Pillars in the Community

The Clayton Chamber of Commerce recognizes Benjamin Ola. Akande, Ph.D. for his vision, leadership and passion for excellence in higher education.  Pillars in the Community presented by Centene Corporation takes place 11:30 a.m. December 10th at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis – 100 Carondelet Plaza in Clayton.

Akande is a Professor of Economics and the Dean of George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology at Webster University. He also serves as Webster University's Chief of the Office of Corporate Partnerships.

Akande, an economics and business commentator, is often asked to speak or write for such media outlets as Anderson Cooper 360, the CBS Evening News, the St. Louis affiliates of FOX, ABC, and NBC and USA TODAY, Ladue News and on public radio's "Market-place to name a few.  In addition he collaborates with many CEOs of the metro-area’s 100 largest and most influential companies.  He is completing his latest book, entitled The IPOD Generation: It's Their World, We're Just Living In It.

Akande serves as Vice-Chair of Beyond Housing, is a director of Ralcorp Corporation and serves on Ralcorp's compensation committees. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees for Missouri Baptist Medical Center and joins the St. Louis Art Museum’s board in January 2013.

The cost to attend is $50.  Table sponsorships are available at the cost of $550 and include preferred seating for a table of eight.  Reservations are required and may be made by calling the Chamber 726-3033 or online at www.claytoncommerce.com.