Challey Spotlight: Ethan Liu
Challey Research Specialist
Ethan Liu, M.A. is a Research Specialist for the Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Finance degree at Southwest University of Finance and Economics in Chengdu, China, and earned a Master of Arts in International Economics and Finance at Brandeis University. His areas of interest include International Economics, International Business, and Applied Microeconomics. As a research specialist, he is responsible for digging in to the data tied to regional concerns and explains the findings for community members to enhance understanding and enable informed decision making.
Tell us about your role at NDSU.
At NDSU, I focus on performing research and generating policies and solutions to drive economic development for North Dakota, the Midwest, and the nation. I’m involved in various projects addressing public concerns, including education, labor shortage and food insecurity in North Dakota. One of my most exciting projects was our initial research on the teacher shortage. We uncovered various reasons behind the shortages and proposed feasible solutions, such as differential pay based on performance and subject taught. I'm particularly proud that our work has raised local awareness and had a tangible impact.
What inspired you to join our team, and why are you interested in doing this type of work?
I'm passionate about the Challey Institute's mission to promote economic opportunity and flourishing. I aim to use my quantitative and theoretical skills to explore critical economic issues that might have been previously overlooked. I feel a strong sense of achievement when my work becomes impactful and helps improve people's lives. Additionally, the open, dedicated, and harmonious team environment greatly appealed to me. We're all working towards the same vision, and it's incredibly encouraging to be part of such a motivated team.
Why are you grateful for the philanthropy that makes Challey events and research possible?
Philanthropy has provided us with a platform to study the economy in-depth, conduct research on interesting topics, and collaborate with each other. The entire NDSU community and the state of North Dakota benefit from our impactful outcomes. Additionally, other rural states can learn from North Dakota's example, demonstrating that this philanthropy has a nationwide impact.
The Sheila and Robert Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth aims to advance understanding in the areas of innovation, trade, institutions, and human potential to identify policies and solutions for the betterment of society. Learn more at www.ndsu.edu/challeyinstitute
