by Rose Carter

Money and power. Power and money. Often the two exist hand-in-hand, but tonight, Michael Giorgione, business leader and Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy (Ret.), will lead a discussion that considers the choice between the two. The presentation and discussion begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Grandfather Clock Lounge in Atherton Hall. The event is free and open to the public.

Giorgione’s presentation about money and power, how the two intertwine and when they are independent, will provoke questions, comments and introspect. He raises questions regarding the selection of money or power, if the absence of money has a power of its own, and if individuals believe they could handle unlimited wealth. Giorgione will also include commentary on the elements of power and leadership.

A guest lecturer in Penn State’s College of Engineering Leadership program, the Presidential Leadership Academy and Smeal College of Business’ Sapphire Program, Giorgione also volunteers his time to work with World Campus and expanding its programs, especially those involving military veterans and their families.

Giorgione retired from the U.S. Navy’s Civil Engineer Corps after 29 years of service. After retirement, he entered private industry and in 2011 founded Leading Leaders, a leadership development and executive coaching firm. His experiences, observations and instruction help leaders grow personally and professionally with the main mission of affecting their performance and their company’s value.

The 1981 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Giorgione has earned several personal decorations including the Legion of Merit, Navy Commendation Medal and Joint Service Achievement Medal. He was presented with the Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal twice and is a five-time recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal. The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, native earned his master’s degree in civil engineering from Penn State and holds business certificates from Duke University and the University of North Carolina.

Giorgione’s discussion is another event in the 2015 “Shaping the Future: The Power of Money” series with the purpose of engaging the Penn State community in a discussion and programming focused on global issues and leadership scenarios in the next decade. More information on upcoming Future Summit events can be found at http://futuresummit.psu.edu.