One of the most accomplished economists among her peers, Diane has been named a Fellow of the National Association for Business Economics for her contributions to the field of applied economics. She devotes much of her time to improving the quality of economic statistics to more precisely analyze how policy shifts can affect the economy. Her charitable efforts are focused on investing in human capital.
As a labor economist, she is being asked by companies including Microsoft and TD Ameritrade to throw light on the visible and invisible aspects of diversity. White men from different regions with socioeconomic and age differences sometimes face challenges that are overlooked. Add race, sex, learning differences and we find that the labor force is more complex than many realize, but offers opportunities as well. Diane brings insights as a woman in a field dominated by men and as a dyslexic. She has been told that she effectively has a third eye to spot things others do not.
Diane’s expertise helps companies to tap talent in a tightening labor market. Research demonstrates the advantages that diversity brings to decision-making. Diversity is really about accessing the strengths embedded in individuals. It begins but does not end with recruitment. Business leaders are increasingly recognizing that diversity is a necessity, not just a nicety.
Ten Scholars Selected by the Posse Foundation in Chicago.
Diane Swonk serves on the board of the Posse Foundation, dedicated to expanding access to higher education. Ten scholars form a posse when they start college together, attending top universities including Diane’s alma mater the University of Michigan.
