(March 21, 2014)

Second annual Steger Forum to address privatizing the public sector

SHREVEPORT, LA — The William E. Steger Financial & Economic Literacy Forum, a Centenary Frost School of Business event, will be held in the Whited Room of Bynum Commons on Tuesday, March 25, at 11:15 a.m.

The second in Steger lecture series, this convocation will address "Privatizing the Public Sector" with special guest Dr. John George '82, CEO of the Biomedical Research Foundation. George will discuss the 2013 privatization of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, of which Biomedical Research Foundation assumed management.

"Nationally and locally we have seen a trend toward privatization of public sector jobs such as the privatization of LSU Medical Center in Shreveport and the E.A. Conway Medical Center in Monroe," said Dr. Chris Martin, Dean of the Frost School of Business. "It is important we provide our students the opportunity to understand what such change means for the economy, our communities, and their futures as business leaders. Our keynote speaker, Dr. John George, has led the transition of Louisiana public hospitals to private/nonprofit status. He has been a champion supporter of Centenary and its efforts to form leaders for a changing world, and we look forward to hearing his expertise on this important topic."

After several years as a geologist in the oil and gas industry, George began his medical career as a physician and co-founded LifeCare Management Service, LLC. As Medical Director, he was instrumental in the unique development of LifeCare Case Management, Ancillary Services, Direct Contracting, Quality Assurance, Physician Relations, Education, and Training. As Chief Operating Officer, he developed cost containment strategies, and during his tenure as Executive Vice President of Development, was responsible for several hospital startups and acquisitions. With this diverse background in business development, investment management expertise, and clinical management, George has a unique combination of successful experience integrating businesses and medical management. George currently acts as Secretary of the Centenary Board of Trustees.

In addition to George's presentation, the forum will also feature a panel discussion with Frost faculty to explore the topic of privatization in general.

The event will be free and open to the public. Convocation passport points are available.