National Economic Association 2025 Samuel Z. Westerfield Award Luncheon

NEA 2025 Samuel Z. Westerfield Luncheon

The National Economic Association (NEA) is pleased to award Professor Patrick L. Mason, Chair and professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, with the 2025 Samuel Z. Westerfield Award. The award honors Black economists whose academic and professional contributions emanate excellence and dedication to the advancement of Black people and expanding the knowledge regarding the Black economic experience.

Professor Mason’s work spans multiple areas of economics, with a focus on labor, political economy, development, education, social identity, and crime. He has a particular interest in racial inequality, among others, and helped to establish the field of stratification economics. A highly respected scholar, Professor Mason has authored nearly 100 publications. His most recent book, The Economics of Structural Racism (Cambridge University Press), further elevates discussions about race and economics in the labor market using the lens of stratification economics.

Complementing his extensive academic contributions, Professor Mason has demonstrated remarkable leadership and service, including roles as past president of the National Economic Association, Program Director of the American Economic Association’s Committee on the Status of Minority Groups in the Economics Profession, and chairman of the board at Partners for Dignity & Rights.

Please join us for this in-person special event celebrating the achievements of Professor Mason and excellence in the field of economics. The gathering will be held at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square. Get ready for an inspiring afternoon filled with recognition, networking, and delicious food. Don't miss this opportunity to honor Professor Mason and connect with colleagues. Reserve your spot now!

About the Samuel Z. Westerfield Award

The Samuel Z. Westerfield Award was established in 1973 by the NEA when it was awarded posthumously to American Ambassador to Liberia, Samuel Zazu Westerfield, Jr – an outstanding teacher and university administrator, a dedicated official in government service, a talented international diplomat, and a successful and avid builder of institutions dedicated to economic development and the economic advancement of the Black community. The award celebrates economists whose work promotes the NEA’s mission, focusing on training Black economists, fostering discussions about Black economic experiences, and advocating for alternative perspectives in economics. This distinguished honor is awarded every few years to individuals whose scholarship, teaching, community service, and institution-building represent the highest standards of achievement.

Host or Publisher National Economic Association