Western New England University welcomed M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust to campus on Thursday, April 10, for a dynamic Economic Forum highlighting current economic trends and insights. Held at the Kevin S. Delbridge Welcome Center, the event brought together regional business leaders, investors, University Trustees, College of Business Advisory Board members, and faculty for an afternoon of thought leadership and community engagement.
The forum featured keynote speaker Dr. Luke Tilley, chief economist and head of Economics, Asset Allocation & Quantitative Services for Wilmington Trust Investment Advisors, Inc. (WTIA). Dr. Tilley shared his expert analysis on economic indicators and market forecasts, drawing from his extensive experience in both public and private sectors. In addition to his current role, he serves on WTIA’s Investment Committee and chairs the American Bankers Association’s Economic Advisory Committee.
As part of the event, M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust presented a $10,000 gift to Western New England’s College of Business. The funding will support the College’s expanding FinTech and artificial intelligence initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to innovative business education and preparing students for the evolving global economy.
University President Dr. Robert E. Johnson and Dean of the College of Business Dr. Sharianne Walker welcomed guests and offered remarks highlighting the school’s strong connections with the business community. Both spoke about the University’s dedication to economic development and workforce readiness in the region.
“Partnerships like the one we share with M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust are crucial in helping us deliver forward-looking programs that empower our students to succeed in a rapidly changing economy,” said President Johnson.
Dr. Tilley, who joined Wilmington Trust in 2015 following a role as an economic advisor with the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, also previously served in key positions with IHS Global Insight and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He holds a PhD in economics from Temple University and a bachelor's degree in economics and history from James Madison University.
The event underscored the ongoing collaboration between Western New England University and industry partners to bring real-world insight and opportunity to students and the greater business community.
