Gustavus Adolphus College will host Dr. Walter Williams, professor of economics at George Mason University and author of over 150 publications, for a free public lecture on Wednesday, April 18, at 7 p.m. in Cec Eckhoff Alumni Hall. Titled “The Role of Government in a Free Society,” his lecture’s remarks will address why and how there has been a decline of constitutional values that has permitted the growth of the government. The event will be streamed live online.
“Dr. Williams has devoted his career to shining a light on the unintended and often disastrous outcomes of well-intentioned policies. His popular syndicated weekly column blends brilliant economic analysis with impeccable communication skills,” Gustavus economics professor Marta Podemska-Mikluch said.
Beyond his experience serving at George Mason as the John M. Olin Distinguished Professor of Economics, Williams has authored over 150 publications which have appeared in scholarly journals and popular publications. Of his 10 books, The State Against Blacks and Up from the Projects: An Autobiography were made into PBS documentaries.
Williams has also made numerous presences within the world of radio and television including Nightline, Face the Nation, Macneil/Lehrer, Wall Street Week, and also acted as the regular commentator for Nightly Business Report. Furthermore, Williams has appeared as an occasional substitute host for the Rush Limbaugh show.
Williams writes a nationally syndicated weekly column that is carried by approximately 140 newspapers and several web sites. He has also frequently given expert testimony before Congressional committees on public policy issues ranging from labor policy to taxation and spending.
“Despite his frequent media appearances, Dr. Williams very rarely gives public lectures. As a former student of Professor Williams, I wanted Gusties to experience what I consider to be the most thought-provoking educational experience I have ever had,” Podemska-Mikluch said.
The prominent economist will be on campus as the College’s 2018 Lindau Resident in Conservative Thought, an annual program that connects Gustavus students with prominent conservative thought leaders to ensure that all viewpoints are represented in civil dialogue.
“No matter where students stand on the political spectrum, Williams will challenge them to pursue a deeper understanding of a market economy and the role of government in a free society,” added Podemska-Mikluch.
Hosted this year by the Gustavus Department of Economics and Management, the Lindau Residency in Conservative Thought is endowed from Phil and Nancy Lindau and the Lindau family and has allowed Gustavus students to engage on campus in an active learning environment with a prominent conservative thinker annually since 2009. Additional support for Dr. William’s visit to campus comes from Stanley and Karen Hubbard.
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