Illinois State University’s Undergraduate Women in Economics (UWE) joined others in April to attend the annual Women in Economics Symposium.
Organized by the St. Louis Fed, the symposium started in 2018 with the launch of the Women in Economics podcast series. The initiative is designed to connect young women with accomplished women in economics who can share their career journeys. “This year’s theme was the career paths of women in the field of economics, and our students learned a great deal about the profession and future opportunities,” said Professor of Economics Susan Chen, who advises UWE.
Featured presenters for the symposium included Dr. Adrianna Kugler, from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, and Dr. Oksana Leukhina, economic policy advisor at the St. Louis Fed.
UWE President Abby Black-Mishaan, a sophomore managerial economics major, found the symposium insightful and a great way to connect with other economists. “Seeing other women in economics succeed despite their struggles gives me the confidence to continue in this field,” said Black-Mishaan.
Other students expressed their excitement for the experience. New UWE member Ryley Clarke, a sophomore with a dual major in economics and statistics, also attended. Reflecting on the trip, she commented that the trip exceeded her expectations and solidified her decision to continue her economics journey. She added, “Seeing the community of women in this field was empowering, to say the least. I would definitely go again!”
Maya Thompson, a senior in the program, said the trip was inspiring and encouraging. She came to appreciate more about her major because it provided the foundation for how the world operates. “My favorite part was learning about the different opportunities I, as an African American undergraduate econ student, have that will allow me the chance to seek mentorship,” said Thompson. Echoing her enthusiasm, Ruby Morr, a first-year graduate student, shared that the trip was very special to her personally. As a dedicated advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, Morr “really appreciated the opportunity to go be with like-minded people who are just like me in an industry that doesn’t always give us the spotlight.” She plans to attend the symposium in the future.
Chen said the UWE plans to make the journey to the free symposium an annual event. “We welcome new members to join and attend the event in 2025. It is a great opportunity for students to learn how studying economic principles can provide tools to tackle real-life problems,” said Chen.
UWE is dedicated to increasing diversity and representation in economics and fostering a sense of inclusion across the broader community of scholars. Students are invited to join the organization regardless of their experience with economics. This group is inclusive; female and male students are invited to participate. Those interested in joining UWE may contact President Abby Black-Mishaan. More information is available on Instagram (@ISU_UWE) and the UWE website.
