JANS – For over 35 years, Tougaloo College has highlighted the state’s business community and the symbiotic relationship that has developed between the two in its annual Business Luncheon. This year, as in previous years, the event brought together many of the state’s most preeminent business, government, and educational leaders, as well as those in other private and public sector organizations who reflected on the theme, “Emerging Trends in Business and Technology: Implications for Equity and Inclusion.”

Ashlee V. Davidson, Vice President of Communications for Lockheed Martin, spoke about the rapidly changing way businesses are now operating due to new technologies and developments in artificial intelligence. She noted that AI has evolved from being used as just a tool to now reaching the status of collaborator and co-creator for businesses.   

“As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the skillsets and requirements will look different. Everything from what our scholars are learning today to the requirements for job descriptions and even the way we ingrain new team members into the workforce will look different.”

Davidson implored businesses to be intentional about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. In conclusion, Davidson’s final charge to businesses was embracing the positive disruptions that appear by stating, “Embrace the speed at which it’s moving and embrace your team members who are trying to understand tech while mastering it all at the same time.”

Additionally, BankPlus was inducted into the college’s 2024 Society of Philanthropists. This honor expresses the institution’s appreciation to companies, organizations, and individuals who have supported the vision and mission of Tougaloo College in measurable yet priceless ways.