Previously published by Forbes

While climate risk, social equity and ethical governance used to be peripheral concerns, they are now central to long-term business success. According to GMP Global, delivering profits is no longer sufficient, businesses are now expected to play a meaningful role in shaping a sustainable future. At the same time, technology is rapidly evolving, offering powerful new tools to help companies meet these challenges head on.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out not just as a driver of operational efficiency, but as a catalyst for smarter, more sustainable decision-making.

Continue reading here.

  • RWE recently commissioned six renewable energy projects totaling 999 MW operating capacity, supporting greater grid reliability and energy security
  • RWE adds one new wind farm, one repowered wind farm, three new solar projects and one standalone battery energy storage project across four different states, including its first operational project in Arkansas
  • The six renewable energy projects brought more than 1,400 jobs during construction to local areas and will generate more than $130 million in local tax revenue over their operating lifetimes

AUSTIN, Texas, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — RWE, the third largest renewable energy company in the U.S., has expanded its growing operational asset base by completing six projects in recent months with a combined capacity of 999 megawatts (MW). The projects include one new wind farm, one repowered wind farm, three new solar installations and one standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) across four states. The newly completed projects strengthen U.S. energy infrastructure and independence, and will be capable of producing enough electricity to power the equivalent of more than 177,000 homes and businesses nationwide.

Andrew Flanagan, CEO, RWE Clean Energy: “RWE is meeting growing demand by providing homegrown energy and advancing U.S. energy leadership with six completed clean energy assets. These projects advance domestic energy security nationwide, while stimulating local economic growth and creating energy sector jobs. As we move forward, we’ll continue to help meet the rising energy demand across the U.S.”

The newly operating assets include an expansion of the Westside Canal Complex, adding a 119 MW (476 MWh) 4-hour battery energy storage project located in Imperial County, California. As the second phase of the Westside Canal Complex, which provided 160 construction jobs, it increases the total capacity to 250 MW (1,000 MWh). This addition strengthens California’s energy resilience, supporting reliability and the grid. It will also support local economic growth contributing an estimated $20 million in property tax revenue over the project’s 20-year lifetime.

RWE completed three projects in Texas, including a 300 MW solar project in Goliad, Texas called Peregrine Solar. The project team’s efficient work enabled the project to safely commission 300 MW in 15 days. This project provided critical economic benefits and local employment of 250 workers during its construction phase. Additionally, RWE’s project will provide a community benefit that will generate over $180,000 per year for local jurisdictions throughout the project’s lifetime.

Peyton Creek II, a 243 MW wind project in Bay City, Texas, was recently commissioned, bringing the total generating capacity of the Peyton Creek Complex to 394 MW. Peyton Creek II created approximately 250 jobs during construction, with the full Peyton Creek Complex now supporting 20 full-time local jobs in operation and adding approximately $60 million to the local tax revenue in Matagorda County over the project’s lifetime.

Also in Texas, RWE has completed commissioning of the repowered Champion Wind project, a 127 MW wind farm in Nolan and Mitchell counties, Texas. Originally commissioned in 2008, RWE extended the project lifetime for an additional 20 years, ensuring continued support for the local community and generating approximately $31 million in tax revenue over the project’s lifetime. During construction, the project provided more than 200 local jobs.

Marking RWE’s first operational project in Arkansas, Quartz Solar, is a 135 MW solar project in Cross County, bringing new economic opportunities and added workforce in the state during a time of exponential power demand as data centers and manufacturing surge. The project supported 300 jobs at peak construction and will support additional permanent jobs during operation. Notably, Quartz Solar will provide $12.5 million in property tax revenue during its operating lifetime.

In Virginia, RWE’s 75 MW Wythe County Solar is now operational and is contributing to the region’s power supply. The project employed more than 300 workers during peak construction and sourced locally for services during construction such as water, dumpsters, sanitary services, rental equipment and more. It will also add around $7 million in property tax revenue over the lifetime of the project. This project aligns with Virginia’s “all of the above” energy strategy and helps meet growing energy demands.

Generating Impact in the U.S.
The commissioning of nearly 1 gigawatt of clean energy assets is providing American-made energy to the local grid and provides thousands of jobs, many of which are locally sourced. From coast to coast, these projects provide reliable and affordable power capacity.

For more information, visit americas.rwe.com.

