There is an important but under-recognized resource for the business community in Dallas. It is the William J. O’Neil Center for Global Markets and Freedom, based on the campus of Southern Methodist University.
The center was founded and funded by Bill and Fay O’Neil in 2008. Its mission is “to study the impact of competitive market forces on freedom and prosperity in the global economy.” It offers “training for today’s forward-looking individuals who recognize the importance of globalization in changing the business environment in which we are all operating.”
The center frequently produces publications on these issues, as well as an annual half-day program featuring outstanding conservative thinkers from around the United States. I have been privileged to attend the last two programs as a guest of my friend Gary Huselton. Speakers have included Drs. Thomas Sowell and Walter Williams; John Mackey, co-CEO of Whole Food Market; and several distinguished business professors from leading universities. All of the presentations have been interesting, lively, and enlightening.
The center is led by W. Michael Cox, PhD. Mr. Cox joined the center after serving as the chief economist for the Dallas Federal Reserve.
For those who believe that government is the answer, the McNeil Center is not for them. Those who believe that capitalism is an enormously powerful force that benefits everyone will appreciate the work of the center. More information may be found here.
Steve Crosson is chairman and CEO of Crosson Dannis Inc., which provides real estate appraisal and consultation services. He also serves as chairman and editor in chief of The Appraiser Journal.
