Yale SOM Plays Key Role in Gathering of Thought Leaders from African Diaspora

Yale SOM served as the academic strategic partner along with the Opportunity Funding Corporation (OFC) and the Premier of Bermuda, co-sponsors of the 2008 OFC-Bermuda Forum. OFC has worked across sectors since 1970 to develop minority businesses primarily in the United States. A distinguished group of business, government, military, and NGO leaders from the African Diaspora met in Bermuda in November 2008 to explore 21st century market opportunities throughout Africa, the Caribbean, and elsewhere.

Faculty and students participated in all aspects of the Forum, including serving as panel members and rapporteurs. In this podcast several of the SOM representatives discuss the event. They are led by Constance E. Bagley, a professor in the practice of law and management and one of the prime organizers from the school. Her research focuses on the ability of legally astute managers and entrepreneurs to use the law and legal tools to create value, marshal resources, and manage risk. Professor Bagley commented, "I echo the sentiments of OFC head Sharon Pratt, who dubbed our student participants a 'brilliant constellation of emerging business leaders' and thanked them for their ‘extraordinary contribution.'"

Listen to the podcast of SOM participants discussing the OFC-Bermuda Forum. (10:14)