Please describe your journey to Gatton. Where did you begin, and what transpired along the way?
I was born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, and I did not initially envision a career in academia. At eighteen, I began studying Economics at the University of Texas at Arlington, where my interest in the discipline gradually deepened. I decided to continue at UTA for my master’s degree, during which I had the privilege of working with three outstanding mentors—Professor Mike Ward, Professor Craig Depken, and Professor Dennis Wilson. Their guidance, encouragement, and example ultimately inspired me to pursue a Ph.D. in economics.
My connection to Gatton emerged through these relationships. Professor Ward attended graduate school with the current department chair, Professor Ken Troske (who I ended up working with on my dissertation – completely unplanned), at the University of Chicago, and Professor Wilson is himself an alumnus of the Economics Ph.D. (1999) program at the University of Kentucky. Through their encouragement, I applied to UK and began my doctoral studies in the fall of 2007. During my time at Gatton, I was fortunate to have Professor Troske serve as my dissertation chair, to receive substantial research mentorship from Professor Chris Jepsen. I was fortunate to receive valuable teaching guidance from Professor Gail Hoyt, a multiple award-winning educator who shaped my passion for teaching.
After completing my Ph.D. in 2011, I spent one year as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Roanoke College, followed by three years as an Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Tennessee at Martin. I later returned to Gatton, where I was hired as a lecturer—bringing my journey full circle.
What are some things that you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends—including my four‑legged best friend of 13 years, Tusker. Traveling is a true passion of mine; I’ve visited 35 countries and love discovering new places through food, culture, and the outdoors. I also enjoy dining out, reading, hiking, and staying connected with former students. One of my favorite things to do is plan trips for others—especially when Kenya is involved. A safari is truly a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience that I believe everyone should enjoy at least once.
You are a co-founder of the hugely successful Econ Games. How did that come to fruition and what plans are on the horizon to make it even bigger?
Abdullah Al‑Bahrani, a Gatton alumnus, and I co‑founded Econ Games after recognizing a persistent gap in the economics labor market. Economics students often struggle to see how their skills translate into concrete career opportunities, while employers clearly articulate hiring needs without realizing that economics majors are exceptionally well suited to meet them. Econ Games was created to bridge this disconnect.
Through Econ Games, students tackle real business problems and applied tasks, allowing them to demonstrate their analytical, quantitative, and problem‑solving skills directly to prospective employers. The competition highlights that economics majors possess abilities that are not only comparable to those of other business disciplines, but often uniquely powerful—particularly in data analysis, strategic thinking, and decision‑making. Most importantly, it allows students to showcase their talents in a dynamic, real‑world environment.
Faculty across the country quickly recognized that this challenge exists at their own institutions, and Econ Games has become an effective platform for supporting students nationwide. This past year, 29 universities participated, with more than 240 students competing. The continued growth in both geographic and institutional diversity underscores the competition’s expanding national footprint.
Looking ahead, we are exploring the development of regional competitions that would feed into a national final hosted in Kentucky, potentially at UK or Northern Kentucky University. For now, Econ Games will return to the University of Kentucky on April 1 and 2, 2027, as we continue to build on its momentum and impact.
In your capacity, both inside the classroom and outside (as with Econ Games) how have you seen Gatton Alums showing up for our students and faculty?
They are eager to support in any way possible—whether by speaking to student groups like the Economics Society, visiting classes such as Sports Economics, serving as judges for the Econ Games, or partnering as our primary data source. These alumni generously give their time and expertise to help our students succeed, and they are always willing to connect. I am deeply appreciative of their continued engagement and support.
What more can Gatton alums do to make the Gatton experience even more impactful for our students?
Gatton alumni can further enhance the student experience by deepening opportunities for meaningful, ongoing engagement. This could include mentoring students through career exploration and job searches, offering short‑term project or internship opportunities, and hosting site visits or virtual “day‑in‑the‑life” sessions that connect coursework to real‑world applications. Alumni can also help by sharing career pathways—especially non‑traditional or less visible ones—providing resume and interview feedback, and collaborating with faculty on applied projects that bring industry data and decision‑making into the classroom. Even small, consistent touchpoints can have a lasting impact on students’ confidence, preparation, and professional networks. Last, we are always looking for consulting opportunities for our students to solve a real task during the semester and data partners for Econ Games.
