Collin County Business Alliance (CCBA) celebrated its 7th anniversary with a luncheon showcasing Texas innovation experts discussing new developments in North Texas as it relates to CCBA’s three areas of focus of water, education and transportation. The panelists were Steven Duong, associate vice president of design + planning at AECOM, Brooke Paup, board member, Texas Water Development Board, Jennifer Sanders, president, Dallas Innovation Alliance, Michael Sorrell, president, Paul Quinn College with Paul O’Donnell, business editor, The Dallas Morning News serving as moderator. In the discussion, all were encouraged to  make a difference in our community.

Recently, Collin County has seen some of the strongest growth in the country with rapid corporate relocations and expansions. The luncheon celebrated CCBA’s efforts to help ensure our county remains a successful community through its mission “Envisioning tomorrow, inspiring action today.”

“We have some amazing businesses in Collin County, and each business plays a critical role in transforming our community - especially in an ever-changing, technologically driven economy.” - Sanjiv Yajnik

Multiple technological revolutions that are changing the game today was the focus of a special conversation featuring Fareed Zakaria, host of CNN’s Fareed Zakaria GPS with Sanjiv Yajnik, CCBA chairman and president, Financial Services, Capital One.

“A lot of what AI can do is the routine function. It will always need human assistance. Your value add will come from that extra dimension.” – Fareed Zakaria

Recognizing service to our county is a tradition of the anniversary celebration. CCBA honored District President of Collin College Dr. Neil Matkin with the Collin County Leadership Award for his commitment to North Texas.

Read more at Dallas Business Journal, Plano Profile, The Dallas Morning News, Dallas Innovates newsletter and Collin College News.