The Social Economic Council (in Dutch: " Sociaal Economische Raad", hereinafter referred to as SER) held it’s first annual symposium entitled: "Innovate or deteriorate"- Corporate Social Responsibility as the way forward for Sint Maarten, on Wednesday, June 12th 2013 at Westin.
The theme of this symposium will address the question how businesses, especially in the dominant tourism industry, can use their innovative strength to broaden their role in society and meet the challenges posed by our unbalanced growth. The concept of "Corporate Social Responsibility" played a central role in this debate.
Professor Dr. Ryan R. Peterson, PhD, MSc. Professor of Innovation Economics, Research Chair on Sustainable Islands at the University of Aruba delivered the keynote address.
Following his key note address, a one hour panel discussion followed, enabling the guests to pose their questions/ concerns on reaching a higher level of Corporate Social Responsibility on Sint Maarten and allowing our panelists to share their ideas on this topic.
The panel consist of SER Chairman René A. Richardson and the keynote speaker Prof. Dr. Ryan R. Peterson, Ms. Sharmaine Olivacce, Mark Mingo, CEO of the harbor group of companies, and Ms. Karen Hana director of SHTA an experienced hospitality manager.
Master of ceremonies for the symposium was Mr. Cedric Peterson.
Acting Governor of St.Maarten Mr. Reynold Groeneveldt opened the symposium
Prime Minister of St.Maarten Mrs. Sarah Wescott-Williams made introductory statements
SER Chairman Mr. Rene Richardson
Keynote Speaker Professor Dr. Ryan Peterson
