On April 24th, 2019, the Visiting Committee (VC) held their last meeting of the 2018-2019 academic year. Members of the VC, students from the Economics Undergraduate Board (EUB), and faculty members attended the meeting.
Assistant Professor Yuya Takahashi, our most recent hire, gave the keynote address, presenting his research on applying game theory to declining industries. The VC also welcomed its newest members, Jim McIntire, who serves on the Board of Directors for Sustainability Accounting Standards Board Foundation, and as a Senior Advisor for Star Mountain Capital. Jim served as the Washington State Treasurer from 2008 to 2017.
The VC was also delighted to present Kerry Kahl with the Laureate Vase, a special honor given to the University’s highest circle of donors. Kerry has been active in many departments throughout his time at the University, so we were particularly honored to be selected as the department to present him with this gift.
Students from the EUB presented the results of the annual undergraduate survey. This allows for students, alumni, and faculty to discuss the real needs of the department, and brainstorm how those needs can be address with the resources we have available.
In addition, students presented their work surrounding the Diversity and Inclusion Grant received by the Women in Economics. This grant allowed students to re-do the Economist Biography wall at the entrance to our department. Prior to the grant, the wall featured a group of similarly minded individuals. Now, the wall features economists who are diverse in background, thought, and appearance.
Last was a presentation about the first ever Economics Career fair, which was held in January of 2019. The Fair was a rousing success, with over 200 students in attendance and 14 companies represented, thanks in large part to the connections from the VC. The EUB will partner with the VC to plan an annual Career Fair going forward, with a goal to hold a fair each fall quarter.