The Policy That "Keeps on Giving": The Emergence of Eminent Scholar Programs in Disadvantaged States

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Division J Poster Session: Policy, Finance, and Economics

Abstract

Of the state policies endeavoring to harness academic research for economic aims, eminent scholar programs likely have the greatest potential to influence universities and regional economies. While the number of these postsecondary policies has burgeoned since their inception in the early 1980s, the programs often entail significant state costs along with implications for organizational complexity, performance, prestige. Moreover, eminent scholar programs are arguably most effective at fostering economic growth. Investigating the origins of state eminent scholar programs thus seems worthwhile, particularly in disadvantaged states seeking to improve economically within a global knowledge economy. This study thus seeks to understand the political elements influencing disadvantaged states’ adoption of eminent scholar programs using an in-depth case study in concert with policymaking frameworks.

Author

• Nathan Moore, University of Georgia - Athens