Lehigh CBE Hosts Symposium on Earnings and Wages
A recent symposium at Lehigh University’s College of Business and Economics (Lehigh CBE) held great interest for both MBAs with work experience and for those who may just be starting on their career paths.
On September 30th, economists, community leaders and educators gathered at the college’s Rauch Business Center to address a vital and timely question—who is responsible for earnings decisions for our country’s workers?
During the current highly charged election season, the issue of wage equity is at the top of the list for voters. The symposium, “Getting Paid: Earnings Issues in Today’s Economy,” invited participants to delve into the many facets of this complicated issue. Several discussion points arose, including the gender pay gap and the disproportionate nature of CEO salaries. Also discussed was the notion that minimum wage increases can alleviate poverty.
Included among the roster of speakers was Federal Reserve System Deputy Director William Wascher, who questioned the idea that an increased minimum wage would have the desired effect of boosting the economy, noting job loss as a key factor.
Lehigh CBE Dean Georgette Chapman Phillips noted of the symposium, “It’s important that we listen to the experts weigh in….There are few concerns that are more top-of-mind and pressing than earnings and wages… one of the most important things that we can do as a business school is just this.”
The second half of the day saw Associate Professor of Sociology Danielle Lindemann moderate a panel in which she discussed the issues that spawned the pay gap. Bryce Covert, economic policy director at ThinkProgress, also served as part of the panel, asserting her belief that the wage gap is a reality born of a multitude of factors that must change before any real shift can happen.
About the Author
Maggie Boccella
Maggie Boccella, a lifelong resident of Philadelphia, is a freelance writer, artist and photographer. She has consulted on various film and multimedia projects, and she also serves as a juror for the city's annual LGBTQIA Film Festival.
