Hear the forecast on how Georgia’s and the Augusta area’s economies will perform. Economic predictions will cover employment, income, population, and real estate. The analysis also will focus on the prospects for specific economic sectors such as retailing and hospitality.

Speakers:

Robert T. Sumichrast became dean of the Terry College of Business in July 2007 and holds the Simon S. Selig, Jr. Chair for Economic Growth. From 2003-07, he was dean of the E. J. Ourso College of Business at Louisiana State University. Sumichrast has served on the editorial boards and as a reviewer for numerous academic and industry publications. He has authored a textbook and dozens of articles about improving operations and the practice of business. In 2011, he was elected by the membership of AACSB International to the organization’s board of directors. The AACSB governs and accredits collegiate business schools worldwide. He serves as vice chair of the AACSB Initial Accreditation Committee and as a member of the AACSB Accreditation Coordination Committee.

Mark Vitner is a managing director and senior economist at Wells Fargo, responsible for tracking U.S. and regional economic trends. Based in Charlotte, N.C., he also writes for the company's Monthly Economic Outlook report, the Weekly Economic and Financial Commentary, and provides regular updates on the housing markets, commercial real estate, regional economies and inflation.