For further inquiries:

Patricia Kakridas
Sr. Manager, Media & Public Relations
Corporate Communications
RWE Clean Energy
M + 619-753-5206
E patricia.kakridas@rwe.com

RWE in the US
Through its subsidiary RWE Clean Energy, RWE is the third largest renewable energy company in the United States, with a presence in most U.S. states from coast to coast. RWE’s team of about 2,000 employees in the U.S. stands ready to help meet the nation’s growing energy needs. With its homegrown and fastest-to-market product, RWE supports the goal of American Energy dominance and independence. To that end, RWE Clean Energy is committed to increasing its already strong asset base of over 10 gigawatts of operating wind, solar and battery projects, focusing on providing high-quality jobs. RWE invests in local and rural communities while strengthening domestic manufacturing supporting the renaissance of American industry. This is complemented by RWE’s energy trading business. RWE is also a major offtaker of American liquified natural gas (LNG).

As an energy company with a successful history spanning more than 125 years, RWE has an extensive knowledge of the energy markets and an excellent expertise in all major power generation and storage technologies, from nuclear, coal and gas to hydro, batteries, wind and solar.

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SOURCE RWE

Star Jones, award winning television personality & women’s heart health advocate, helps kick off heart health conversations this Mother’s Day with the Medtronic ‘Letter to My Mother’ campaign

GALWAY, Ireland, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new Medtronic-sponsored survey of women ages 30-50 reveals a significant gap in awareness and discussion around heart health among women and their mother-figures. Despite cardiovascular disease being the #1 killer of women in the U.S., many women are still unaware of the risk and the importance of heart health.

The survey, endorsed by WomenHeart and conducted by Wakefield Research, found that nearly half of women (45%) were more likely to discuss sensitive topics such as politics, money, or relationships with their mother or grandmother before discussing family heart health history, despite the fact that as much as half of the risk for heart disease is hereditary.

For more than a century, heart disease has remained the leading cause of death in women, accounting for more deaths than all cancers combined. Yet, when it comes to serious heart concerns, women are up to 35% less likely to be treated with proven, minimally invasive solutions for heart valve failure than men, and women account for more than half (52%) of deaths caused by high blood pressure.1 Additionally, women often experience heart attack symptoms differently, and heart disease disproportionately impacts women of color, with 43% of Hispanic women and 59% of Black women experiencing some form of cardiovascular disease.

The Medtronic Letter to My Mother campaign encourages women to make heart health a priority, starting with a conversation with their mother, or a woman in their life, about family history, risk factors, and the signs and symptoms of heart disease. The campaign, part of the company’s ongoing commitment to leading and advancing clinical research for women’s health, seeks to close the gap in awareness of heart disease and risks—particularly heart valve failure and high blood pressure—in women.

“The U.S. is at a tipping point when it comes to women’s health, and heart health remains the deadliest concern of all,” said Nina Goodheart, senior vice president and president, Structural Heart & Aortic, which is part of the Cardiovascular Portfolio at Medtronic. “At Medtronic, we’re working relentlessly to ensure women receive personalized, evidence-based healthcare solutions, tailored to them. The launch of Letter to My Mother marks another step in our sustained commitment to improving health outcomes for all.”

Results from the survey reveal a surprising disconnect between what women fear for their mothers or mother-figures as they age and the actual conversations happening around family health history:

  • More than half of women (53%) worry that as their mothers age, they will ignore symptoms or fail to inform them when something is wrong.
  • Yet, over half (56%) admit they have never discussed heart health with their mothers or other women in their family.
  • For those with a family history of heart disease, only one-third (35%) asked their doctor to assess their heart risk.  
  • Only 44% of these same women actually talked about it with their mothers or mother-figures.

“As women, we are our own best advocates, but without the confidence, knowledge, or resources to discuss our health history, we are missing out on potential life-saving conversations,” said Star Jones, attorney, award-winning television personality & longtime women’s heart health advocate. “I come from a family with a long history of heart disease, yet this was rarely a topic we talked about. If only I had acknowledged my risk for heart disease earlier, I could’ve potentially addressed my concerns with my cardiologist sooner before it led to needing open-heart surgery. That is why I am speaking out now to get all women talking about this disease and how addressing symptoms could save their life – like it did for me.”

The survey also revealed that personal heart health is often overlooked by women in the sandwich generation, the population of women who bear the weight of making healthcare decisions for their children, parents, and family members. Almost all (94%) of women surveyed are responsible for making health-related decisions for loved ones, but over 60% of women find it hard to make their own health a priority. 

“As physicians, we know heart health is not one size fits all. Women have a unique experience with heart disease and risk factors – like high blood pressure during pregnancy which may be the first sign of chronic high blood pressure persisting throughout their lifespan,” said Dr. Raven Voora, hypertension specialist and nephrologist at UNC Health. “Too often, I’ve seen women present with risk factors or early signs of heart disease that they put on the backburner behind care for children and loved ones – or these signs and symptoms get brushed off as stress or anxiety. This survey shows us that patients need increased awareness and discussion surrounding heart health and to make sure they pay attention to their heart health.”

