Who inspired you to enter public service?

As a Baby Boomer growing up in the 1960s, I remember the words of President John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country” serving as a call to public service. Public service was seen as a force for positive change and emphasized its potential to shape a better world.

Simultaneously, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. called on our political leaders to dismantle Jim Crow, end discrimination, and empower ordinary people through the protection of voting rights. Governmental entities at federal, state, and local levels were challenged to be the vehicles for protecting and promoting the rights of minorities, the marginalized, and the poor. Public service again was a way to contribute and make the world a better place to live.

What is your favorite class you have ever taken and why?

I have had several wonderful teachers and professors during my time at school, ranging from Mr. Segal, who kindled a love for mathematics, to Mrs. Bach, who excited a love for music—but unfortunately not any real talent for it. I took so many unforgettable classes! At the collegiate level, two classes will always bring fond memories. I took an astronomy class, and the professor made studying space, the universe, galaxies, and stars fascinating. It’s a class that I still remember 50 years later. I also remember taking an anthropology class with a professor who had lived in South America among the Yanomami Indians, the largest isolated tribe in South America.

He brought his lived experiences to the classroom, making for exciting and engaging conversations.

My favorite graduate class was taught by one of the foundation scholars in public finance Martin Feldstein. He inspired a whole generation of young scholars who went on the follow in his footsteps at the Council of Economic Advisors for both Democratic and Republican administrations. At the time I took the class he was the chief economic advisor to President Ronald Reagan. He was a captivating man who encouraged critical thinking and inspired us to use data to examine the world. While I didn’t always agree with his policy perspectives, he made me a better economist.

What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing public policy or public administration as a career?

Public administration can be enormously rewarding. The vast majority of people who make public policy a career are deeply committed to it and sincerely want to do good work that makes a difference. If you have a passion and equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to succeed, there is plenty of room to make a difference.

Overall, the most satisfying part of working in public administration is being part of a team of individuals committed to a common goal. Tactics and policies may vary but whether you’re advancing health care, transportation, education or rural housing, others walk alongside you who share your passion and aim to serve the public.

I’d be remiss, however, if I didn’t say that public policy today is not for the faint of heart. Public policy in our democracy is intertwined with our political process which is less focused on finding answers and more focused on scoring points or destroying one’s opponents. So, I would caution that having a bit of thick skin and a passion to serve are essential.

What area of public policy interests you the most and why?

As a labor economist, studying the intricacies of the labor market, hiring practices and structures in compensation and benefits has always been a genuine passion.

Understanding the workings of the economy and how we can make it work better for more people has been central to my work as an economist. Labor policy, macroeconomic policy, economic development policy are critically important for our society and our world.

As I mentioned, part of the reason I went into economics as a field is to make a difference in people's lives. I’m pleased that in my current role as president of Western Michigan University, we place a heavy emphasis on making a difference in our students, their families and our communities’ lives. We challenge each Bronco to pursue their purpose to make a difference in their communities as part of leading meaningful lives.

What is your favorite cuisine?

I enjoy Italian cuisine. Veal scallopini is a particular favorite of mine.

What is your favorite hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time?

I have a passion for reading, and the summer season is the perfect time for boating on Lake Michigan. I’m also an avid golfer, but I have found that boating doesn’t have the same frustration levels that are associated with golf.

Who in your life has been an influential mentor or inspiration for you?

My most influential boss and the person who served as an inspiration and mentor is Alexis Herman, who served as U.S. Secretary of Labor to President Bill Clinton. She provided me with invaluable guidance and experience solving critical problems.

Likewise, she presented wonderful opportunities at the federal level that allowed me to flourish as a young economist. As a result, leadership positions and a highly fulfilling career trajectory opened up for me, and I cannot thank her enough.

On a more personal note, my ultimate hero in life has always been my dad. Words cannot explain the profound impact he had on my life. The values he instilled, such as integrity and responsibility, have served me well, and his influence will continue to serve as a guiding light.

What was your dream job as a child?

Becoming a pilot is a dream I cherished as a youngster; however, my eyesight prevented me from pursuing a career in aviation. But I was thrilled when I finally had the opportunity to obtain my pilot’s license as an adult. While I would have loved to be a pilot traveling the globe, educating future generations of students has been just as rewarding.