Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, Professor Margaret Abernethy says the launch is one of the first steps toward a new strategic direction for the faculty.

“We want to create a world class business school offering undergraduate, graduate and executive education, renowned for its excellence in teaching, academic research and knowledge transfer.

“The new direction will help ensure the faculty is recognised as a national and regional leader in business and economics education.

“Our intention is to engage business, government and the wider community with our newly formed Business and Economics Board and the Foundation for Business and Economics, to further strengthen our domestic and international links.”

Today’s announcements also include:
-    The creation of the James Riady Chair for Asian Economics and Business.  Alumnus Dr James Riady has donated $1.5m to the faculty to support research into Asian economics and business
-    An outline of further investment into Executive Education as part of a new commitment to life-long learning; and
-    The generous contribution of $1m from an anonymous donor which has created the prestigious Commerce Opportunity Bursary to be awarded to two undergraduate Bachelor of Commerce students each year who have experienced disadvantage during their schooling.

It also marks the official opening of the Faculty’s new building at 198 Berkeley Street, the only 5 star green building in any Australian university and a recipient of an Australian Excellence award by the Australian Green Building Council.

“These announcements are about meeting the needs of those just graduating from high school right through to senior executives wanting to update their skills, engage in leadership forums, or even change careers,” Professor Abernethy says. 

Media are welcome to attend the launch:
What: Celebration of Business and Economics @ Melbourne
Where: 198 Berkeley Street, Carlton (cnr. Berkeley and Pelham Streets)
When: 5.30pm, Monday 22 February, 2010