Connect high-tech: Southeastern Louisiana University Alumni Association launched a new networking platform—called “Southeastern Connect”—to help graduates stay in touch, according to a university news release. Alumni can register at SoutheasternConnect.org and set up a profile. From there they can offer advice to younger graduates, help each other snag jobs, or offer internships. The site allows alumni to connect in groups based on fields of work or geography as well as share photos and plan events. Read the full release here.
Doing alright: The number of Americans who report they’re doing “at least okay” financially rose during President Donald Trump’s first year in office, according to Federal Reserve data published on Tuesday. The U.S. central bank said 74 percent of U.S. adults said their finances were at least okay in 2017, four percentage points higher than in 2016. The improvement was strongest in lower-income households, Reuters reports. The data was based on an annual Federal Reserve survey of 12,246. Even though more felt “okay,” about two in five adults surveyed reported they faced a high likelihood of material hardship, such as an inability to afford sufficient food, medical treatment, housing or utilities. Read the story.
Railroad crossing: General Electric is merging its train engine division with railroad equipment maker Wabtec in a deal worth about $11 billion, The Associated Press reports. In the deal announced Monday, Wabtec CEO Raymond Betler will lead the combined company and General Electric will get $2.9 billion in cash. The deal is expected to close early next year, at which time GE plans to split off the company, essentially giving Wabtec shareholders ownership, with 49.9 percent of the new company. GE shareholders will hold a 40.2 percent stake and GE will own 9.9 percent. The combined company will have more than 23,000 locomotives globally. Read the full story.
