Visiting Executive Seminar studies ‘The New Normal’

HUNTINGTON, Ind.- Huntington University's Visiting Executive Seminar will examine "The New Normal" in American economic life. The seminar will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon March 25 in the Habecker Dining Commons.

The seminar, led by Jim O'Donnell, the Luke J. Peters Professor of Business and Executive-In-Residence, and Troy Irick, vice president of advancement, brings together business leaders and Huntington University business students to discuss important issues in today's business world.

At this seminar, attendees will review two readings: Der Spiegel, a German periodical examining how others see the supposed decline of the United States, and "The New Normal," a recent piece from The Wall Street Journal.

"We are passing through the worse economic retrenchment since the Great Depression. In fact, we call what is taking place, not without reason, 'The Great Recession.' Jobs are scarce; half of the 14 million people still unemployed have been out of work for at least a half year; people are losing their homes; entire nations and states are on the verge of bankruptcy; and families are struggling with bills, struggling to send kids to college," O'Donnell said.

During the seminar, O'Donnell and Irick will examine, "Is the economy really in tough shape or have we just hit the limits of our dreams?"

Attendees are invited to stay for a fellowship time over lunch following the program. Attendance is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. RSVP to Barb Baker at (260) 359-4069 or bbaker@huntington.edu by March 16.