65th Annual Indiana University Business Conference

The recent Indiana University Business Conference produced some lively debate about the role of government in business, with recent bailouts and incentive programs headlining the list of topics.

This year's program had a distinct flair as well, with nearly 200 students from Indianapolis and Bloomington in the audience. Presenters were delighted to see the student groups, although they continually heard of the long climb still ahead for the country to return from the recession.

Keynote speaker Diane Swonk, the chief economist for Mesirow Financial and a frequent economic commentator on television, told the crowd the rough economy was not going to get any easier for the majority of Americans in the short term.

She indicated the recession has left American incomes at their most lopsided in history, with the middle class hit the hardest. The country's massive debt load will require a tax increase to recover, ultimately lengthening the recession, she said.

Swonk indicated things could have been a lot worse without the stimulus spending and described the country's problems as (quote) substantial but not insurmountable (end quote).

Speakers like Derica Rice—a Kelley graduate and a CFO for Eli Lilly and Company—called for a fair and rigorous system of government regulation, where innovation is supported and tax policies are consistent.

The day ended with an exclusive reception for Kelley students and alumni. This was an opportunity for students to network with business representatives and Kelley supporters, including some who may play a key role in the recovery of Hoosier businesses in the years to come.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Kelley School of Business
• IUPUI
• Indianapolis
• IU
• Diane Swonk
• business conference