Economic Development :: Lang Center for Civic & Social Responsibility

Economic Development

Economic development is an umbrella term that involves fostering the economic conditions that bring people a certain level of material comfort and basic human dignity. Traditionally, economic development was thought to be propelled by the industrial revolution and technology boom. This introduced the shift from handmade to machine-made industry that spurred productivity and raised standards of living for some, but many still live in conditions of poverty. The issues are continually challenging and numerous, and they require creative, diverse solutions. How can we reimagine “development” to achieve a society where all can not only live with dignity, but also have the opportunity to flourish? Additionally, how can social innovation, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and alternative economics improve quality of life and drive social equity?

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Lang Center Associates

Tammy Pham '24

Key Faculty & Staff

Denise Crossan, Director of Community & Strategic Initiatives and the Social Innovation Lab
Katie Clark, Director of the Center of Innovation & Leadership
Stephen O’Connell, Gil and Frank Mustin Professor of Economics
Ellen Magenheim, Professor of Economics, Health Economics & Policy specialist
Amanda Bayer, Professor of Economics
Syon Bhanot, Assistant Professor of Economics, Behavioral & Public Economist
Jennifer Peck, Assistant Professor of Economics, Environmental Economist