May 21, 2024

Haskayne School of Business launches dynamic new forum series to explore critical issues facing business and society

The inaugural Haskayne Business Exchange event series aims to bridge the academia-industry divide by examining the real-world implications of cutting-edge research

Calgary, AB – The Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary proudly announces the launch of a new event series, the Haskayne Business Exchange (HBX). HBX is designed to spotlight the most relevant research in management practices, engaging audiences to inspire real-world applications and contribute to resolving some of society’s most pressing issues. Recognizing the void that exists between the worlds of academia and industry, HBX aims to stimulate stronger collaboration between the two realms to help foster greater collaboration and innovation. The inaugural event will take place in Calgary on June 13, 2024, at the GRAND from 2:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Understanding that one of the barriers to research dissemination is its accessibility and perceived practicality, HBX will address both challenges head-on by having each researcher deliver short, impactful, 15-minute presentations. Following the researchers’ presentations, the event will include an engaging industry panel where business thought leaders will discuss how the research and insights shared can be integrated into mainstream business practices.

“As Calgary’s business school, we recognize our pivotal role in supporting the business community’s growth and innovation. One of the ways we can do this is by bringing academia and industry together through engaged managerial research. The rigorous, evidence-based research conducted at Haskayne and UCalgary can provide sound pathways forward to shift the trajectory of an entire industry. The new Haskayne Business Exchange will harness the power of purposeful partnerships between academia and industry. Together, we can create practical solutions and meaningful change.”

Dean Gina Grandy, Haskayne School of Business

The inaugural event will explore the theme of the new digital era, focusing on topics such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and cryptocurrency, trust and privacy in data management and tradeable efficiency. Featured speakers from UCalgary’s Haskayne School of Business and Schulich School of Engineering, include:

  • Dr. Mohammad Keyhani: Exploring new pathways created by generative AI in the science and practice of organization.
  • Dr. Lina Kattan: Solutions to urban traffic management using tradeable efficiency measures.
  • Dr. Alfred Lehar: How smart contracts can automate and secure transactions like real estate deals and business invoicing.
  • Dr. Sule Nur Kutlu: Empowering users to control their data and its impact on data sharing and business reputation.

“As we navigate the landscape of digital technologies, we find ourselves in a transformative era. Our researchers are exploring the depths of these groundbreaking technologies and their impacts on the work we do. Haskayne Business Exchange is an opportunity to bring these insights to industry and explore together how technology will revolutionize business. We aim to leverage our faculty’s expertise to inspire attendees to view research as an exciting opportunity for collective benefit.”

Sandy Hershcovis, Senior Associate Dean, Research, Haskayne School of Business

To ensure that academic research is effectively paired with industry practicality, HBX will include an industry panel comprised of today’s top business thought leaders. Panelists will discuss the ramifications of new digital technologies, offering insights on trends and innovations. This will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how these digital platforms will reshape organizations and communities, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to drive business growth and sustainability. The current industry panelists include those listed below, with additional panelists soon to be announced:

  • Neeraj Gupta: A serial entrepreneur, angel investor and board member to several start-ups and non-profit organizations, as well as co-founder at Lawcubator, FormulateIP and Kfx Labs and chief advisor for technology and innovation investments at Invest Alberta.
  • Danielle Gifford, MBA’20: Director of AI and Cloud at PwC known for her track record of driving innovation and creating value in cutting-edge technology and strategic investments.

“With over a decade of experience in the technology space, I strongly advocate for the adage that knowledge is power – particularly in the realm of emerging technology. Initiatives such as HBX are critical to fostering innovation and collaboration between academia and industry. By dismantling silos and promoting unity, we unlock the full potential of both worlds. I am excited to share my expertise at this event and look forward to the discussions that will emerge.”

Danielle Gifford, featured HBX industry panelist and director of AI and Cloud, PwC

More HBX industry panelists will be announced in the coming weeks. To purchase tickets for the event or learn more about HBX, visit: haskayne.ucalgary.ca/haskayne-business-exchange.

To learn more about the Haskayne School of Business, visit: haskayne.ucalgary.ca.
 

Media inquiries

Lauren Steeves
Senior Communications and Marketing Strategist, Haskayne School of Business
306.717.3253
lauren.steeves@ucalgary.ca

About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada’s entrepreneurial university, located in Canada’s most enterprising city. It is a top-five research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 35,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada’s leader in the creation of start-upsStart something today at the University of Calgary.

For more information, visit ucalgary.ca. Stay up to date with UCalgary news headlines on X (Twitter) @UCalgary. For access to news releases, details on faculties and how to reach experts, go to our newsroom at ucalgary.ca/newsroom.

About the Haskayne School of Business
The Haskayne School of Business was founded at the University of Calgary in 1967, and was named in honour of Richard F. Haskayne, OC, AOE, FCA, in 2002. The business school has approximately 4,000 full- and part-time students enrolled in bachelor's, master's, doctorate and executive education programs, and stays connected with its more than 30,000 alumni in 91 countries worldwide. Haskayne is where big ideas come to life and bold leaders thrive. Our mission is to create innovative research, unparalleled learning opportunities and meaningful engagement with our community. 

For more information, visit haskayne.ucalgary.ca or follow us on X (Twitter) @HaskayneSchool