Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Blasingame Chair of Excellence in Agricultural Policy studies international trade to better understand the US agricultural economy
Where are you from, and how did your career lead you to UTIA?
I was born in New Orleans but grew up partly in Southern California. I have worked on trade issues for almost twenty years and was at US Department of Agriculture for eight years prior to joining the UT Institute of Agriculture in 2018. My research and outreach on international agricultural trade led me to UTIA.
What is your main research focus, and why it is important?
My research focuses on international trade, trade policy, and global food demand. This is important because agricultural trade allows us to feed the world and trade, and US agriculture depends heavily on global markets for sales. Thus, the viability of the US agricultural economy depends on global markets and dynamics.
Why did you choose the field of agricultural and resource economics?
I was interested in seeing the world and how the global agricultural system works. How nations feed their citizens is a key question of our time.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of the work you do?
I love working with students and guiding student-led research projects. At this stage in my career, I really enjoy mentoring students and emerging researchers. I also love exploring new areas of research.
What has been your proudest moment while working at UTIA?
I have had many proud moments, but my most proud moment is when I helped the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to obtain USDA funding to promote Tennessee forest products in Vietnam. In addition to the related research, through both inbound and outbound trade missions, we were able to increase exports sales to Vietnam. It is rewarding when you see real and significant tangible outcomes of your research and outreach efforts.
What is one of your favorite experiences you have had at UTIA?
My favorite moment is when a student that I advise completes their graduate research, as well as attending their graduation.
What is a project you are currently working on that you are excited about?
I am working on a possible project to assess the economic and environmental impacts of US wood pellet trade, with a particular focus on the effects of EU renewable energy and forest sustainability policies. I just submitted the proposal to USDA and would be very excited if we were funded. An important feature of this project is that we will develop a modeling and analytical framework to assess the interrelations between trade flows, regional and state-level economic impacts, and regional and state-level changes in forest resources, carbon storage and sequestration. Our project will be the first to fully integrate and assess trade, economic, and environmental impacts at the regional and state level, providing results that could inform both national and state-level responses to EU policies.
What do you like to do outside of work and/or what is a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues and students wouldn’t know?
I love to read and attend low-budget and independent movies. I am also a frequent attendee of small scale Jazz events around Knoxville.
