were completed individually, while the other six were completed in a group of 3-5 members. The case studies honed my skills in research, communication, and teamwork. Furthermore, I developed confidence in my public speaking as well as earning a certification in excel.

The first case studies are focused on unique topics or events. The final five cases …

Financial Accounting Case Studies, Warren Spence Graves

Honors Theses

This thesis is a collection of eleven accounting case studies completed during the ACCY 420 course, taught by Dr. Victoria Dickinson within the 2021-2022 academic year. These cases cover a wide variety of topics within the scope of accounting, including the ramifications of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, on businesses and the effects COVID-19 had on Pfizer Inc. Other studies completed ranged from examining a city for potential future residence, an interview with a local business owner, and an excel verification course. Case 6 through Case 11 focuses on the analysis of ExxonMobil and its financials, conducted by …

An Analysis Of Key Financial Accounting Topics, Alec White

Honors Theses

The Accounting Capstone Project is to design to help accounting students consider problems throughout the accounting industry. To accomplish this, students will complete several case studies dealing with areas of financial reporting. My group and I decided to present potential tax-saving strategies for Apple Inc.

An Analysis Of Accounting Concepts Through Case Studies, Molly Medling

Honors Theses

This thesis aims to provide a holistic picture of the accounting profession through various topics in the field. Divided into case studies, each case examines a particular accounting issue or concept through research and analysis. These cases range from an examination of the events of 9/11 through the lens of the accounting profession to a multiple-case analysis of International Paper Company’s financial position and future actions. Several online articles, financial reports, and accounting courses were used to inform the information included in this thesis. These sources were not only used to provide an analysis of accounting concepts, but also to …

Brand On The Run: The Effects Of Internal And External Stakeholder Communication Of Corporate Rebranding Efforts, Abby Vandiver

Honors Theses

A company’s most valuable asset is its brand. Not just limited to its name and logo, a brand is loosely defined as the identity of an organization. A strong brand identity can create strong customer loyalty. Changing even a part of this identity can cause confusion and ultimately revenue loss. This study examined how business owners and marketers communicate with their stakeholders when they decide a rebrand is necessary. After researching current literature on this topic, businesses in Oxford, Mississippi which have undergone a rebrand in the last decade were recruited to answer questions. Ten organizations participated either through interview …

Financial Accounting Case Studies, John A. Batson Jr

Honors Theses

This thesis was completed in the 2021-2022 academic year and is comprised of eleven accounting case studies. The topics from these cases vary widely and are not strictly focused on accounting. Examples of this includes cases done on the twenty-year anniversary of 9/11, the ramifications of COVID-19 on Pfizer, and having to interview a local business owner. We also completed cases concerning the city we wanted to intern in as well as an excel certification course. Following the conclusion of case 5, me and several other honors students worked together to complete the next six cases which involved analyzing International …

Diverse Analyses Of Accounting: A Series Of Case Studies, Hannah Harris

Honors Theses

This thesis consists of a diverse variety of case studies surrounded accounting and accounting-related issues. The first five cases span a broad range of topics, such as 9/11 and COVID-19 and their effects on the accounting industry. The last five cases, which were completed as a team, provide an in-depth analysis of Goldman Sachs, mostly through the team’s study of their 2020 and 2021 financial statements. These cases provide an overview of the company and the team’s suggested improvements in each line of service—audit, tax, advisory, and risk advisory. Through these cases, I was provided a much deeper insight into …

2021-2022 Accounting Practicum: A Sequence Of Financial Accounting Case Studies, Virginia Barksdale

Honors Theses

The following set of financial accounting case studies represents two semesters of work under Dr. Victoria Dickinson at the University of Mississippi’s Patterson School of Accountancy. As is customary for the Honors Accounting Practicum, subjects covered included current events – e.g., the anniversary of 9-11 and the COVID-19 pandemic – as well as the conceptual frameworks of different financial accounting disciplines. Some cases were more research focused while others involved specific deliverables relevant to the topic of the week. All case studies required the integration of knowledge from past coursework with the knowledge gained through the cases themselves. The work …

Analysis Of Financial Accounting Principles Through Case Studies, Mary Lauren Crane

Honors Theses

This thesis is a compilation of ten case studies completed throughout the 2021-2022 academic year under the direction of Dr. Victoria Dickinson. The first five cases look at various aspects of the accounting world and profession ranging from the effects of COVID-19 on the market to researching a potential location in which to start an accounting career. The latter half of the cases involve an in-depth study of ExxonMobil as a company and the accounting risks associated with it.

