The Mackinac Center for Public Policy is pleased to host monthly Issues & Ideas Luncheons in Lansing. These luncheons, which feature experts on a diverse array of subjects, offer a forum that enhances and broadens the policy debate to include theoretical and philosophical ideals—and suggestions for achieving them.

News media, legislators, policy staff and interested citizens are cordially invited to the

SEPTEMBER ISSUES & IDEAS LUNCHEON

“Higher Education Spending and Economic Growth?”

DATE:	Thursday, September 21, 2006
TIME:	12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
LOCATION:	The Mackinac Room, 5th Floor, House Office Building 124 N. Capitol Lansing, MI 48933
COST:	Lunch is provided at no charge, with reservation.

Dr. Richard Vedder is an award-winning economics professor at Ohio University and an adjunct scholar with the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. Dr. Vedder’s research and writing is wide-ranging, including topics such as taxes, economic growth, higher education, and immigration and internal migration. Indeed, he is the author of more than 100 papers on the economics of migration alone.

He is also the author of four books on labor, unemployment and school reform, including his most recent, “Going Broke By Degree: Why College Costs Too Much.” Dr. Vedder recently founded the Center for College Affordability and Productivity, a Washington, D.C.-based research institute. The institute will study current issues in higher education finance.

Dr. Vedder will address the significant rise in higher education spending across the country and corresponding declines in university productivity. He will also address the almost faddish notion among public officials that increased government spending on higher education can translate to better state economic growth and development. He will conclude with some observations on the types of reforms that could be implemented to improve the cost effectiveness of colleges and universities everywhere.

Known for his impressive acumen and distinctive, often humorous speaking style, Vedder brings to this speech more than 40 years of insight and scholarship, as well as experience as a public university professor. This is a can’t-miss event for anyone interested in higher education and economic growth.

The luncheon begins promptly at noon. Please make reservations for yourself and your guests by 5 p.m. on Monday, September 18th by calling the Mackinac Center at (989) 631‑0900.

The Purpose of the Issues & Ideas Luncheon

The nature of the legislative process is such that public policy debates are often framed by specific constituencies and political pragmatism rather than by sound principles. By offering a forum for wide-ranging discussion, the Mackinac Center for Public Policy hopes to broaden the debate to include theoretical and philosophical ideals — and how to achieve them. The best interests of Michigan citizens can be served only when legislation incorporates our best understanding of legal, economic, psychological, moral and scientific principles.