This May, during Women’s Health Month and timed to Mother’s Day – Medtronic encourages people to take the pledge to talk to their mother or the women in their life about heart health today. For every pledge, Medtronic will make a donation to a cause that advances women’s heart health.

Visit Alettertomymother.com to take the pledge and learn more.

About the Medtronic Letter to My Mother Survey:
Medtronic engaged Wakefield Research to conduct a nationally representative survey to gain insights into consumer perceptions and awareness of heart disease in women aged 30 through 50, targeted to the “daughters” who are sandwiched between taking care of their health, their children and parents. The survey was deployed among 1,000 U.S. women, ages 30 to 50, with a living mother and a living child, between March 13th and March 17th, 2025, using an email invitation and an online survey.

Survey results are endorsed by WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, the nation’s leading voice for women living with or at risk of heart disease. WomenHeart is dedicated to promoting awareness, advocacy, and support for women with heart disease, empowering them to take charge of their heart health and improve outcomes.

About the Medtronic Letter to My Mother Campaign:
The Medtronic “Letter to My Mother” campaign aims to educate and close the gap in awareness of heart disease in women — the number one cause of death for more than a century. The campaign encourages people to start conversations with their mothers and loved ones about heart disease, including high blood pressure and heart valve failure, to better understand their family health history and risk factors. The campaign is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to leading and advancing clinical research for women’s health and was supported by the Medtronic Coronary & Renal Denervation and Structural Heart & Aortic businesses. To learn more about heart disease including signs, symptoms, treatment options and resources to start the conversation today, visit ALettertomyMother.com.

About Medtronic
Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Galway, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 90,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic (NYSE:MDT), visit www.Medtronic.com and follow Medtronic on LinkedIn.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic’s periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Contacts:

Kimberly Powell
Public Relations
+1-202-498-2601

Ryan Weispfenning
Investor Relations
+1-763-505-4626

1 Caoimhe T Rice, Sophie Barnett, Shea P O’Connell, Enoch Akowuah, Clare E Appleby, John B Chambers, Benoy N Shah, Daniel J Blackman – Impact of gender, ethnicity and social deprivation on access to surgical or transcatheter aortic valve replacement in aortic stenosis: a retrospective database study in England: Open Heart 2023;10:e002373.

 

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SOURCE Medtronic plc

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

By Katelyn Armas

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your career journey, and what led you to your current role.

Hi, I’m Nate. Like many who have spent decades in the tech industry, my career journey began somewhat by chance. Fresh out of college and uncertain about my next steps, a family member suggested I apply for a role in the Customer Contact Center at GoDaddy. It was a significant improvement over my job at the time, so I decided to take the leap.

I spent several years directly assisting customers, finding immense satisfaction in solving problems and making a tangible impact on their businesses. This daily motivation drove me to grow, and as I sought ways to make a broader impact, I transitioned into leadership within the Contact Center. Leading teams was a rewarding experience, and I enjoyed the challenge of mentoring and empowering others. Over time, I began to see opportunities to drive even greater change, particularly in the tools and systems our teams relied on every day. This realization led me to my current role in Product Management, where I focus on enhancing the tooling that supports our entire Contact Center.

Looking back, my journey has been about embracing challenges and seeking opportunities to create a positive impact. With a mix of curiosity and a willingness to say “yes” to new experiences, I believe this approach has allowed many of us at GoDaddy to advance our careers.

How do you keep yourself motivated and inspired in your work?

Staying motivated is an evolving challenge—what drives you one year might change the next. For me, maintaining motivation comes down to two key factors:

First, a positive attitude and a bias for action. Constantly seeking improvements and witnessing those enhancements take shape make it hard not to stay energized for the next challenge.

Second, the people. The work I do directly impacts colleagues I’ve collaborated with over the years, and knowing that I’m making their jobs easier and more effective keeps me engaged. Seeing the tangible benefits of our efforts—whether it’s a more efficient workflow or a better user experience—is incredibly inspiring.

If you had to describe GoDaddy’s culture in one word, what would it be and why?

Tenacious.

At GoDaddy, the “Go” isn’t just part of our name—it defines how we operate. We are relentless in our pursuit of better solutions, always pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.

Innovation, improvement, and problem-solving are ingrained in our DNA, and we never settle for “good enough” when we know we can do better.

Once we set a vision, we commit to seeing it through with determination and resilience. Whether it’s developing new products, enhancing customer experiences, or overcoming unexpected challenges, we push forward with purpose. Our tenacity ensures that we don’t just meet expectations—we exceed them, delivering meaningful results for both our customers and teams.

Can you share an example of how you collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless product integrations?

