Yesterday, students in the MGT3660 International Business class heard from someone who has had a bit of experience in this arena.

Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue presented a lecture to the class and answered questions, touting the future Tech graduates as those who excel both in the international arena and business acumen. "You are in a very unique place," he said. "I find Georgia Tech graduates in places of importance throughout the entire world."

Perdue spoke on the importance of conducting business globally, saying that his job as governor broadened his perspective into the global business arena. He told the class that the summer of 1996 served as the catalyst for attracting international businesses, both here and abroad. "The Olympics illuminated Georgia and Atlanta to the world, but it also opened Georgians' eyes to the rest of the world."

He cited the state's strategic advantages, such as its lower tax structure and the location of the Savannah and Brunswick ports, as reasons for global companies to seek out Georgia as a place to conduct business. "It's important for Georgia to be economically successful," he said. "A strong economy boosts [the state's] education, safety, and overall prosperity and wealth creation." Perdue spent about an hour speaking and answering students' questions.

When asked what the state does that is unique to attract global businesses, Perdue said the state continues to fund 10 international offices while similar offices in other states are closing. Georgia also has a chief of Protocol position and an International Business Liaison.

Chris Young, a Tech alumnus who serves as both the chief of Protocol and director of International Affairs for the state of Georgia, is teaching the core class for the first time this semester.