9-9:10 a.m., Margery Reed Hall, Reiman Theater 

Melissa Akaka, Associate Dean for Research and Brand Strategy

 9:10-9:30 a.m., Margery Reed Hall, Reiman Theater 

Bruce Klaw, Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Business Ethics and Legal Studies

  9:45-10:45 a.m., Margery Reed Hall, Reiman Theater   

In this era of rapid technological advancement, businesses are increasingly turning to cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) to drive sustainability and innovation. This panel will explore how emerging technologies are utilized across businesses to enhance sustainable practices for companies and their stakeholders. The discussion will focus on the social, environmental and economic implications of these technologies, highlighting their potential to revolutionize sustainable business operations, improve transparency and foster responsible economic growth.  

Panelists:

• Jack Buffington, Associate Professor of the Practice, University of Denver; Director of Supply Chain and Sustainability, First Key Consulting
• James Warren, Sustainable Mobility Policy Advisor, Denver Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency
• Gwen O’Connor, Principal Director, Accenture Oracle Business Group, Tech Strategy and Sustainability

Moderator:

• Murat Kucukvar, Assistant Professor, Department of Business Ethics and Legal Studies 

11 a.m.-noon, Margery Reed Hall, Reiman Theater 

As workplaces evolve with new technology and shifting societal priorities, organizations must prioritize fairness, flexibility, inclusion and reskilling to build sustainable and thriving labor conditions. This panel will explore innovative strategies to promote wage fairness, leverage technology for equity, foster a culture of employability and lifelong learning, and advance health, well–being and diversity. Additionally, the discussion will highlight approaches to enhancing employee engagement and retention, ensuring a motivated and resilient workforce for the future. 

Panelists:

• Dennis Dougherty, Executive Director, Colorado AFL-CIO
• Monica Williams, CEO and Principal Consultant, TIED Leadership Roundtable 
• Andrea Miller, Head of Corporate Responsibility, Delta Dental Colorado 

Moderator:

• Don Mayer, Professor of the Practice, Department of Business Ethics and Legal Studies

 Noon-1:15 p.m., Joy Burns Center Tuscan Ballroom  

Enjoy a meal while networking with like-minded business leaders.

 1:30-2:30 p.m., Margery Reed Hall, Reiman Theater 

This discussion will delve into how asset managers, banks and governments can identify and capitalize on business opportunities arising from the transition to a more sustainable economy. Experts will explore strategies and solutions designed to address pressing sustainability challenges, including climate change, while highlighting the critical role of regulatory reporting standards and corporate disclosures in driving better risk management and transparency. 

Panelists:

• Ramsay Huntley, Senior Advisor in Sustainable Finance
• Paul Atkinson, Sustainability Specialist (Energy and Natural Resources), S&P Global 
• Eivind Lorgen, Chair Emeritus Investor Advisory Group, Sustainability Accounting Standards Board 
• Dominique Gomez, Deputy Director, Colorado Energy Office 

Moderator:

• Chris Hughen, Associate Professor, Reiman School of Finance 

 2:45-3:45 p.m. 

This session will showcase founders, entrepreneurs and startups that are working to tackle the challenges of climate change and This session will explore how innovative ideas and entrepreneurial ventures are transforming sustainability and addressing global challenges through creative problem-solving and scalable solutions. Highlighting the intersection of entrepreneurship and sustainability, the discussion will showcase how businesses drive impactful change toward a greener, more equitable future. 

Panelists:

• Ameen Saafir, CEO and Co-Founder, Tynt Technologies
• Jaclyn Tracy, CEO and Founder, Sistain 
• World Affairs Challenge Student Team 

Moderator:

• John Sebesta, Koch Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship and Assistant Professor of the Practice