Working on CRM systems means collaborating with teams across the organization on projects ranging from minor enhancements to large-scale implementations. Each project requires input from Engineering, Operations, Customer Support, Product Management, and sometimes Legal and Compliance teams. Successful collaboration starts with clearly defined goals and well-vetted requirements, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on the desired outcomes. This prevents scope creep and misalignment, helping teams stay focused on delivering value. Equally important is fostering open communication—regular check-ins, shared documentation, and transparent decision-making help identify issues early rather than at the last minute. A robust cross-functional approach ensures each team understands their responsibilities and how their work impacts others, creating a smoother integration process.

Even with thorough planning, unexpected challenges will arise—whether from shifting business priorities, technical limitations, or unforeseen complexities. Adaptability and strong leadership are key to keeping projects on track. A great leader drives progress with a problem-solving mindset, ensuring the team remains focused even when obstacles appear. The ability to pivot, find creative solutions, and maintain forward momentum is what ultimately turns a complex integration into a success. When clear goals, effective communication, and adaptability come together, cross-functional teams can deliver seamless integrations that enhance both business operations as well as the customer experience.

What’s the most challenging yet rewarding thing that you’ve worked on at GoDaddy?

Implementing Salesforce.

Anyone familiar with Salesforce knows how complex and powerful the platform can be. When I first stepped into the implementation process, I had zero experience with Salesforce, yet we were tasked with rolling it out under tight deadlines. This meant simultaneously learning the intricacies of the system while making high-stakes decisions that would eventually impact thousands of employees and, ultimately, our customers.

The challenge wasn’t just about understanding Salesforce itself—it was about translating business needs into a system that could improve efficiency, enhance the customer experience, and empower our teams. We had to navigate countless integration points, customize workflows to align with our specific operational requirements, and ensure a seamless transition without disrupting daily operations. Balancing all of these moving pieces while meeting aggressive timelines required constant problem-solving, adaptability, and cross-functional collaboration.

Despite the initial difficulties, the payoff was absolutely worth it. Seeing the system go live, watching our teams leverage new capabilities, and hearing feedback about how it has made their work easier and more efficient was incredibly rewarding. What once seemed like an overwhelming challenge evolved into a powerful tool that enables our Contact Center to provide better service, streamline operations, and adapt to future needs. This experience reinforced my belief that the biggest challenges often lead to the most meaningful growth.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I have a deep passion for storytelling, particularly through writing science fiction. I love crafting new worlds, exploring futuristic concepts, and imagining how technology and human nature might evolve. Writing is both a creative outlet and a way to challenge my own thinking. I’m also an avid reader and enjoy diving into a wide range of genres, from sci-fi and fantasy to history and psychology. There’s something fascinating about exploring different perspectives and ideas, whether through fiction or non-fiction.

When I need to unwind, you’ll often find me watching TV shows or playing video games. I appreciate well-written narratives, whether in a gripping series or an immersive MMO. Video games, in particular, offer a unique blend of storytelling and interactivity that I find incredibly engaging.

Traveling is another passion of mine. I love experiencing new cultures, trying different foods, and stepping outside of my comfort zone to see the world from a fresh perspective. Even if it’s just a weekend getaway, there’s something exciting about exploring new places.

Of course, spending quality time with my family and my dog is a top priority. Whether it’s a casual evening at home or an adventure outdoor, I cherish those moments of connection and relaxation.

Lastly, I have a natural curiosity and a love for learning. Whether it’s picking up a new skill, diving into a documentary, or tinkering with a new technology, I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and challenge myself in new ways.

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

MARYSVILLE, Ohio, MAy 7, 2025 /3BL/ – To connect more children to gardens and outdoor play, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation and KidsGardening awarded grants to 170 community-level programs under the annual GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant initiative.

From spring through fall, the programs will start or expand youth gardens and green spaces. Selections for the 2025 GroMoreGood grant recipients were based upon the learning impact, including factors such as individual program participants, prior funding and socioeconomic reach, among others.

“We are grateful to partner with The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation to support the GroMoreGood Grassroots Grants and bring the transformative power of gardens to communities nationwide,” says Em Shipman, KidsGardening executive director. “This year’s recipients are truly inspiring—restoring gardens after natural disasters, creating inclusive spaces for youth with disabilities and revitalizing community gardens for after-school programs.”

The 2025 recipients span 44 states across the country and anticipate connecting more than 38,000 youth with garden-based learning opportunities. For a full list of GroMoreGood Grassroots grantees, visit GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant Winners.

“This year was notable with the number of unique proposals that reflected the challenges and opportunities many communities are facing,” said Brian Herrington, president of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation. “We’re confident these grantees not only will help foster a growing appreciation for gardens and green spaces, but also create positive experiences grounded in their many environmental, health and wellness benefits.”

