Welcome to the 2022 Thought Leader Summit Experience

Innovation, Change, and Success in Thriving Turbulent Environments

The 2022 Forbes Business School and Technology Thought Leader Summit main topic is “Innovation, change, and success in thriving and turbulent environments.” The Summit will bring together prominent business and thought leaders from a variety of industries and business sectors, including marketing, healthcare, energy, technology, human resources, insurance, education and media. Highlights include a keynote address from Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media, a guest speaker on the topic of negotiations, and eight panel sessions with over 25 industry and business experts.

Steve Forbes

Keynote: 5 Year Economic Forecast

Steve Forbes 2022 Thought Leader Summit Keynote does not disappoint. Mr. Forbes provides his perspective on the current national and international economic landscape. He shares his views on whether leaders are born leaders or can be developed into leaders. He also defines exactly what it means to be a successful leader. Mr. Forbes reflects on current economic and political issues and offers historical parallels. Lastly, he ties all his analyses together with his economic forecast.  

In accordance with APA manual:

Forbes, S. (2022, October 17). Keynote- Steve Forbes - 5 year Economic forecast with Q&A. (Keynote Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • What do you think of the digital era of illustration? 


    This question came up during the keynote with Steve Forbes and he was unable to address all questions so I will do my best to provide my thoughts on the digital era of illustration because as we all know, a picture is worth a thousand words, and I’m sure we’ve all heard that before!
    In the digital era that has evolved from the creation and expansion of the Internet, illustration is key in many aspects to tell a story, grab your attention, market to you, and even help you learn. As a professor, it’s important to understand students learn differently and sometimes having illustrations can help explain and reinforce the concepts, especially for K-12. And, illustrations can be anything from drawings on a piece of paper to the more complex explainer videos and talking heads that we see in some fields. It has also  changed the way we look at the world because children who grew up with the Internet have an entirely new network that has impacted how we communicate – just think about it… on your smart phone how many times do you send an emoji or Gif? Look how popular Snapchat is – which is certainly a prime example of digital illustration.  Digital illustrations are all around us and it’s changing how we view and interact as the generations change, and I look forward to what is next!- (Answer provided by Dr. Patricia Ryan, UAGC Lead Faculty)
     

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Strategic Management

Flattening the Organization to Encourage Cooperation and Relationships​

Speaker: Dr. Diane Hamilton, Susan Sly, Dr. Sarah Steinberg, Samantha Ettus, Dr. Laura Palmer-Noone

Description: 

This panel discussion sheds light on the concept of flattening the organization to encourage cooperation and relationships both internally and externally. Expertly led by moderator, Dr. Katie Thiry, the panel explores strategies to strengthen company performance and operation through authentic relationship-building at every level. Dr. Diane Hamilton, creator of the curiosity code index, shares advice on keeping employees, clients, and associates engaged by promoting and embracing curiosity in the workplace. Business executive, Samantha Ettus, speaks to the importance of success and satisfaction as individuals and how organizations can better support their employees. Dr. Sarah Steinberg brings decades of senior leadership to the panel as she offers her insights on building an open, welcoming, and functional organizational structure. Tech mogul, Susan Sly, excites and engages the audience with her innovative ideas for building cooperative environments in start-up organizations all the way to Fortune 500 companies. Dr. Laura Palmer Noone provides leaders with sound and tangible recommendations to enhance the internal and external relationships in their organization.

  • Building flatter organizational structures and making decisions on the “edge”​  
  • Building a strong supply chain through the lens of sustainability​  
  • Embracing cooperation over competition 
  • Automation of tasks to promote relationship-building 

In accordance with APA manual:

Hamilton, D., Ettus, S., Steinberg, S., Sly, S., Palmer-Noon, L., & Thiry, K. (2022, October 17). Strategic management: Flattening the organization to encourage cooperation and relationships. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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Financial Planning, & Analysis

Information Overload Only Affects the Weak and Unprepared

Speaker: Marin Njavro, Carl Schramm, John Tamny, Rich Karlgaard

Description: 

This panel discussion provides excellent insights on how companies can adjust their current financial processes and better adopt Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) techniques. Hear Carl Schram as he provides an interesting financial history lesson. Make sure to listen to Rich Karlgaard’ s, John Tamny’s and Marin Njavro’s comments on the true value of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) metrics. There is also a great discussion on decentralized financing options including the use of financial technology based on distributed ledgers and venture capital. Lastly, the panel reflects on the ability of companies to hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations.    

