Billy Morris Sees a Bright Future for the International University of Monaco

Billy Morris, chairman of American media powerhouse Morris Communications, visited the Principality of Monaco to address the International University of Monaco. Journalist and IUM Executive MBA representative Tracy Mattes interviewed Mr. Morris about his interest in the schools fast growing International MBA program.

November 10, 2004 -- Monaco is one of the most exciting markets in the World. I can think of no better place for International students to come and study business. These were the words of Billy Morris, chairman of American Media Powerhouse Morris Communications, as he addressed MBA students from around the globe studying at the International University of Monaco (IUM). Less than five years old, IUMs fast growing International MBA program is quickly climbing the lists, ranking among the top 100 Business schools in the world for the second year in a row by the Economist.

Morris, who owns Monaco based Riviera Radio, says he was impressed with the young school saying its definitely on the right track, citing historical precedent in American Universities and the need for creative tension and competition to produce great results. Mr. Morris has served on five education boards throughout his career as an Industry leader. He sees his continued involvement in the advancement of Education as an important way of giving something back. Morris talked in detail of what it takes to make a great program. In addition to great content, in order to have a great school you need two essential ingredients: great students and a great faculty. One draws to the other in the same way great athletes draw to great coaches.

According to rankings, IUM is on the right track. The Economist gave IUM the number one world ranking on student diversity. And the faculty is made up of an assembly of internationally recognized academic talent, with years of experience in various business industries.

One of IUMs greatest strengths is its location said Morris. Monaco is located on the Mediterranean Sea and at the foot of the Southern Alps and has the reputation of being a global business center. IUM has the power to pull great students and educators from all corners of the globe to this beautiful part of the world.

Mr. Morris shared his personal views about how education and free markets create industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs around the world. You have to have the vision to look beyond horizons and the courage to put it all on the line and go after your goals. Empires were not built by the timid and frontiers were not crossed by those without courage. Morris cited the need for free markets in order to spawn this type of success globally. Mankind flourishes best in Free Societies. We need to create an environment to encourage spirits to soar.

Mr. Morris plans to return to IUM on future business trips to the Principality of Monaco. Morris Communications' mid-market media empire -- which stretches across the United States and to Europe -- includes some 60 daily, non-daily, and free community newspapers; more than 30 radio stations; two radio networks; 25 magazines and specialty publications; 27 tourist publications; and a book publisher; as well as online services, outdoor advertising, and printing and marketing operations.
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