The Online Reflector

Republican U.S. Rep. for Indiana’s Fourth Congressional District Todd Rokita lectured on campus March 21 as a guest of the Student Business Leadership Academy (SBLA).

Republican Congressman Todd Rokita speaks on U.S. economic issues at an event hosted by the Student Business Leadership Academy on March 21 in UIndy Hall. Photo by Jacki Dillman.

In his talk, Rokita offered his insight into the current U.S. economic situation, highlighting spending as well as the national debt.

“This isn’t a partisan speech, because this isn’t a partisan issue,” Rokita said. “It’s an American issue.”

Rokita, who previously served as the Indiana Secretary of State, was the youngest person ever to hold that office. He has visited and spoken at the University of Indianapolis campus several times. This event, however, was the first time that Rokita has spoken on the UIndy campus after winning his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Two things that I think really describe him [Rokita] are that he is very concerned about fiscal well being,” said Associate Professor of Finance Matt Will. “And he is not a traditional politician.”

The event garnered an audience of 291 attendees and was the largest event SBLA has ever coordinated. According to SBLA President Jennifer Simac, only 180 were expected, but the group was ecstatic about the turnout.

“We had to scramble the day of the event to accommodate for the audience,” Simac said. “We had to ask for additional rooms and chairs, but we were pleased with the interest and turnout.”

Prior to beginning his talk, Rokita informed the audience that this would be the first time he ever made that particular presentation. He went on to say that 42 cents of every dollar spent by the United States government is borrowed and, after July 26, all money spent will be borrowed.

“I don’t mean to scare anybody,” Rokita said. “I just want to focus us.”

Simac explained that Rokita strayed a little from the planned topic of discussion, his journey to political office, but felt that the topic was specific and eye-opening.

“Even though it had a negative tone, it was a necessary topic,” Simac said.

The event was preceded by a reception for the SBLA officers. Will explained that the School of Business focuses on networking as a key to success and that the reception with Rokita was a perfect opportunity to network. SBLA has invited several leaders in business to speak on campus to help promote these networking opportunities and will host a networking fair on April 21. Students must be invited in order to attend.