News

Brigham Young University students demonstrated exceptional creativity and problem-solving skills at the 2025 Homecoming Hackathon, where participants were challenged to design an application that enhances the first-year experience. The competition brought together students, mentors, and alumni in a fast-paced, collaborative environment that celebrated innovation and school spirit.

Taking first place overall, Team Redoers impressed judges with their practical and user-centered approach to helping students navigate the transition to college life. The team included Jisu Song, Taehoon Kim, and Jong Hyuk Lee, with alumni mentor Andrew Hullerstrom. Their project stood out for its thoughtful design and potential to make a meaningful difference for incoming students.

Second place overall went to Team Mnistry, composed of Andrew Darley, Zack Hada, and Thomas Chappell, with alumni mentor Nathaniel Driggs. The team’s project offered a creative use of technology to strengthen student connection and foster community among first-year students.

Third place overall was awarded to Team Chameleons, featuring Bryce Martin, Thomas Peck, and Josh Weidner, with alumni mentor Paul Johnston. Their adaptable and well-executed concept balanced design, function, and innovation.

In the Best Use of Place AI category, first place was awarded to Team Quanti Edge. Team members included Ian Robertson, Prady Bhatia, and James Davies, mentored by Sanjay Bhatia. Their project leveraged Place AI technology to deliver a seamless and data-driven user experience.

Second place in the Best Use of Place AI category went to Team XTND, composed of Logan Bishop, Chase Ashton, and Oscar Escobar. Their strong technical execution and creative approach earned high praise from judges.

Third place in the Best Use of Place AI category was awarded to Team Bobby Tables, consisting of David Sumison, Jason Xing, and Jonathan Ballard, with alumni mentor Nathaniel Driggs. Their inventive and well-structured project earned recognition for its effective integration of AI tools.

In the Most Creative category, first place went to Team Talmage Jr. Team members included Doyoung Yoon, Jiwoong Kang, and Minjoong Kim, mentored by Calahan Larson. Their imaginative and forward-thinking solution captured the judges’ attention for its originality and polish.

Second place in the Most Creative category was awarded to Team BYU-Dubs, composed of Alex Snow, Logan Bishop, and Julius Loyacortes, with alumni mentor Joseph Scholl. The team was praised for their original concept and dynamic presentation.

Finally, Team Amirus earned third place in the Best First-Year Experience category. The team included Lotus Khoteja, Allison Johnson, and Michelle Johnson, mentored by Robert Stevens. Their design was recognized for its meaningful focus on student well-being and engagement.

The event underscored the power of collaboration between students and alumni mentors, highlighting BYU’s commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and community-centered problem solving.