Tawni Ferrarini (Economics) is Northern's Sam M. Cohodas Scholar for economic development in the Upper Peninsula. She will work with the campus community and regional organizations to research economic activity for others to use to develop plans for enhancing the U.P. economy.
“My professional passion and my personal love for the area made me want to pursue this assignment,” said Ferrarini, whose teaching load will be reduced so that she can focus on her new role. “There is so much potential for growth here. My number one job this semester will be to listen to organizations such as Michigan Works, the U.P. Economic Development Authority, Operation Action U.P. and others interested in economic vitality across the region.
“I will also generate a report on the macro health of the U.P. The Federal Reserve Bank in Minneapolis provided support to gather relevant statistics. Based on the findings of these activities, I will meet with individuals and organizations to assist them in moving forward their plans for growth and development."
Susan Koch (Academic Affairs) said the scholar appointment was made possible through a generous gift from the Cohodas family, whose members have made significant contributions to the U.P. economy.
“Dr. Ferrarini brings a unique set of talents and a high level of expertise and enthusiasm to this important assignment,” Koch said. “I am confident that her leadership as the Sam M. Cohodas Scholar will serve as a catalyst for new collaborations and new ideas that will enhance economic development across the U.P.”
Ferrarini joined the NMU faculty in 1998 and has served as the director of its Center for Economic Education and Entrepreneurship since 2000. She was selected for the scholar assignment through an application process open to tenured or tenure-track faculty at NMU for a term tentatively scheduled to extend through June 2010. |
Ferrarini Named Cohodas Scholar
