Chico State Students Shock the Nation: How They Dominated the Leadership Challenge Against 50+ Rivals!

In an impressive demonstration of expertise and innovation, the Health Administration Case Study Team from California State University, Chico, recently secured first place at the California Association of Healthcare Leaders competition. The team, composed of undergraduate students from the University’s Health Services Administration program, was awarded $750 for their meticulous work in crafting a 15-minute presentation and a 500-word executive summary that addressed a pressing health care leadership challenge.

Their project focused on developing a solution for UC Davis Children’s Hospital in response to changes introduced by H.R. 1, often dubbed the "Big Beautiful Bill," which was signed into law earlier this year. Among the bill's provisions are new cost-sharing requirements and adjustments that affect reimbursements for health providers while reducing coverage for recipients, as analyzed by the California Budget & Policy Center.

“Our team competed against six other undergraduate teams and represented our program and University impeccably,” said Lauren Murphy, a faculty member in the Public Health and Health Administration Department. “There were many compliments on their professionalism and presentation skills.”

The judging panel was comprised of distinguished health care executives, including the chief strategy officer for UC Davis Health, lending significant weight to the victory of Chico State’s team.

Chico State’s Growing Reputation in Health Education

Chico State is gaining recognition not only for its academic prowess but also for its commitment to preparing students for successful careers in health care. According to the recent rankings by EduMed, the university placed third in California for the Top Online Healthcare Administration Degrees, eighth for the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing Degrees, and ninth in the Top Online Health Science Programs in California. These rankings are based on a combination of affordability, academic quality, flexibility, and student support services—essential elements that contribute to student success both during their academic journey and after graduation.

Additionally, Chico State has been acknowledged by the Institute of International Education, ranking sixth nationally for Long-Term Study Abroad among master’s-granting institutions in its 2025 Open Door report. This recognition highlights the university's dedication to global education and engagement, which is facilitated by its Office of International Education and Global Engagement.

The office supports a variety of programs that enable students to study abroad and fosters an inclusive environment for international students. Initiatives like the International Wildcat Global Café and Collaborative Online Learning have established platforms for global learning, connecting students and educators across borders through grant-funded projects. These efforts not only enhance the educational experience but also prepare students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Founded in 1887, California State University, Chico is the second-oldest CSU campus and stands as one of the highest-ranked master’s-level public universities in the Western United States. The recent achievements of its students and programs underscore the university's ongoing commitment to excellence in education, particularly in health administration and global studies.

The triumph at the California Association of Healthcare Leaders competition, coupled with the university's accolades in online education and study abroad programs, positions Chico State as a leading institution for aspiring health care professionals and globally-minded students alike. As the health care industry continues to evolve, institutions like Chico State are vital in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.