Covid-19 has upended the way that we live our lives. But from every crisis comes opportunity, and many companies, corporations, and institutions have begun to develop programs and products that will help us manage and deal with the new normal.
In partnership with the St. Thomas University Alumni Association, Gus Machado College of Business, and the School of Law, the newly launched STU Center for Pandemic, Disaster, and Quarantine has launched the Vincent Hennessy Lecture Series.
In its first iteration, the lecture brought together top experts from across the country to talk about new innovations inspired by Coronavirus across a variety of sectors for a live-streamed webinar titled “Innovation in the Time of Covid-19.” Moderated by STU Professor of law, Todd Clark, the lecture featured, Sam Zietz, Chief Executive Officer at Touchsuite, Dr. Bernie Fernandez, Chief Executive Officer at Baptist Health Medical Group, Albert E. Dotson, Managing Partner at Bilzin Sumberg and Annmarie Neal, Chief Human Resources Officer at Ultimate Software.
From law to human resources, many different industries have had to adapt their practices to meet the demands of the new virtual world. Companies like Touchsuite, a merchant services company that has developed software and products that include restaurant products. Touchsuite has developed new monitoring products that will aid in helping with ensuring restaurants and retail stores remain safe.
In the legal community, COVID-19 will change the way that contracts are conducted and have affected the validity of contracts. There is now an added conversation about liability and the responsibility each corporation or institution has. Lastly, companies like Ultimate Software, who are known for their “people first” approach to business has had to find ways to remotely manage thousands of employees. Now, remote work may become the new normal for many businesses. In the healthcare industry, they are leading in the response to COVID-19.
The lecture series is named after a 1967 STU alum, Vincent Hennessy. Hennessy is the person who gave STU President, David A. Armstrong, J.D. the idea and concept for the STU-PDQ.
“I am so proud of our institution, our faculty, and staff who have found and capitalized on opportunities during a global crisis,” said Armstrong.
To view a recap video of the session, click here.
