Fred Smith, Founder/CEO of FedEx - Lecture Series

8th Annual Paul W. Barret, Jr. School of Banking Lecture Series Event

The 8th Annual Barret Lecture Series Event this year featured Fred Smith, Founder/CEO of FedEx, on May 27, 2010.

His lecture, "Industry and Finance: Back to the Future," focused on the unsustainable growth in financial activities in the U.S. as a percentage of our economy since 1980, and the diminishment of industry; along with recommendations to address this imbalance.

Past Lecture Series Speakers:

Paul W. Barret, Jr. was a Shelby County, Tennessee banker, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. An endowment from his estate has allowed the School to enhance its educational program and to recognize Mr. Barret's lasting contributions to the community by providing an annual lecture by a distinguished speaker for students, faculty, regents and invited guests from the Mid-South region.

Paul W. Barret, Jr. School of Banking has offered excellent educational opportunities for those in financial services careers since it was established in 1972 by a group of Memphis bankers. Originally named Memphis School of Banking, it became Mid South School of Banking in 1979 to reflect its regional expansion. In 2001, Mid South School of Banking became Paul W. Barret, Jr. School of Banking in honor of Mr. Barret and his achievements in the profession.