Ball State University President Jo Ann M. Gora will speak Feb. 1 about technology in education and the role of universities in economic development.

Gora will be the keynote speaker for the monthly meeting sponsored by Women and High Tech. The event, free and open to the public, is from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Ball State Alumni Center, 2800 W. Bethel Ave.

The president will discuss how Ball State builds better communities through quality of life enhancements, helps existing businesses thrive, and grows new businesses through incubation and a campus-wide culture of creativity and entrepreneurship. Gora also will discuss her own career path and address issues of women in leadership and the challenges women face in their careers.

Women and Hi Tech is an organization of women and men whose goal is to attract, develop, retain, support and promote women who are interested in technology through networking, mentoring, education and professional development.

More information about the organization may be found at their Web site or by contacting Jeffrey Litten at (765) 285-5083.