Chafee, Schlesinger named Keynote Speakers at Bryant's World Trade Day

Gov. Chafee and CBS News Senior Business Analyst Jill Schlesinger are among the keynote speakers at Bryant's 28^th annual World Trade Day May 22. 

More than 500 business, government and academic leaders will explore ways in which local corporations can expand globally during the event.

Other speakers include Cumberland-based textile solutions provider Hope Global President and CEO Cheryl Merchant, Cranston-based Alex and Ani jewelry company CEO Giovanni Feroce, and John Hazen White, Jr., president of Cranston-based Taco, Inc.

Attendees will learn about the different aspects of international business from sessions addressing different levels of exporting expertise, from how to set up an export team and utilize trade missions and tradeshows, to marketing overseas, leveraging the benefits of free trade agreements and manufacturing challenges related to exporting products. More than 40 manufacturers, service providers and trade organizations will also be on-site exhibiting their organizations and services.

 “There has never been a more important time for the corporate community to expand its business horizons overseas. Strong businesses today must be selling and growing internationally as well as in their local markets, and we want Bryant to be a thought leader in helping them in this endeavor,” said Bryant University President Ronald K. Machtley.