  • Influence of decentralized financing on company mission and operations
  • Using blockchain technologies to support internal finance functions
  • Embracing big data to optimize financial performance
  • Increasing emphasis on ESG metrics; how will they coexist with traditional financial metrics?
  • How can higher education prepare tomorrow's workforce to embrace new FPA techniques and metrics?

In accordance with APA manual:

Njavro, M., Tamny, J., Cardenas, J., Schramm, C., & Karlgaard, R. (2022, October 17). Financial, planning, & analysis: information overload only affects the weak and unprepared. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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Future of the Workforce

Changing Perceptions of Employment and Human Resources​

Speaker: Dr. Iris Lafferty, Jayne Johnson, Dr. Tamar Elkeles, Monique Cook

Description: 

The “Future of the Workforce” panel touches on a number of topics related to how companies are adapting to changes in the workplace by looking at five specific future trends in Human Resources (HR). Monique Cook, Dr. Tamar Elkeles, Dr. Iris Lafferty discuss the importance of “flexible work” to attract talent and keep employees satisfied. Organizational flexibility was also discussed and the value of “people analytics” to drive business. The ability of HR to automate their operations was highlighted. The panelists also delved into whether Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is just a trend or is here to stay. Make sure you watch this excellent panel discussion that also addressed rethinking employee rewards and recognitions, organizational skill sets (inventory of skills), and processes and systems that support employees despite their location and modality.

  • Companies and workers opting for freelancing in lieu of full-time employment
  • Changing function of human resources including an emphasis on the dynamics of wellness 
  • Flexibility, work-life balance, and a shorter workweek
  • New focus on “fairness” in the workplace
  • Hybrid work environments may pose a threat to DEI progress
  • Innovative forces within cyclical education to support a multi-generational workforce

In accordance with APA manual:

Cook, M., Elkeles, T., & Lafferty, I. (2022, October 17). Future of the workforce: Changing perceptions of employment and human resources. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • How Do Inclusion and Diversity Initiatives Impact the Role of Today's HR Professional? 
    Diversity and Inclusion initiatives increase the responsibilities of Human Resource professionals.  They are not only responsible for the federal regulations regarding diversity and inclusion but also for local mandates.  They must ensure policies and procedures are being developed to reflect these regulations and initiatives and implement them.  Human Resources professionals must focus on recruiting, training and accurate recording keeping in support of these initiatives.- (Answer provided by Dr. Sheila Schmitz, UAGC Core Online Faculty)


    Should remote work become the new norm?
    Based upon trends and current research showing the effectiveness of remote work and hybrid work environments, it seems that the traditional schedule and work environment may never fully return. The costs associated with the office environment are high and this leads to a compelling argument for workers being in a remote environment where studies have found they are more satisfied, more productive, and more engaged. (Answer provided by Debra Culler, UAGC Core Online Faculty) 
    Reference
    Mulcahy, D. (2020, Marsch 30th). Remote Work is the New Norm. Will It Last?. Forbes.  https://www.forbes.com/sites/dianemulcahy/2020/03/30/remote-work-is-the-new-norm-will-it-last/?sh=7295689d3dd7

     

    How a hybrid workplace with human and robots would be following professional code of conduct?  
    There are tasks and daily responsibilities that can be seen as monotonous, and research shows monotony can lead to a decrease in engagement. So a hybrid workplace with humans and robots could be advantageous if the duties that are removed allow for an increase in employee engagement, employee passion for the tasks at hand, and give the employees a chance to seek out what drives them. Recognition and opportunities for employees would be a key factor for management and human resources to provide to ensure there is a professional code of conduct being followed and high levels of morale in a workplace culture. (Answer provided by Debra Culler, UAGC Core Online Faculty)  
    Reference
    Mulcahy, D. (2020, Marsch 30th). Remote Work is the New Norm. Will It Last?. Forbes.  https://www.forbes.com/sites/dianemulcahy/2020/03/30/remote-work-is-the-new-norm-will-it-last/?sh=7295689d3dd7
     

