We at Solomon McCown and Company aim to influence the critical discussions that impact our clients and their interests. We do that in a number of ways including originating debate on a host of lively, original topics across industries in our "SM& Presents" panel series. These panels bring together some of the most well known and respected leaders in the region in a public forum for timely and topical discussion that challenges conventional thinking.

“Rising in a Down Economy”
November 12, 2009

More than 150 people gathered at the Boston Harbor Hotel on November 12 for “Rising in a Down Economy,” a panel discussion hosted by Solomon McCown & Co. and Goulston & Storrs. It was the 12th SM& Presents panel and it attracted executives from real estate, architecture and construction, health care, mission-focused organizations and higher education.

The discussion focused on innovations that are helping corporations and non-profits navigate these challenging economic times. The panelists included: Bennie DiNardo, deputy managing editor for Multimedia, The Boston Globe; Ralph Fuccillo, president, DentaQuest Foundation; Ken Hubbard, executive vice president, Hines; and our very own Ashley McCown, president of SM&. The panelists agreed that innovation is essential to create a sustainable organization and a business model that will survive long past the current downturn. Each shared examples of how innovation has changed their organizations and their industries—whether it’s delivering content, a new building or a new mission. Matthew Kiefer, director, Goulston & Storrs kept the dialogue moving as moderator.

Ralph Fuccillo noted that the DentaQuest Foundation has adapted a new strategy for attacking our nation’s oral health problems. The Foundation went from funding individual community health centers for oral health programs to providing funding for more systemic and sustainable solutions that address the causes of, and provide solutions to, our country’s oral health problems.

At Boston.com, a new approach to sharing the news by focusing on what the Boston Globe does well (rather than trying to be “everything to everyone”) has increased web traffic significantly, making it the 6th largest newspaper website in the country. The introduction of other mediums, including video and twitter has also helped the Globe have greater relevance in the 24/7 news marketplace.

For Hines, an international real estate firm, a commitment to sustainability has helped the company better integrate green ideas and best practices into their development approach. Starting internally by asking employees to help “green the office” with the Hines Go! Program, the firm immediately began seeing returns in energy savings. As an added bonus, tenants in Hines’ buildings wanted in on the action – and now the Hines Go! Award graces the offices of individuals from many different companies.

Ashley McCown talked about how Solomon McCown’s clients are involving the agency early in the decision making process about how and when to communicate news about change—whether positive or difficult— because how organizations involve and inform employees and engage shareholders and stakeholders is essential to whether or not their evolution is successful.

If you missed the panel, please read our whitepaper summarizing the key points from the discussion. You can also follow us on Twitter and check out our blog, Mission Recognition.

Panelists left to right: Matthew Kiefer, director, Goulston & Storrs; Bennie DiNardo, deputy managing editor for Multimedia, The Boston Globe; Kenneth Hubbard, executive vice president, Hines; Helene Solomon, CEO, Solomon McCown & Co.; Ralph Fuccillo, president, DentaQuest Foundation; Ashley McCown, president, Solomon McCown & Co.