Boston University’s Questrom School of Business officially inaugurated the Ravi K. Mehrotra Institute for Business, Markets, and Society on September 19.
The institute was founded thanks to a donation from UK-based business magnate Ravi K. Mehrotra, the founder of Foresight Group in London and a former marine engineer. Under the leadership of Director Marcel Rindisbacher, the institute will prioritize both research and public engagement.
The launch event included a conversation between Mehrotra and Questrom Dean Susan Fournier, as well as a panel discussion featuring industry leaders such as Anthony Allott, chairperson of Silgan Holdings, and Om Prakash Bhatt, former chairman of the State Bank of India. Lawrence H. Summers, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, delivered the keynote address during the dinner.
“An institute focused on the intersections of business, markets, and society is essential in bridging the gaps in understanding and fostering collaboration across these key areas. This will lead to a more informed, ethical, and sustainable approach to commerce and economics,” Mehrotra stated.
Fournier highlighted the Institute’s mission of enhancing public understanding of business. “There is much to be done in business academia, and the Mehrotra Institute is uniquely positioned to harness the potential of business and markets to drive positive global change,” she said.
The Institute will focus on developing educational programs, encouraging dialogue on capitalism, and conducting evidence-based research that seeks to balance the prosperity of businesses with societal goals. It will also host events and discussions aimed at improving public awareness of the responsibilities businesses hold in today’s global economy.