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Keld Jensen

Guest Speaker

Description:

International strategist and guest speaker, Keld Jensen, shares tips and tricks to improve your negotiating skills. He uses an innovative approach to negotiations by focusing on success for all parties involved with success defined differently for everyone. Mr. Jensen suggests that the average person is part of 8,000 to 10,000 negotiations each year! While it may initially seem impossible, he proposes that negotiations occur not only at work between managers, coworkers, and clients but also in our everyday personal lives as we negotiate with our partners, children, and service providers. Mr. Jensen recommends negotiating through the lens of the golden rule and teaches the audience to effectively identify your “real room for negotiation.” 

In accordance with APA manual:

Jensen, K. (2022, October 17). Learning to negotiate over lunch. (Conference Session) Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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Geopolitical Factors

Is Your Organization Prepared to Weather the Geopolitical Storm?

Speaker: Dr. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, Larry Robertson, Mark Mills, Steve Kerr, Dr. Steve Kerr, Dr. Cidhinnia Torres Campos

Description: 

This “Geopolitical Factors” panel discussion covered a wide array of variables impacting the world of business. The conversation started with the opening reflection on the increased inflation rate. The discussion emphasized the appropriate roles leaders have in not only battling inflation, but, working towards a sustainable business model. The panelists also provided their prediction on the inflation rate progression. Thoughts were shared on the impact of domestic and global politics in the workplace, focusing on the proper path of handling political discourse without damaging the organization as a whole. An unavoidable topic of COVID, its impact, and the post-pandemic aftermath not only at the organizational level but also in the lives of employees were addressed by each panelist. Several panelists reflected on the impact of the war in Ukraine on the global energy crisis and other areas. Lastly, the panel discussion ended with a reflection of how agricultural challenges impact the whole world, clean water shortage, in particular, being emphasized by several panelists. 

  • Learning from COVID to better position businesses to endure the next health crisis
  • Inflation, the role of central banks, and the ramifications for ordinary citizens
  • Increasing political polarity in the U.S. and internationally (including the war on Ukraine)
  • Is autonomy a good thing? The pros and cons of micro-economies creating new currencies
  • Failure to act on climate initiatives and other global environmental concerns 

In accordance with APA manual:

Garcia-Wilburn, V., Mills, M., Torres-Campos, C., Robertson, L., Kerr, S., & Zelihic, M. (2022, October 17). Geopolitical factors: Is your organization prepared to weather the geopolitical storm? (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • Is Your Organization Prepared to Weather the Geopolitical Storm? 
    As a leadership educator, I would love to be able to educate my students on this topic so they know to stay current on these issues as they move into the workforce. Is there any resources or tools you recommend for me to learn more and be able to guide them properly? 
    While this may sound like a cliché, the best place for current geopolitical issues would be credible journalistic sources, either through news outlets, websites, and even Google searches. As we know, political issues between countries can cause tension and unrest, just look at Ukraine and Russia! Consequently, the geopolitical tension between both countries has threatened the stability of companies around the world who may have a stake in either country. Trade has been impacted along with the financial markets. This is also impacting other nations as it relates to their affairs between nations. 
    Political upheaval impacts all nations in one way or another and the key is to understand what the politics are, who is involved and how it impacts nations, and the best way to do that is to stay current on events that happen in the world arena. (Answer provided by Dr. Patricia Ryan, UAGC Lead Faculty)


    How much of an issue will the shortage of clean water create in the agricultural sector? What can be done to prevent clean water shortage crisis?

    ANSWER PENDING


    Why do you think leaders are hesitant to talk to employees?

