Source: Florence Neymotin, 785-532-4575, neymotin@ksu.edu
News release prepared by: Kayela Richard, 785-532-1546, media@k-state.edu

Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2010

NEW CLUB CONNECTS WOMEN IN THE ECONOMICS FIELD

MANHATTAN -- Kansas State University's new Women in Economics club is sponsoring several speakers to help learn and explore new ideas in a collaborative setting.

"By bringing female economist speakers to speak to our group, organizing social and academic events, providing mentorship and interpersonal support, group members are able to increase their probability of success and advancement in the economics profession," said Florence Neymotin, K-State assistant professor of economics.

Women in Economics was started in April 2010. It emphasizes the importance of good, intelligent connections to other women in the economic line of work, Neymotin said.

"The mission of Women in Economics is to generate an atmosphere of positive support and mentorship for female graduate students in the economics profession," she said.

The group currently plans events for women and works to create advancement for women on the K-State campus.

"I am very happy to have gotten the women in our department working together by starting and leading this group," Neymotin said. "Although it is a large time commitment, I can see visible results and progress in the women's attitude toward their work and economics in general. I think that this bodes well for their continued direction and progress in the field."

Donna Ginther, professor of economics at the University of Kansas, will be speak to the group at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, in 329 Waters Hall. She'll discuss her work as a professor and as the director of the Center for Economic and Business Analysis at KU. Ginther also will present an economic department seminar at 3:45 p.m. in 329 Waters. Both presentations are free and open to the public.

"Donna Ginther is a good example of a woman in economics who has succeeded in her field and understands the value and worth of women working in groups where they receive support and encouragement," Neymotin said.