Arizona Mexico Commission’s Summer Plenary Session

Phoenix, AZ, June 20-21, 2008

The Arizona Mexico Commission (AMC) held its annual Summer Plenary Session in June, uniting approximately 500 public and private sector business leaders, community leaders, legislators, and policy experts.
This year’s plenary focused on expanding high technology border security, improving and coordinating Arizona’s infrastructure, developing international cooperation to attract investments to the region, and educating the border region regarding issues leading to healthy and sustainable lifestyles.

NACTS coordinated Arizona State University’s participation at the plenary, while several ASU faculty presented at various committees. NACTS director Rick Van Schoik gave a presentation on climate change at the environment committee meeting. Carlos G. Vélez-Ibáñez, chair of Transborder Chicano/a Latino/a Studies, spoke before the education committee on his department’s innovative programs. Another ASU professor, Mike Pasqualetti,spoke before the watercommittee.

Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano and Sonora Governor Eduardo Bours Castelo signed eight agreements intended to increase cooperation between Arizona and Sonora. The Governors also met with a variety of plenary participants, including NACTS Director Rick Van Schoik.

The following ASU units were represented at the plenary:
• Office of the Vice President for Global Engagement
• Global Institute of Sustainability
• School of Sustainability
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• National Center of Excellence @ GIOS
• Transborder Chicano/a and Latino/a Studies
• American English and Culture Program
• Decision Theater
• School of Engineering
• College of Nursing and Healthcare Innovation

 View the Plenary Agenda.

 Read the 2008 AMC Summer Plenary Session review.