ASU dean addresses hot topics at the Economist summit

Jonathan Koppell, dean of ASU's College of Public Service and Community Solutions, traveled to Mexico City in September to participate in the Economist's Mexico Summit 2017. Topics like energy, infrastructure and communications were covered under the theme of "Thriving through Disruption," as participants explored how an increasingly digital Mexico provides new opportunities and challenges for business and government. 

Koppell was part of a panel on innovation and education titled "the Global Talent Race," alongside Monica Flores, President, Latin America, Manpower Group; Bismarck Lepe, founder and CEO of Wizeline; and Norma Saenz, Human Resources Director, Mexico, GE. Together, they touched on how Mexico's workforce suffers from sizeable skills shortages, while inequality and inflation continue to plague its economy. Other topics included how fostering greater access to online educational resources and financial services can effectively address these shortcomings and how traditional Mexican companies can remain competitive without losing their best talent. 

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent announcement to end DACA, Koppell discussed the negative impact this action would have on the U.S. and stated that the nation's best interest is served by creating a supportive environment for Dreamers and providing them with educational opportunities that will lead to their increased capacity to contribute to their communities and the world beyond.

He also spoke of ASU's strong ongoing support for Dreamers as students and valuable members of society and noted that universities bear responsibility for helping develop solutions and responses to sociopolitical challenges while providing a safe and accessible environment for all students.