California Economic Forum

Please join the UC Student and Policy Center for the third annual 2026 California Economic Forum.

This year’s forum, presented in partnership with POLITICO, features the release of the 2026 UCLA Anderson Economic Forecast, the premier independent economic analysis of California’s economy for over 75 years; two panel discussions with key leaders in California government and industry; and an engaging keynote fireside chat during lunch. With disruptive international events, federal policy shifts on tariffs and immigration, and the upcoming state budget deadline, the Economic Forum is a timely discussion of California’s economic outlook and the challenges shaping the year ahead. Last year sold out, so get your tickets today!

Speakers include:

• Session 1 on the UCLA Forecast: Faculty Director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast Jerry Nickelsburg presenting the Forecast report.

• Session 2 on California’s Budget and Finances: State Controller Malia Cohen, Legislative Analyst Gabriel Petek, Department of Finance Director Joe Stephenshaw, moderated by POLITICO reporter Blake Jones.

• Keynote Fireside Chat on Energy Costs and the Economy: Liane Randolph, former Chair of the California Air Resources Board and former Commissioner with the California Public Utilities Commission, moderated by POLITICO reporter Camille von Kaenel (Catered buffet lunch provided).

• Session 3 on Industry Perspectives: Executive Director & CEO League of California Cities Carolyn Coleman, President & CEO of California Manufacturers & Technology Association Lance Hastings; Jeremy Smith, Chief of Staff, State Building and Construction Trades Council of California, and more, moderated by POLITICO reporter Dustin Gardiner.

A catered luncheon is included.

Seating is limited and expected to fill quickly, so reserve your seat here.

For further details on registration, please contact Vanessa Richardson at [email protected].

Attendance at this event by a public official will constitute acceptance of a reportable gift from the Regents of the University of California. (Government Code Section 86112.3.) For purposes of reporting, the University of California, UC campuses, and UC medical centers constitute a single reporting entity.

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Host or Publisher UC Student and Policy Center