Beyond the ClassroomI approach the end of each academic year with a variety of emotions. It is always uplifting to see another Lehigh University class start on their journey to fulfill their personal and professional goals. Whatever
their paths, I am confident that they are prepared to become the business leaders of the future.
With the challenges inherent in conducting business in a global economy, it is crucial that we provide our students with not only the knowledge necessary for success, but an understanding, sensitivity and respect for the differences encountered in a world without borders.
There are a variety of options for our CBE students to develop a global perspective. This newsletter highlights only a few of the many opportunities available to our students.
An
academic exchange program sponsored by Lehigh's Martindale Center provided MBA students the opportunity to study corporate social responsibility in England during the spring break. The Nottingham MBA Fellows met with political officials and business executives, and with Nottingham students. They studied corporate social responsibility, leadership, and finance and government involvement with business in the United Kingdom.
A panel of international business experts shared their insights and advice with students attending the
Connecting Our Worlds networking gathering on campus. Skill sets necessary for success, the importance of ethics, and the issues involved with working abroad were discussed.
Our students learn by a variety of experiences that conducting business in the 21st Century requires a global mindset and an unwavering focus on ethical decision-making. The College and the Class of 1961 Ethics Series "
Exploring Ethics in Your World" co-sponsored small student seminars with Cynthia Cooper, who uncovered the WorldCom fraud and reported it to the authorities. Ms. Cooper explained the events that occurred and discussed in detail the importance of a steadfast commitment to ethical business practices.
As we welcome our recent graduates to our extraordinary alumni network, I "fast-forward" to their future interactions with our students as they impart their lessons-learned in a global economy. The College is so fortunate to have alumni that take time to share their experiences. Bob Doll '76, chief equity strategist for Fundamental Equities at BlackRock shared his viewpoint with alumni and guests in New York City at
An Economic and Investment Update sponsored by the College of Business and Economics and the
Wall Street Council.
From international experiences, ethical decision-making discussions and alumni interactions, it is the "beyond the classroom experience" that provides our students with the "big picture" and prepares them for future personal and professional success.