New Jersey City University will host their first Frank J. Guarini Institute for International Education and Economic Mobility panel in September, focusing on the role of universities after COVID-19.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
The key note will be delivered by Raj Chetty, William A. Ackman School of Economics Professor at Harvard University.
Other speakers include Brian Bridges, Secretary of Higher Education for the state of New Jersey, Allan E. Goodman, President of the Institute of International Education, and Irene Trowell-Harris, Air Force Veteran and member of the Board of Trustees of NJCU.
“This signature event will convene a diverse group of senior leaders to discuss the role of universities to foster economic mobility in a post-Covid-19 world,” NJCU President Sue Henderson.
“The forum will celebrate the vision of Frank Guarini to establish the Institute and invite senior executives from the nonprofit, private and public sectors to partner with NJCU to advance the Institute’s mission.”
“This event will highlight the opportunities that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought to universities to reimagine their partnerships with their communities and leverage their role as anchor institutions to foster equitable economic development,” Executive Director Dr. Adrian Franco of the Frank J. Guarini Institute for International Education and Economic Mobility.
The Guarini Institute at NJCU was made possible by a $5 million gift from long time donor, Congressman Frank J. Guarini, in May 2020, around the same time that he donated $10 million for a performing arts center and institute for international studies.
“Education is the most important word in our language, in any language. It’s how we create leaders, grow our economy, and learn about other people, which nurtures peace. Education is the key to a better world,” added Guarini.
Designed for the 21st century, the Frank J. Guarini Institute for International Education and Economic Mobility has the mission of increasing the economic mobility of college students by sponsoring initiatives that champion international education and economic & community development programs.
Before being appointed to lead the Guarini Institute, Franco was an officer and director at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York where he supervised a portfolio of education and community development initiatives. Prior to that role, he was the inaugural executive director of Qualitas of Life Foundation and held senior roles in the public sector in Mexico.
He also holds a Master of International Affairs and a Ph.D. in International Education from Columbia University.
