The Global School Virtual Event Series: EUROPE

Welcome Remarks

Wole Soboyejo

Keynote Presentation 

The Crisis of America Power: How Europe Views the Biden Administration

Most Europeans rejoiced at Joe Biden’s victory in the November US presidential election, but they do not think he can help America make a comeback as the pre-eminent global leader.  Drawing on an Opinion poll in 11 European countries, Mark Leonard will explore how the public’s opinion on the USA has changed over the last few years.  It will explore how a double crisis democracy and power have shaped perceptions of the USA.  The polling shows that Europeans’ attitudes towards the United States have undergone a massive change.  There is a great chance for a revival of Atlanticism, but Washington cannot take European alignment against China for granted. Public opinion will have a bigger effect on the relationship than it once did, and needs to be taken into account.

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Outlook for European Business and the Global Economy Post-Pandemic

This session will focus on the outlook for European business and the economy over the next few years.  The coronavirus pandemic is the most recent in a series of crises that have roiled European societies and economies over the last decade. WPI alums will share their perspective on the outlook for their industry, business, and/or the European or global economy. 

Moderated by: Peter Hansen, WPI

Panelists: Belin Beyoglu ‘09, CEEMEA Structurer, BNP Paribas; Sergio Levi ’88, Vice President, Head of Strategic Alliances, Philips Healthcare; and Menelaos Tassopoulos ‘85, CEO, PAPOUTSANIS S.A. 

Circular Economy: The Future of the Earth

Moderated by: Jean King, WPI

Panelists: Adrian Burri, ZHAW, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Laureen Elgert, WPI, Elke Rundensteiner, WPI, Joe Sarkis, WPI, Mike Timko, WPI

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