Awards were distributed to the winners at the end of March 2025.

About The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation
The mission of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation is to inspire, connect and cultivate a community of purpose. The Foundation is deeply rooted in helping create healthier communities, empower the next generation, and preserve our planet. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that funds non-profit entities that support its core initiatives in the form of grants, endowments and multi-year capital gifts. For more information, visit www.scottsmiraclegrofoundation.org.

About KidsGardening
KidsGardening is a national nonprofit organization creating opportunities for kids to play, learn, and grow through gardening. They provide grants and original educational materials to more than 2.7 million kids across the country. For more information and to support their work, visit www.kidsgardening.org.

For media inquiries: Katherine Dickens Director, ESG and Social Impact
katherine.dickens@scotts.com

Beth Saunders KidsGardening Marketing and Communications Director
beths@kidsgardening.org

View original content here.

MARYSVILLE, Ohio, MAy 7, 2025 /3BL/ – To connect more children to gardens and outdoor play, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation and KidsGardening awarded grants to 170 community-level programs under the annual GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant initiative.

From spring through fall, the programs will start or expand youth gardens and green spaces. Selections for the 2025 GroMoreGood grant recipients were based upon the learning impact, including factors such as individual program participants, prior funding and socioeconomic reach, among others.

“We are grateful to partner with The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation to support the GroMoreGood Grassroots Grants and bring the transformative power of gardens to communities nationwide,” says Em Shipman, KidsGardening executive director. “This year’s recipients are truly inspiring—restoring gardens after natural disasters, creating inclusive spaces for youth with disabilities and revitalizing community gardens for after-school programs.”

The 2025 recipients span 44 states across the country and anticipate connecting more than 38,000 youth with garden-based learning opportunities. For a full list of GroMoreGood Grassroots grantees, visit GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant Winners.

“This year was notable with the number of unique proposals that reflected the challenges and opportunities many communities are facing,” said Brian Herrington, president of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation. “We’re confident these grantees not only will help foster a growing appreciation for gardens and green spaces, but also create positive experiences grounded in their many environmental, health and wellness benefits.”

Awards were distributed to the winners at the end of March 2025.

About The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation
The mission of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation is to inspire, connect and cultivate a community of purpose. The Foundation is deeply rooted in helping create healthier communities, empower the next generation, and preserve our planet. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that funds non-profit entities that support its core initiatives in the form of grants, endowments and multi-year capital gifts. For more information, visit www.scottsmiraclegrofoundation.org.

About KidsGardening
KidsGardening is a national nonprofit organization creating opportunities for kids to play, learn, and grow through gardening. They provide grants and original educational materials to more than 2.7 million kids across the country. For more information and to support their work, visit www.kidsgardening.org.

For media inquiries: Katherine Dickens Director, ESG and Social Impact
katherine.dickens@scotts.com

Beth Saunders KidsGardening Marketing and Communications Director
beths@kidsgardening.org

View original content here.

The program empowers senior executives with strategic insights and governance skills to excel in board roles and drive organizational success.

ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Stephen M. Ross School of Business Executive Education at the University of Michigan, in collaboration with Emeritus, has launched the Board Director Program. This five-month immersive program is uniquely designed to serve both first-time and experienced board members with a comprehensive, future-focused curriculum that goes beyond traditional lecture-based learning. Unlike many peer offerings that are restricted by experience level, heavily theoretical, or narrowly focused, the Board Director Program integrates digital and AI governance, real-world simulations, and a balanced emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, ethics, and stakeholder activism — preparing leaders to navigate modern boardroom challenges with strategic insight and confidence. Enrollment is now open for the program, which begins on June 30, 2025.

According to PwC, 64 percent of corporate directors say their strategy is now tied to ESG issues, and 63 percent believe their board could be more impactful by anticipating disruption better. The Board Director Program addresses this need by empowering leaders with the skills to navigate boardroom dynamics, uphold regulatory compliance, and drive sustainable growth strategies.

“Board members must possess a combination of strategic insights, governance expertise, and ethical frameworks to effectively steer organizations forward,” says Mike Barger, faculty director of the Board Director Program and assistant clinical professor of business administration at Michigan Ross. “Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of corporate governance, financial acumen, and ESG initiatives, preparing them to step up to this critical role with confidence.”

The Board Director Program blends live online sessions with an immersive five-day on-campus module at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Participants will engage in interactive discussions led by world-renowned faculty and seasoned board members while analyzing real-world case studies and refining their decision-making skills through hands-on simulations. Upon completion, participants will be awarded a verified digital certificate from Michigan Ross Executive Education.

