On a regular basis the University of Tampa Board of Fellows has a Business Network Symposium that is well worth attending. The procedure is clear and concise. An ad is run in the local media indicating the date and speakers. (Usually three) The topics are not necessarily connected to each other. The event is free and the speakers are timely and informative.

On Oct. 18th, the guests were Renee Benton, President and CEO of Tampa Bay Workforce Alliance. This lady knows her stuff. Her qualifications are great on paper, but Renee is a person that understands the problems of the employee and the employer.

The second speaker was John Eder, V.P. of Finance for the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. With 1,500 employees, this business has a significant impact on the Tampa area. His job has to be one of the most demanding and exacting that can be found.

The third speaker was Ralph Mervine, the embattled Executive Director of The Tampa-Hillsborough Expressway Authority. Talk about someone with their hands full: opening a new part of the Crosstown, presenting an idea for a "beltway" and dealing with the scrutiny and publicity of an investigation.

We hope the audio video clips give you a real insight into three very dynamic people in our community. Watch for the next event at UT, it is well worth the price of admission - BUT it doesn't cost anything to attend. In this case, paid for by the generosity of the Bank of Florida and the University of Tampa.

Click here to hear Renee Benton Speak.

Click here to hear John Eder Speak.

Click here to hear Ralph Mervine Speak.

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