Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/63810
From Editors the Global Community On January 1, 2002, the European Union introduced its new currency, the much-heralded euro. Since then, citizens of Ireland, Portugal, Spain, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Finland, Germany, Austria, Italy, and Greece have been getting used to their new common currency, while still using their old, familiar currencies in a two- month transition period. But as ofMarch 1, the euro will be the only money chang- ing hands in these 12 countries. The last time that European countries shared a sin- gle currency was at the end of the eighth century, in the days of the Roman Empire. Here in the 21st century, the European Union sees in the euro a chance to unify our exploration of global issues. Goings points out that there are new lessons to be learned, lessons that business schools not only must impart to students, but also must employ themselves to succeed and lead in a global economy. More and more often, in a global environment, a problem that affects one, affects world into a more intimate environment, for better or worse. Our very perceptions of the world have changed. At one time, even a phone call from Europe to the United States or from the United States to Asia was considered a significant event. Today, communication, interaction, and travel between countries are increasingly perceived as routine. Our cover interview with Rick Goings, CEO of Tupperware Inc., introduces all. Not surprisingly, we've made problems affecting management education on a global scale, such as the Ph.D. shortage and the decline in enrollment in accounting programs, points of focus in this issue. In addition, we look at schools that are working together to find international solutions through CIBER, Centers for International Business Education and Research. Connections, alliances, partnerships—all are part of the new nomencla- ture of management education, and they promise to play a large part in tackling difficult problems and keeping our "global village" running smoothly. Also the result of a collaborative effort, the euro symbolizes an interconnectedness between countries, businesses, and individuals that is becoming more a fact of life. It also represents the inevitability of progress, experiment, and change. And as the key suppliers of talent to global business, business schools not only will help to navigate this era of change, but also, lead the way.■z a collective of countries and simplify interactions between them. As one Italian citi- zen told a reporter for The New York Times, the new euro gives her a "sense of belonging to a European Union" and promises to create a "big European country." As it has affected the European region, globalization also has transformed the 4 BizEd MARCH/APRIL 2002 BILL BASCOM