Paul Wilson
University Distinguished Professor
Dr. Wilson's teaching and research interests included the economics of agribusiness organization and management, the economics of irrigation, and the economic dimensions of institutional change. These emphases evolved from his rural background and work with the Peace Corps and the Agency for International Development.
Dr. Wilson's research focuses on the economics of irrigated agriculture, trust as a business asset, strategic investment decisions by agribusiness firms, and transboundary conflicts (e.g., water, dust) along the interface between rural and urban areas. These projects involved varying degrees of collaboration with agricultural engineers, biologists, agronomists, and animal scientists. Dr. Wilson has received several awards at the College and University levels for outstanding teaching and advising including being named a University Distinguished Professor.
Peace Corps
Country of Service:
Dominican Republic, Costa Rica
Service Years:
1970-1972
Service Sector:
Cooperative Development/Business Advisor and Accountant
How did the AREC program connect your service and help you prepare for your professional experiences?
The AREC program enabled me to acquire the writing, research, analytical and teaching skills to be offered jobs in the private, consulting, and public sectors. My wife and I chose to pursue the opportunity with the U.S. Agency for International Development where I served as a loan officer and a rural development officer in Washington, D.C. and Nicaragua. This overseas experience led us to pursue a Ph.D. after 2+ years of service.
Why would you recommend that an RPCV join our M.S. program?
Students will participate in a student-centered academic environment that prepares the student for analytical and managerial positions in the private and public sectors.
Degrees
- Professor; Ph.D., University of Minnesota, 1982; Economics of Organization, Management, and Technical Change