As we move into the new year, everyone agrees that Michigan is at an important crossroad. Projections for the State's future tend to vary by source.
The January forum will clarify the current course of the Great Lakes state by focusing on its demographics. What do demographics tell us about the direction of Michigan's population, its education, employment, and business climate? What is the call to action for Michigan residents and leaders? The forum will provide demographic information to consider when prioritizing Michigan's agenda in the new year and beyond. In this year-opening Forum, one of Michigan’s leading demographic authorities will share the state’s latest demographic description and point to the themes suggested within these numbers. One of Michigan’s leading economists will remark on the state’s demographic profile and economic indicators. The Forum discussion will focus on critical themes, possible turning points, key policy considerations and will invite audience participation.
Speakers
- Kenneth Darga, former Michigan demographer.
Darga Presentation: Michigan Youth, Urban Centers and Opportunity (.pdf) - Charles Ballard, Michigan State University professor of economics, Department of Economics within MSU’s College of Social Science. He is also director of the MSU State of the State Survey at the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research. Ballard Presentation: Where There Is Economic Opportunity, People Will Follow (.pdf)