In July 2022, the Economics Department joined Kummer College, initiating a crucial revision of its mission. The revised mission is to educate students through distinct, market-relevant academic programs that are agile in responding to industry changes. We amplify the impact of education by offering a supportive curriculum for a STEM-focused Technology University and foster engagement through meaningful interdisciplinary collaborations in degree programs and innovative experiential-learning projects based on industry needs.

At the core of our program-building approach are innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry alignment. Since joining the University in July 2022, we have been swiftly developing forward-thinking programs that anticipate and meet the evolving needs of both students and industry.

During our first year in college, we completed a comprehensive revamp of our undergraduate curriculum, creating a STEM-designated BS Economics program with three industry-focused areas—Decision Data Analytics, Energy Economics, and Financial Economics & Technology—aligned with our students’ career aspirations.

Since then, we have actively collaborated with industry partners to develop a dynamic graduate program, equipping students to make informed, strategic decisions that drive community and economic development not only in Missouri and the Midwest but across the United States and beyond.

In fall 2025, we launched the first-of-its-kind MS in Economics and Innovation (MEI) program, featuring an industry-driven, cutting-edge curriculum in innovation, energy and sustainability. The program prepares students—particularly engineers and those with STEM backgrounds—to integrate interconnected decision-making in technical and economic viability necessary for innovations and ventures to succeed in the market. As MEI Program Director, I remain committed to ensuring that S&T’s Economics graduate programs advance regional economic growth and shape Missouri’s future workforce in energy and innovation, while also empowering our students to take leadership roles in high-impact careers.

Stay tuned for updates as we continue to expand hands-on, experiential learning opportunities with industry professionals, positioning our students for career success.

Sincerely,