“The Board Director Program prepares executives to make informed decisions that align with organizational goals, stakeholder expectations, and evolving business trends. This skill set is more important than ever with rapidly changing market and regulatory conditions,” says Mike Malefakis, president of university partnerships at Emeritus. “We are excited to collaborate with Michigan Ross Executive Education to deliver this innovative program.”

For more information and to apply, please visit the program homepage.

About the University of Michigan

Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is a premier public research institution recognized for academic excellence and transformative research. With a strong alumni network and interdisciplinary collaboration, Michigan remains one of the top-ranked public universities in the United States. For more information, visit https://umich.edu.

About Michigan Ross Executive Education

The Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan is a diverse learning community grounded in the principle that business can be an extraordinary vehicle for positive change in today’s dynamic global economy. Through thought and action, members of the Ross community drive change and innovation that improve business and society. A Financial Times global Top 10 provider, Michigan Ross Executive Education helps individuals and organizations around the world find business solutions through exceptional learning experiences based on innovative research with tangible impact. Through a diverse array of programs for individuals and dynamic customized solutions for organizations, Michigan Ross has served more than 20,000 global executives with over 95 countries represented.

For more information, visit https://michiganross.umich.edu.

About Emeritus

Emeritus is committed to teaching the skills of the future by making high-quality education accessible and affordable to individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide. It does this by collaborating with more than 80 top-tier universities across the United States, Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, India, and China. Emeritus’ short courses, degree programs, professional certificates, and senior executive programs help individuals learn new skills and transform their lives, companies, and organizations. Its unique model of state-of-the-art technology, curriculum innovation, and hands-on instruction from senior faculty, mentors, and coaches has educated more than 350,000 individuals across more than 80 countries. For more information, please visit https://emeritus.org/.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-ross-executive-education-launches-the-board-director-program-in-collaboration-with-emeritus-302448681.html

SOURCE Emeritus

The program empowers senior executives with strategic insights and governance skills to excel in board roles and drive organizational success.

ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Stephen M. Ross School of Business Executive Education at the University of Michigan, in collaboration with Emeritus, has launched the Board Director Program. This five-month immersive program is uniquely designed to serve both first-time and experienced board members with a comprehensive, future-focused curriculum that goes beyond traditional lecture-based learning. Unlike many peer offerings that are restricted by experience level, heavily theoretical, or narrowly focused, the Board Director Program integrates digital and AI governance, real-world simulations, and a balanced emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, ethics, and stakeholder activism — preparing leaders to navigate modern boardroom challenges with strategic insight and confidence. Enrollment is now open for the program, which begins on June 30, 2025.

According to PwC, 64 percent of corporate directors say their strategy is now tied to ESG issues, and 63 percent believe their board could be more impactful by anticipating disruption better. The Board Director Program addresses this need by empowering leaders with the skills to navigate boardroom dynamics, uphold regulatory compliance, and drive sustainable growth strategies.

“Board members must possess a combination of strategic insights, governance expertise, and ethical frameworks to effectively steer organizations forward,” says Mike Barger, faculty director of the Board Director Program and assistant clinical professor of business administration at Michigan Ross. “Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of corporate governance, financial acumen, and ESG initiatives, preparing them to step up to this critical role with confidence.”

The Board Director Program blends live online sessions with an immersive five-day on-campus module at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Participants will engage in interactive discussions led by world-renowned faculty and seasoned board members while analyzing real-world case studies and refining their decision-making skills through hands-on simulations. Upon completion, participants will be awarded a verified digital certificate from Michigan Ross Executive Education.

“The Board Director Program prepares executives to make informed decisions that align with organizational goals, stakeholder expectations, and evolving business trends. This skill set is more important than ever with rapidly changing market and regulatory conditions,” says Mike Malefakis, president of university partnerships at Emeritus. “We are excited to collaborate with Michigan Ross Executive Education to deliver this innovative program.”

For more information and to apply, please visit the program homepage.

About the University of Michigan

Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is a premier public research institution recognized for academic excellence and transformative research. With a strong alumni network and interdisciplinary collaboration, Michigan remains one of the top-ranked public universities in the United States. For more information, visit https://umich.edu.

About Michigan Ross Executive Education

The Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan is a diverse learning community grounded in the principle that business can be an extraordinary vehicle for positive change in today’s dynamic global economy. Through thought and action, members of the Ross community drive change and innovation that improve business and society. A Financial Times global Top 10 provider, Michigan Ross Executive Education helps individuals and organizations around the world find business solutions through exceptional learning experiences based on innovative research with tangible impact. Through a diverse array of programs for individuals and dynamic customized solutions for organizations, Michigan Ross has served more than 20,000 global executives with over 95 countries represented.

