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The University of Washington Department of Economics is proud to recognize Matthew Bannick as its 2026 Distinguished Alumnus, an honor that reflects both an extraordinary professional journey and a deep commitment to using economic thinking to drive meaningful change. From his time as a student at UW to leadership roles spanning global business, diplomacy, and philanthropy, Bannick has consistently drawn on the discipline of economics as a foundation for thoughtful leadership and decision-…
We are grateful to count Steven Manson as both an alumnus and a valued member of the University of Washington economics community. Over the past decade, Manson has worked as a portfolio manager for a Singapore-based single-family office, helping guide investments across private equity, venture capital, private credit, hedge funds, real estate, and professional sports teams. His work reflects the global reach of economics and the many paths UW graduates pursue, paths that continue to be…
Economics major and UW track and field (cross country) student-athlete Gioana Lopizzo is participating in the Economics Undergraduate Mentorship Program as part of her academic and professional development at UW. Having previously benefited from mentorship, Gioana applied to the program to gain guidance as she prepares for internships and future career opportunities in economics. Balancing a demanding training schedule with coursework has shaped her approach to professional planning,…
The Department of Economics is pleased to announce the establishment of the G. Dennis Shine Endowed Fund in Economics, a generous new gift that will provide vital, broad-based support for our students. This endowed fund reflects a deep commitment to expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities and strengthening the student experience at UW.The G. Dennis Shine Endowed Fund in Economics will offer flexible support for undergraduate students, including assistance with books, supplies…
We are pleased to announce that Teaching Professor Melissa Knox of the Department of Economics is a co-author of a recent study examining the effects of the federal Community Eligibility Provision (universal free school meals), which found that implementation in over 1,000 schools and 155,000+ students was associated with a reduction in high-blood-pressure prevalence among students. The findings underscore important connections between school-meal policy, nutrition, and student health. For full…
The UW Department of Economics was honored to host Professor James A. Robinson, 2024 Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences and University Professor at the University of Chicago, as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Milliman Lecture on October 7, 2025. Professor Robinson, renowned for his pioneering research on how political and economic institutions shape long-term prosperity, delivered an engaging and insightful lecture that offered valuable perspectives on his latest work and its global impact.…
The Department of Economics Undergraduate Mentorship Program is now accepting submissions for mentors for the 2025–2026 academic year. This program connects alumni and professionals with undergraduate economics students to provide guidance, share career insights, and support students as they prepare for life after UW.If you are interested in serving as a mentor, please submit your application at https://huskylanding.uw.edu/hub/huskylanding/programs/economics-undergraduate-mentorship-…
Teaching Professor Melissa Knox of the Department of Economics recently collaborated on research evaluating the City of Seattle’s Fresh Bucks program, which provides low-income households with monthly stipends to purchase fruits and vegetables. The study found that participants experienced improved food security and increased fruit and vegetable consumption. For full details and insights, please read the article here: https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/uw-study-shows-how-a-seattle-…
The UW Department of Economics is pleased to announce that the 2025 Milliman Lecture will take place on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. We are honored to welcome Professor James Robinson from the University of Chicago as this year’s keynote speaker. Professor Robinson, the 2024 Nobel Laureate, is renowned for his groundbreaking research on political and economic development. The lecture will offer valuable insights into his latest work and its global impact. Please register using this link…
On Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, the Department of Economics honored our undergraduate and PhD degree recipients, in a spectacular occasion, at the Husky Union Building Ballroom, at the University of Washington.
The festivities were presided over by Chair Eric Zivot, and the Department of Economics Faculty.
Many thanks to Dr. Marianne Page – Co-Director of the Center for Poverty & Inequality Research at the University of California-Davis – who delivered an inspiring keynote address. Dr.…
