SANDPOINT — Regional experts will offer their insights on economic development as well as ways to strengthen and create partnerships between the business community and the University of Idaho.

University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene Associate Vice President/CEO Charles Buck, and Interim Dean of the University of Idaho College of Business and Economics, Mario Reyes, will briefly address the crowd and will be available for one-on-one discussion at the upcoming Idaho Athletics and College of Business and Economics Social in Sandpoint.

The event is set for Thursday, March 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Pend d’Oreille Winery, 220 Cedar St.

Vandal alumni, friends and the public are invited to attend. No RSVP is required.

Buck and Reyes hope to build new and strengthen existing partnerships between the University of Idaho and the business community, ultimately, to promote regional economic development.

Reyes, College of Business and Economics interim dean and a professor of finance, led the development and delivery of the EMBA program in northern Idaho. Reyes’ expertise includes investment management and strategic financial management.

Buck heads the University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene and directs the University’s Research Park at Post Falls, overseeing the Laboratory for Applied  Science Research (LASR) projects and building partnerships with industry. He is a biomedical research scientist whose work in the private sector includes service as Chief Scientific Officer for a biomedical start-up company. His also has extensive experience in technology transfer.

“We will be delighted to meet Vandal alumni and friends of the University, and to answer any questions about our education, research and community and business partnerships and initiatives in northern Idaho,” said Buck. “

The event includes hosted hors d’oeuvres and first beverage.

Information: Denise Chaffins (208) 885-6478