Text reading "Wharton in Focus" in bold, stylized white lettering on a transparent background.
Text reading "Wharton in Focus" in bold, stylized white lettering on a transparent background.

Wharton in Focus: Beijing 2024

Wharton Experts Explore Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Beijing

On October 26, more than 100 members of the Wharton network spent their Saturday afternoon at the China World Hotel Beijing, for a Wharton in Focus event centered around entrepreneurship and innovation.

Chief Advancement Officer Bill Bole took the stage first to welcome attendees. He shared what he admires most about the city of Beijing: its resilience and dynamism. He also underscored the Wharton School’s position at the forefront of business education and extended his gratitude to The Wharton Fund donors, whose support helps the School nurture its forward-thinking initiatives.

The next Wharton superstar speaker was Dean Erika James, who shared how thrilled and honored she was to spend time in China for a third time in one year. The dean mentioned that Beijing is a powerhouse for new ideas that attracts talent from around the world, and she addressed the Wharton Beijing Club’s many accomplishments. Dean James said that by hosting engaging events with esteemed local alumni, the club is uplifting and encouraging its members.

The dean invited Karl Ulrich, the CIBC Endowed Professor and co-founder of Venture Lab, to the Wharton in Focus stage. Professor Ulrich delivered a thoughtful, empowering presentation about innovation and disruption. He engaged with the crowd and answered questions about the future of innovation.

After a quick coffee break, Dean James took the stage once more for a conversation with Lori Rosenkopf, the vice dean of entrepreneurship and the Simon and Midge Palley Professor. They provided a glimpse into the latest developments in entrepreneurship at Wharton and how the School is empowering student entrepreneurs.

CAO Bill Bole concluded the jam-packed afternoon of programming by motivating alumni to champion the School through philanthropy and engagement — highlighting the lasting legacy of the Wharton network.

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