With both the markets and the presidential campaign heating up, the economy will be the number one item of discussion over the next several months.
In this issue of The State of Business, we speak with recognized authorities to assess the real strength of the economy and what is expected for the remainder of 2004. We start with our own award-winning economist, Rajeev Dhawan, who, instead of writing his usual column, is the subject of an interview covering a variety of issues, including job creation, the federal budget, trade deficits and the Bush tax cut.
We also take an in-depth look at some of the business sectors that are most likely to have a major impact on the future of the economy. Board of Advisors member Sandra Bergeron, executive vice president of corporate development and strategic research for Network Associates, Inc. in California, and Jere Drummond, retired vice chairman of BellSouth Corporation, are among those commenting on the high-tech sector. Richard Bowers of Richard J. Bowers Inc., an alumnus and member of Robinson's Board, and Real Estate Chair ]oe Rabianski address the status and viability of the real estate sector in Atlanta and across the nation.
Robinson' health care experts - faculty members John Newman, Bill Custer and Tad Ransopher - comment on various aspects of that critical area.
We examine Atlanta as an example of a major urban area that was hit hard by the downturn but is beginning to come back. We speak with, among others, Spurgeon Richardson, president and CEO of the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau, and our own marketing expert, Ken Bernhardt.
Finally, we look internationally and speak with Peter White, head of the Southern Center for International Studies in Atlanta, who provides a candid and unique look at the global marketplace. In that same article, we hear the perspectives of Robinson alums who work for global companies in farflung locations such as London and Istanbul.
We hope this issue serves as a primer for what's ahead with the economy in 2004. Your continued support of the Robinson College is always gratifying. For the latest news from Robinson, check our web site at www.robinson.gsu.edu. Also, link to Robinson Reel News for special video interviews with faculty, alums and key business leaders.
Sidney E. Harris
Dean
Sidney E. Harris
Dean
Robinson College of Business
