In an effort to contribute to what President Donald Gerth has named “The Year of Unity,” the College of Business Administration will host a seminar on Tuesday, March 13 in the University Union Ballroom.

The seminar, titled “Working in a Multicultural Environment,” will address the modern business climate, which is characterized by the combination of global business and changing demographics. The seminar is ideal for any senior preparing to enter the workforce following graduation.

The seminar is scheduled to begin with a presentation by Marilyn Edling, vice president and general manager of North America enterprise systems at Hewlett-Packard. Following her presentation will be a panel discussion by representatives from the local Arab-American Chamber of Commerce, Asian Pacific Islander Chamber of Commerce, Iranian-American Chamber of Commerce, Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce, Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.

Felicenne Ramey, dean of the College of Business Administration, said that the idea for the seminar came from her faculty.

“We felt it was a good way to connect to the business community,” Ramey said.

Personal experiences that Edling is expected to cover are working in a diverse environment and about coming to Hewlett-Packard from a workplace that was not very diverse.

“Hewlett-Packard recognizes the value of diversity,” Edling said. “Diversity engenders more creativity, which is essential in high-tech.”

Diversity also effects how Hewlett-Packard connects with consumers, Edling said.

“In a diverse economy, it?s beneficial to have a diverse workforce,” she said. “It becomes a feeder, giving you access to pools of talent you wouldn?t have had access to otherwise.”

Following Edling?s presentation, panelists from each of the six chambers of commerce will speak on the importance of multiculturalism in the workplace. Afterward, the panel will open up to the audience and respond to any questions or comments.

The evening will close with a reception where refreshments will be provided. The seminar is free and will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, contact the College of Business Administration at 278-6578, or pick up a flyer at their office in Tahoe Hall, Room 1010.