Why Maryland's $1M MBA Fund Passed on Starwood

Maryland is well known for crab cakes, but investing should be added to their repertoire. Meet the University of Maryland's MBA-run Mayer Fund.

Here's a look at how a small group of graduate students mange a $1.2 million portfolio and their take on a recent pitch to invest in Starwood Hotels & Resorts (HOT Quote).

Mayer Fund Quick Facts:

Established: 1993
Membership: 10 (2 portfolio managers, 8 sector analysts )
Application process: Selective
Money under management: $1.2 million (part of the business school's endowment)
Benchmark: S&P 500
Time-horizon/style: Long-term, growth ...