Words from Dr. Martin Asher

I am exceedingly pleased with the existence and activity of the Wharton Politics and Business Association (WPBA). I have known founders, officers, and members through my courses, and therefore know the competence and passion they and others bring to inquiry regarding the intersection of business, economics, and public policy. Students with business training bring different skills to the exchange of ideas over the appropriate role of government and the design of particular policies. This has always been true, but perhaps not as obvious as it is today as debate continues over unprecedented financial bailouts, financial market regulation, economic stimulus, health care and Social Security reform, sustainability, and measures to reduce poverty here and worldwide.

It has long been my hope that more Wharton students would seriously consider careers in the public sector. With fundamental changes taking place in financial markets, this may naturally occur to a greater degree. But even those who will move into the private sector – whether in for-profit or non-profit organizations – will be well served by considering the implications of and helping to shape public policy.

I highly encourage students to attend and participate in the many activities of the WPBA, which include lectures, seminars, policy competitions, and discussions over many of the most important national and global questions of our time. I am heartened by the thought that Penn students will be the civic, business, and governmental leaders of tomorrow, and I hope that you consider the possibility of engaging in that thought process starting here at Penn/Wharton through the WPBA.

Martin A. Asher, PhD
Director, Research and Scholars Programs
Wharton Undergraduate Division
Adjunct Professor of Finance
The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

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