For more information, visit https://michiganross.umich.edu.

About Emeritus

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SOURCE Emeritus

By Catharine Grimes, President of the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation

We are in an era of unprecedented medical innovation. Scientists are making remarkable progress to diagnose and treat diseases, bringing new hope to patients across the world. Unfortunately, these breakthroughs fail to reach everyone due to barriers to care.

The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (BMS Foundation), an independent charitable organization, is committed to changing that. Building on our legacy of expanding access to healthcare, we’ve launched a new strategic framework to strengthen sustainable health service delivery for regions of the world that are medically underserved and heavily burdened. We have zeroed in on four areas to meet critical needs: Adult Cancers; Pediatric Cancers and Blood Disorders; Excellence in Clinical Trials; and Neuropsychiatry.

As we strive to improve health outcomes, building local healthcare capacity is the foundation of our strategy. We do that by forging partnerships with community-based groups, public institutions, and other local stakeholders. Here is a snapshot of how the BMS Foundation is translating our strategy into lasting impact in each of our focus areas:

  1. Accelerating Early Detection of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, but early detection can dramatically improve survival rates. The BMS Foundation’s Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program (MLCCP) builds on over a decade of work in the U.S. to strengthen local healthcare system capacity and scale community-based screening.

The Quality Implementation of Lung Cancer Screening (QUILS) program through the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center and the University of Colorado Cancer Center is a testament to the power of this approach. QUILS empowers Kentucky healthcare providers to better evaluate high-risk patients and educates communities about the importance of early detection. In just ten years, QUILS has transformed Kentucky’s lung cancer screening rate from among the lowest nationwide to the second highest, driving a remarkable 10% decline in late-stage diagnoses.

Guided by our success in Kentucky, we recently expanded the program into Mississippi and Nevada. By improving access to lung cancer screenings in these heavily burdened regions, we have an opportunity to transform health outcomes and save lives.

  1. Boosting Local Capacity to Combat Pediatric Diseases

The second pillar of the BMS Foundation’s strategy – addressing pediatric cancers and blood disorders – has roots in our decadeslong efforts to support children in sub-Saharan Africa. Alongside partners, we mobilized at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic to train tens of thousands of healthcare workers and improve health outcomes.

In 2016, these joint efforts evolved into a new program, Global HOPE, to address staggering mortality rates for pediatric cancer and blood disorders in the region. Since then, Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine Global Health, with our support, have trained more than 7,000 healthcare workers – including 35 of the first hematology-oncology specialists on the continent – and provided care to more than 26,000 children.

The next phase of our pediatric work in sub-Saharan Africa will combat another threat: sickle cell disease (SCD), which is responsible for over 500 daily child deaths in the region. Simple life-saving interventions can treat SCD, but access to care is virtually nonexistent in non-urban areas. Leveraging the local infrastructure we have helped build for over 25 years, our new initiative is equipping local health systems and integrating SCD interventions into local primary care systems.

  1. Transforming the Clinical Trial Landscape to Improve Health Outcomes

Clinical trials are crucial in enabling new treatment options for patients. To ensure everyone can benefit from therapeutic breakthroughs and to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment, it is essential that patients enrolled in these trials be representative of the epidemiology of the disease being studied. However, that is too often not the case.

The BMS Foundation-established Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program (Winn Awards) is working to address that discrepancy, training the next generation of clinical trialists in high quality clinical trials and community engagement. Through these efforts, the Winn Awards program is working to improve participation in clinical trials to drive better health outcomes for all communities.

  1. Opening New Pathways for Critical Mental Health Services

The rate of Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in the U.S. is significantly higher in jail and prison than in the general population, with 44% of people in jail and 37% of incarcerated individuals living with mental illness. Almost half of Americans with SMI and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders have had contact with the criminal justice system.

Mental health diversion programs are a promising alternative to direct patients away from the criminal justice system and toward community-based mental health services. There is tremendous opportunity to expand the capacity of diversion programs across the country – and that’s exactly what the BMS Foundation’s newly launched program area will help facilitate. We will be supporting innovative community-based programs that can open new pathways to care and deliver better health outcomes for people with SMI.

Expanding Access to Care to Improve Global Health

At the BMS Foundation, we believe a healthier world is attainable and achievable. But access to care remains unequal. We must create more sustainable systems of health service delivery to eliminate barriers to care.

As we embark on our next chapter, our evolved strategy is designed to transform how care is delivered for areas that are medically underserved and heavily burdened by disease. Driven by a commitment to create lasting impact in the communities we serve and bolstered by robust partnerships, we are determined to bridge gaps in care and drive positive health outcomes for people in need of support – today and for years to come.