    ANSWER PENDING
     

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Artificial Intelligence

They Are Getting Smarter; We Better Keep Up

Speaker: Dr. Cindy Gordon, Dr. Olin Oedekoven, Dr. Sara Diamond, Dr. Tom Bourgeois

Description: 

This collective panel construes, Artificial Intelligence is already integrated into our daily lives and impacting change across industries including healthcare, robotics, marketing, business analytics, and more. We are at a unique crossroads in human history at a time when the ongoing digital revolution is taking us into a data-driven world where Machine Learning techniques will continue to gain momentum as data continues to grow at a rapid pace. Panelist Dr Cindy Gordon unquestioningly forecasts that, “AI is going under every single industry. Every single business process as the integration continues.” Additionally, panel notions interpret we are entering into a world of inter-connected devices where AI will play a key role in machine to machine and machine to human communications.  We should expect robotics and automation to play a significant part in our daily lives in the period beyond 2025. In particular the field of robotics and AI will be heavily interlinked with intelligent robots using Deep Learning and in particular GANs and Deep Reinforcement Learning on the edge all around us. In order to maximize on the potential economic benefits and to bring positive developments for society we need to ensure that an education and training revolution is put into place and that our politicians hopefully start to understand the potential of AI technology along with the changes needed across the landscape (infrastructure and skills) to leverage the technology.

  • Balancing the need for human intelligence with the efficiency of artificial intelligence
  • Moving beyond robotic process automation to focus on intelligent automation
  • Embracing automation and AI at the executive and mid-management levels
  • Preparing the workforce to build, support, and leverage AI through higher education

In accordance with APA manual:  

Gordon, C., Bourgeois, T., Ivy, K., & Diamond, S. (2022, October 17). Artificial intelligence: They are getting smarter; We better keep up. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • A concern I hear about AI is that it takes away jobs. How can that fear be addressed? 
    It is common to think that AI will take jobs. During the Industrial Revolution, workers believed that machines would replace them. To some degree, they were accurate. Some jobs got replaced, and many shifted. When the jobs moved, a need for technicians, mechanics, consultants, and the like was required. People and businesses adjusted to accommodate the change. The same type of response is needed with Artificial Intelligence. Jobs may shift, and we will require people to move to be technicians, programmers, troubleshooters, and even thought leaders.- (Answer provided by Dr. James Moore, UAGC Lead Faculty)
     

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Evolving Technology

Metaverse is the New Universe

Speaker: Andrea Sasum, Jessica Benson, Walter Greenleaf, Bob Fine, Bill Myers

Description: 

Here is the correct one: With acuity, this professional VR panel presents and advises that the Metaverse/ VR is resoundingly here to stay. Panelists challenge that all must immerse themselves and experience virtual reality. The value of this experience is more appreciated as you view these experts and professionals describing the ecosystems, research, and impacts in the VR landscape. Everything from games to acute advanced healthcare is agreeably impacted by the applications and emerging utilization of VR technology. Insightful panelist Jessica Benson reasons that recent experiences and isolation, in the Covid pandemic times, have sparked and upscaled the opportunities and needs for immersive experiences and expedited industry interests and growth. Almost every industry has some interest in the Metaverse. We have only seen the beginning of what is possible with the Metaverse.

  • Opportunities in the metaverse ecosystem​  
  • Using virtual reality for key business functions including onboarding and providing services​  
  • Recognizing the risks of virtual reality technology  

In accordance with APA manual:  

Sasum, A., Fine R., Greenleaf, W., Benson, J., Meyers, B. & Sims, L. (2022, October 17). Evolving technology: Metaverse is the new universe. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • How would the interface between different "metaverse" world impact the business competitions?
    The interface should have a huge impact! As the interface effectively represents how users interact with and experience a virtual or simulated environment, different users may be drawn to different interface approaches. Additionally, the interface could potentially affect the mood, thoughts, or behavior of the user, thus creating a greater trickle-down effect in the economy. As work and social trends make the metaverse increasingly viable, we should expect to see businesses research and invest heavily in the interface.- (Answer provided by Brandy Havens, UAGC Core Online Faculty)  
     

