WCSU to host ‘The Economy and You’ forum Oct. 16 in Danbury

A free economic symposium titled “The Economy and You” is slated for 6 p.m. Oct. 16 at Ives Concert Hall, Western Connecticut State University. Education, health, the international economy and modern bank robbery are on the docket.

Experts on hand will include WCSU President James Schmotter, Western Connecticut Health Network CEO Dr. John Murphy and international economist Nicholas Perna, an adviser to Webster Bank.

Education, business and health care leaders are expected to discuss current trends, technical developments and paths to success.

“Our goal is to create a groundbreaking event that will generate innovative ideas and serve as a resource for forward-thinking insights and concepts,” said event host Robert Reby, CEO of Danbury-based Reby Advisors. “We want to inform the community on critical issues that help them not to just survive but thrive in this economy.”

After the welcome session at 6 p.m., the program begins with Schmotter discussing “Building a Better Education System.” Murphy will share his insights on “The Future of Healthcare” and Nicholas Perna will offer his predictions, “Will the Jobless Recovery Continue?”

At 7 p.m. there will be a series of breakout sessions, including “The Future is Here: Cars That Drive Themselves,” with Bob Camastro, general manager and owner, Mercedes-Benz of Danbury and Wappingers Falls; “Is Your Home a Good Investment?” with Paul Scalzo, owner, Bethel-based Scalzo Group; “The American Manufacturing Comeback,” with James Marquis, president, Danbury-based Kimchuk Inc.; and “How to Rob a Bank (Online Theft),” with Jay Mortara, an officer with the Danbury Police Department.

Seating is limited. Free tickets are available at TheEconomyAndYou.com.