"Can or should business leaders make public policy?" will be the topic of the 2003 Berry College Executive Round Table fall dinner on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Coosa Country Club.

Natalie M. Davis, professor of political science at Birmingham-Southern College and a frequent political commentator, is the featured speaker.

She will discuss business leadership’s impact on the public policy process, focusing on Alabama’s recently defeated tax and accountability package. She will discuss the role business played in shaping the package and the financial backing it provided to sell it to voters.

The evening will begin with networking, followed by dinner and Davis’ presentation.

Dinner discussion at each table will center on various questions regarding business in public policymaking, including a look at what role local businesses played in pursuing the SPLOST to bring the Class A Braves to Rome.

The public is invited to attend the dinner program on a space-available basis. Cost is $30 per person. Registration, including payment, is required by Oct. 21. Table sponsorship also is available. For more information or to register, e-mail ert@campbell.berry.edu or call Julie Bumpus at 238-5835.

Davis holds a doctorate in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She comments on Alabama and Southern politics for CNN and Alabama Public Television.

The Executive Round Table originated at Georgia Tech in 1956. Berry College formed the second chapter in 1989. The group’s purpose is to encourage and help develop students who display character and leadership. Membership includes a balance of students, faculty and industry/business executives.