Economic summit on Aug. 29 features David Walker, who will focus on ‘inconvenient truth’ of national debt

August 4th, 2008

The former U.S. comptroller general, who for more than a decade has tried to focus the government's attention on the consequences of an out-of-control national deficit, will be the keynote speaker. Bryant faculty will share scenarios for resolving issues that threaten economic security.

SMITHFIELD, R.I. - David M. Walker, the former U.S. comptroller general who for a decade has sounded the alarm regarding the government's huge deficit and the out-of-control debt that burdens Americans, will be the keynote speaker at an economic summit to be held at Bryant University on Friday, Aug. 29.

The summit, titled "Today's World Economy," will also feature presentations by Bryant faculty whose research delves into issues that threaten economic security and possible scenarios for resolving these issues. Topics include the cost of health care, trade deficits, federal and personal debt, unfunded pension liabilities, mortgage issues, educational investment, energy policy, business cycles, and more.

Registration for the summit begins at 7:30 a.m. The program begins at 8.

Walker left his federal government position this past March to become president and CEO of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation. Chief among his duties at the foundation is the funding of and advocating for projects that will enhance public awareness of fiscal imbalance, government deficits, the rapidly growing debt and its consequences for the United States and its citizens.

Walker is a major presence in I.O.U.S.A., a documentary that will be shown in 400 theaters around the country on Aug. 21. The film debuted at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, where it was hailed as the economic equivalent of An Inconvenient Truth, and Walker as the film's Al Gore.The summit's master of ceremonies is Ernest Almonte '78, Rhode Island's auditor general and incoming chairman of the 350,000-member American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

The fee to attend is $95 per person, which includes a continental breakfast, luncheon, and program materials. Tables are available at a reduced rate. To register or obtain information about tables or sponsorship of the event, call the Chafee Center at Bryant University (401) 232-6407.

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For 145 years, Bryant University has developed the knowledge and character of students in order to help them succeed. A unique integration of business, liberal arts, and technology defines the Bryant educational experience. Located in Smithfield, R.I., the university has more than 3,600 full- and part-time undergraduate and graduate students. The university is accredited by NEASC - New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and the College of Business is accredited by AACSB International - The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Bryant's academic reputation is complemented by its business outreach centers that offer services to businesses in this region.

Keywords: business, David Walker, Economy, events, faculty research, IOUSA