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Corporate Culture

Promoting Authenticity and a Meaningful Purpose

Speaker: Tissa Richards, Vernice Armour, Megan Taylor Morrison, Dr. Margie Warrell, Dr. Michal Strahilevitz

Description: 

This panel discussion offers unique insights and recommendations to promote authentic leadership and a purposeful work environment. Tissa Richards speaks to the importance of being proactive in getting to know employees and learning their strengths and preferences. Megan Taylor Morrison defines authenticity from various perspectives and offers insights into marketing and selling with a focus on the organization’s mission and vision. Dr. Margie Warrell acknowledges the need of employees to feel meaning and purpose in their work and suggests that managers can leverage this to enhance employee engagement. Dr. Michal Strahilevitz offers strategies to increase both employee and customer loyalty by remaining purpose-centric and promoting a safe environment for all. Vernice “Flygirl” Armour encourages leaders to use their “star power” to keep employees engaged, connected, and motivated.

  • Consumers and employees are looking for a culture of authenticity, honesty, and compassion
  • Organizations of the future will be expected to serve a meaningful purpose outside of profits
  • Defining the role of the Chief Purpose Officer (CPO)

In accordance with APA manual:

Richards, R., Morrison, M. T., Strahilevitz, M., Armour, V., Warrell, M. & Havens, B. (2022, October 17). (2022, October 17). Corporate culture: Promoting authenticity and a meaningful purpose. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • What are the new cultural challenges in hybrid and virtual working environment, and how do we meet these? 
    In some countries, cultural issues such as gender-based leadership make it difficult for teams to operate across boundaries. Though not as prevalent in the United States and other countries, the issue does exist.
    It is exceptionally easy to have faux pas in the hybrid and online environment, which is generally due to a lack of cultural training.  
    We have to be mindful when building organizations and teams. A good start is implementing cultural training with a trainer with experience in both cultures integrated. Some organizations offer cultural training, but it gets delivered by someone with no training in the second culture. We must learn to deploy the proper trainers and mitigate this strategy.- (Answer provided by Dr. James Moore, UAGC Lead Faculty)
     

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Marketing

How to Market When You Are the Product

Speaker: Dr. Judith Briles, Bruce Rogers, Pat Hafford, Jim Pisani, Camilita Nuttall

Description: 

This panel addresses the topic of “How to Market When You Are the Product”. Camilita Nuttall’s provides some excellent ideas on building your individual brand and how to leverage social media platforms including affiliated marketing networks. She also highlights the importance of staying true to your values but also leveraging new marketing approaches. Dr. Judith Briles talks at length about her branding approach which combines traditional marketing strategies with newer website, online advertising and social media techniques. Jim Pisani, gives great examples of how marketing does not have to be expensive if companies formulate an integrated marketing strategy and focus on target marketing. Dr. Pat Hafford addresses the importance of planning prior to implementing a marketing strategy and learning from your competitors.    

  • Using influencer marketing platforms to easily access micro and nano social media influencers 
  • Consolidated marketing efforts through affiliate marketing networks
  • How a consumer focus on conscious consumption may affect marketing and branding 

In accordance with APA manual:  

Briles, J., Hafford, P., Pisani, J., Nuttal, C., & Farrell, T. (2022, October 17). Marketing: How to market when you are the product. (Panel Presentation). Forbes School of Business and Technology at University of Arizona Global Campus, Thought Leader Summit, Chandler, Arizona, United States, https://www.uagc.edu/forbes-school-of-business-and-technology/thought-leader-summit/tls-day

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  • What impact has influencers in the buying decision process?
    Influencers on social media have fundamentally changed marketing strategies from the ways of celebrity endorsements and spokespeople to consumer-generated digital content with an immediate and far reach. Many people may find an influencer more relatable and relevant than an actor or celebrity. Consumers need to remember that not everything by influencers is real…but on the other hand, influencers can be called out on social media where sponsored commercials are one way communication and not a two-way communication.- (Answer provided by Dr. Gail Hoskyns-Long, UAGC Lead Faculty)
     

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