To learn more, visit the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation online.

By Catharine Grimes, President of the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation

We are in an era of unprecedented medical innovation. Scientists are making remarkable progress to diagnose and treat diseases, bringing new hope to patients across the world. Unfortunately, these breakthroughs fail to reach everyone due to barriers to care.

The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (BMS Foundation), an independent charitable organization, is committed to changing that. Building on our legacy of expanding access to healthcare, we’ve launched a new strategic framework to strengthen sustainable health service delivery for regions of the world that are medically underserved and heavily burdened. We have zeroed in on four areas to meet critical needs: Adult Cancers; Pediatric Cancers and Blood Disorders; Excellence in Clinical Trials; and Neuropsychiatry.

As we strive to improve health outcomes, building local healthcare capacity is the foundation of our strategy. We do that by forging partnerships with community-based groups, public institutions, and other local stakeholders. Here is a snapshot of how the BMS Foundation is translating our strategy into lasting impact in each of our focus areas:

  1. Accelerating Early Detection of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, but early detection can dramatically improve survival rates. The BMS Foundation’s Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program (MLCCP) builds on over a decade of work in the U.S. to strengthen local healthcare system capacity and scale community-based screening.

The Quality Implementation of Lung Cancer Screening (QUILS) program through the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center and the University of Colorado Cancer Center is a testament to the power of this approach. QUILS empowers Kentucky healthcare providers to better evaluate high-risk patients and educates communities about the importance of early detection. In just ten years, QUILS has transformed Kentucky’s lung cancer screening rate from among the lowest nationwide to the second highest, driving a remarkable 10% decline in late-stage diagnoses.

Guided by our success in Kentucky, we recently expanded the program into Mississippi and Nevada. By improving access to lung cancer screenings in these heavily burdened regions, we have an opportunity to transform health outcomes and save lives.

  1. Boosting Local Capacity to Combat Pediatric Diseases

The second pillar of the BMS Foundation’s strategy – addressing pediatric cancers and blood disorders – has roots in our decadeslong efforts to support children in sub-Saharan Africa. Alongside partners, we mobilized at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic to train tens of thousands of healthcare workers and improve health outcomes.

In 2016, these joint efforts evolved into a new program, Global HOPE, to address staggering mortality rates for pediatric cancer and blood disorders in the region. Since then, Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine Global Health, with our support, have trained more than 7,000 healthcare workers – including 35 of the first hematology-oncology specialists on the continent – and provided care to more than 26,000 children.

The next phase of our pediatric work in sub-Saharan Africa will combat another threat: sickle cell disease (SCD), which is responsible for over 500 daily child deaths in the region. Simple life-saving interventions can treat SCD, but access to care is virtually nonexistent in non-urban areas. Leveraging the local infrastructure we have helped build for over 25 years, our new initiative is equipping local health systems and integrating SCD interventions into local primary care systems.

  1. Transforming the Clinical Trial Landscape to Improve Health Outcomes

Clinical trials are crucial in enabling new treatment options for patients. To ensure everyone can benefit from therapeutic breakthroughs and to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment, it is essential that patients enrolled in these trials be representative of the epidemiology of the disease being studied. However, that is too often not the case.

The BMS Foundation-established Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program (Winn Awards) is working to address that discrepancy, training the next generation of clinical trialists in high quality clinical trials and community engagement. Through these efforts, the Winn Awards program is working to improve participation in clinical trials to drive better health outcomes for all communities.

  1. Opening New Pathways for Critical Mental Health Services

The rate of Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in the U.S. is significantly higher in jail and prison than in the general population, with 44% of people in jail and 37% of incarcerated individuals living with mental illness. Almost half of Americans with SMI and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders have had contact with the criminal justice system.

Mental health diversion programs are a promising alternative to direct patients away from the criminal justice system and toward community-based mental health services. There is tremendous opportunity to expand the capacity of diversion programs across the country – and that’s exactly what the BMS Foundation’s newly launched program area will help facilitate. We will be supporting innovative community-based programs that can open new pathways to care and deliver better health outcomes for people with SMI.

Expanding Access to Care to Improve Global Health

At the BMS Foundation, we believe a healthier world is attainable and achievable. But access to care remains unequal. We must create more sustainable systems of health service delivery to eliminate barriers to care.

As we embark on our next chapter, our evolved strategy is designed to transform how care is delivered for areas that are medically underserved and heavily burdened by disease. Driven by a commitment to create lasting impact in the communities we serve and bolstered by robust partnerships, we are determined to bridge gaps in care and drive positive health outcomes for people in need of support – today and for years to come.

To learn more, visit the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation online.

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