Financial Accounting Case Studies, Turner Willson

Honors Theses

This thesis is a compilation of eleven accounting case studies which covers a wide variety of topics that were discussed throughout the ACCY 420 course taught by Dr. Victoria Dickinson during the 2021-2022 academic school year. The cases vary in subject which started with the reflection of the 9/11 terrorist attacks had on the country and ended with choosing Tyson Inc. as an audit client. Some of the other cases included becoming excel certified, interviewing someone in the field that we wished to join upon graduation, and researching a future city in which we would like to live in the …

An Examination Of Accounting Through Case Studies, Jacob Maschhoff

Honors Theses

This thesis consists of ten case studies that are focused on the principles and standards of financial accounting. The case studies were assigned by Dr. Victoria Dickinson and completed under her guidance throughout the course of Honors Accountancy 420. During the first semester of the class, Dr. Dickinson provided five unique prompts that explored current events and relevant topics within the professional world of accounting. We were able to sharpen our accounting and research skills as well as gain knowledge about potential career paths and opportunities within accounting. Throughout the second semester, we completed five more case studies pertaining to …

The Value Of An Integrated Marketing Campaign To Grow Interest In Visiting The U.S. National Parks, Hermine Granberry

Honors Theses

When the centennial celebration of the National Park Service was approaching in 2016, the National Park Service launched a two-year campaign to only commemorate the last century of NPS, but to also reconnect Americans with the parks. Ten years have passed since the initial creation of the campaign. This thesis researches the value of how another integrated marketing campaign could increase visitation to the U.S. National Parks in the future.

Through evaluating the previous Find Your Park campaign and current trends in travel and vacation, this research investigates not only future campaign ideas but also the use and incorporation of …

Accountancy 420 Case Study Analysis, Olivia Peterson

Honors Theses

During my junior year at the University of Mississippi, I took part in an accountancy practicum course, titled Accountancy 420. I was able to work on ten cases involving a multitude of accounting topics. During the first semester, I analyzed a 9/11 documentary, conducted research around potential cities for accounting internships, became Excel certified, investigated the financial impact of COVID-19 vaccines, and completed an interview with a business professional. These projects make up the first five cases of my thesis. We additionally were able to learn from speakers at many impressive firms about different topics surrounding the accounting industry. In …

Accounting Analysis, Henrietta Long

Honors Theses

In my practicum class during my junior year at the University of Mississippi, I was able to work on ten cases discussing many different accounting topics. During the first semester of the course, the class conducted research on different cities around the US for accounting internships, we became excel certified, and we completed an interview with a professional that had experience in the business world. We also had the privilege of having highly acclaimed accounting firms come to the class and present on a variety of different accounting matters. Additionally, we watched a documentary about September 11th, 2001 and completed …

How Awareness Levels Of Environmental And Ethical Risks Affect Consumer's Perceptions Of Fast Fashion, Antonina Stragapede

Honors Theses

The fast fashion industry is known for its low prices, quick inventory, and its ability to keep up with runway styles. Yet, the amount of risk that comes along with their processes has been kept hidden. The lenient policies in international countries have given the fast fashion industry leverage to create tons of dangerous carbon emissions, as well as keep labor at an inhumane level. The point of our study was to try to create awareness of both ethical and environmental risks through a randomly distributed intervention. Participants were also encouraged to take part in our longitudinal study to determine …

Access Granted: A Demographic Analysis Of How The Pandemic Has Disrupted The Monocentric City, Jaylin Terreau Jones

Honors Theses

Abstract

This study shows the disruption that the Covid pandemic has had on the national relationship between changes in quarterly House Price Index (HPI) values and distance from Metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs). This disruption is statistically modeled through linear regressions where quarterly changes in HPI values are set equal to distance as well as factors such as change in population, housing units, and home ownership. Special recognition is also given to the distance relationship during years affected by Covid. This disruption is then analyzed in relation to demographic factors such as age and race. The study showed that the disruption …

A Collection Of Financial Accounting Case Studies, Madison J. Demus

Honors Theses

The following thesis presents a comprehensive examination of various accounting topics through compilation of case studies. These studies delve into a range of subjects, including an interview with a successful business professional and identifying financial and accounting solutions for Apple, Inc., among others. Dr. Victoria Dickinson supervised and instructed the completion of these studies as part of the curriculum for the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College and Patterson School of Accountancy. Throughout this research, I have been able to explore several areas of interest in accounting, such as the role of financial accounting in decision-making and the implications of tax …