Economist Dr. John Siegfried recently gave a seminar to faculty and students at the University of Nebraska’s Wick Alumni Center that was also open to the general public. The seminar titled, "What Does Intercollegiate Athletics Do To (or For) Colleges and Universities?” gave attendees a unique insight into the affects of athletics on Universities throughout the country.
Dr. Scott Fuess, chair of the department of economics at the UNL College of Business Administration, was enthusiastic to hear Siegfried speak.
“Professor Siegfried's lecture shows how basic textbook principles of economic thinking can be applied to a topic of broad popular interest, in this case, intercollegiate sports,” Fuess said. “His analysis shows that intercollegiate sports aren't obviously a 'money machine' for most colleges and universities. Yet his research does show that intercollegiate sports strengthen the brand image of a college or university and that institutions of all sizes and qualities can benefit in various ways from the presence of intercollegiate sports.”
The event was coordinated in part by CBA economic professors Dr. William Walstad and Dr. Sam Allgood through their work with Siegfried at the American Economic Association, where Siegfried serves as secretary treasurer.
Siegfried is professor emeritus from Vanderbilt University and has served their since 1981.
Published: October 17, 2011