Prior Forums

Provided below is a listing of prior Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR) policy forums. This listing is comprised of an abstract of the event, along with panelist information and actual slideshow Forum Resources when available. To order a VHS or DVD copy of a past forum or view a schedule of upcoming broadcasts, visit www.mgtv.org or review the instructions below.

Forums resources from 2001 to present are available on this site. They are organized in two ways: by policy topic area and chronologically. For more information, contact IPPSR's Director of Program Development, AnnMarie Schneider.

Chronological Listing

Michigan’s Research Universities: Their Impact on the Economy
June 21, 2007

Michigan’s Knowledge Economy and the Education, Job Creation Connection
May 16, 2007

Budget Corrections? The Cost of Safety and Related Policies
April 18, 2007

Climate Change and the Michigan Economy
March 14, 2007

Shaping Michigan’s First Universal Health Plan
February 21, 2007

Communities Collaborating to Meet Service Needs, Share Costs
January 31, 2007

FDA Approved Immunity in Michigan
May 3, 2006

Michigan Economy: The Impact of Immigration
April 19, 2006

Today's Bully & Anti-Bully Tactics
March 22, 2006

Moving Michigan Cities Back on Track
February 15, 2006

Curbing Energy Costs in a Cold Weather, Commuter State
January 25, 2006

Privacy and Security of Citizen Information: The Role of State Government
May 11, 2005

Michigan and the International Economy: Gaining an Edge on Overseas Trade
April 13, 2005

Talk of Tax Reform: Unemployment Taxes and Business Loopholes
March 30, 2005

Trash Dumping in Michigan: The Economics of Solid Waste Management
February 23, 2005

Picking the Presidential Winner
May 19, 2004

Michigan and the International Economy: Food Safety and Security
May 11, 2004

Taking Notes on the Economy: Outlook for Michigan
April 22, 2004

Funding K-12 Education in Michigan: Proposal A Then and Now
March 15, 2004

Surveying Public Opinion on Critical Issues: The State of the State Survey Results
February 25, 2004

Linking Physical Fitness to Neighborhoods: Community Planning
January 28, 2004

Family Impact Seminar: Innovative State and Local Approaches to Health Coverage for Children
October 7, 2003

Marketing Michigan: Keeping and Attracting Young Professionals
May 14, 2003

Health Management: Personal Responsibility and the Government Role
April 30, 2003

Land Use Planning and Policymaking: Today’s Choices, Tomorrow’s Impacts
March 26, 2003

Michigan Citizens on School Consolidation
February 26, 2003

Diversity and the Future of Michigan's Cities
January 29, 2003

Michigan Residents' Perceptions of Wetlands and Mitigation
May 8, 2002

Critical Health Policy Questions in Michigan
April 10, 2002

Michigan’s Changing Demography: Effects on State Expenditures
March 28, 2002

Foster Care Policy Needs: Kinship and Aging Out
February 27, 2002

The Future of the Great Lakes
February 13, 2002

Urban Michigan: Citizens’ Perspectives on Our Cities
January 30, 2002

Accountability and Performance in Michigan Schools
September 26, 2001

Drawing the Lines in 2001—Political and Policy Issues on Redistricting of Michigan
May 9, 2001

Legislating the Net: Privacy and Protection
April 24, 2001

Michigan Residents Surveyed on the State of Their State
March 28, 2001

Policy Implications of Michigan's Changing Demographics
February 15, 2001

Return to Top

Policy Topic Listing

Economic Policy

Michigan’s Knowledge Economy and the Education, Job Creation Connection
May 16, 2007

Budget Corrections? The Cost of Safety and Related Policies
April 18, 2007

Michigan Economy: The Impact of Immigration
April 19, 2006

Moving Michigan Cities Back on Track
February 15, 2006

Curbing Energy Costs in a Cold Weather, Commuter State
January 25, 2006

Talk of Tax Reform: Unemployment Taxes and Business Loopholes
March 30, 2005

Trash Dumping in Michigan: The Economics of Solid Waste Management
February 23, 2005

Michigan and the International Economy: Food Safety and Security
May 11, 2004

Taking Notes on the Economy: Outlook for Michigan
April 22, 2004

Marketing Michigan: Keeping and Attracting Young Professionals
May 14, 2003

Diversity and the Future of Michigan's Cities
January 29, 2003

Michigan’s Changing Demography: Effects on State Expenditures
March 28, 2002

Policy Implications of Michigan's Changing Demographics
February 15, 2001

Education & Michigan Schools

Michigan’s Research Universities: Their Impact on the Economy
June 21, 2007

Michigan’s Knowledge Economy and the Education, Job Creation Connection
May 16, 2007

Today's Bully & Anti-Bully Tactics
March 22, 2006

Funding K-12 Education in Michigan: Proposal A Then and Now
March 15, 2004

Michigan Citizens on School Consolidation
February 26, 2003

Accountability and Performance in Michigan Schools
September 26, 2001

Environment & Natural Resources

Climate Change and the Michigan Economy
March 14, 2007

Curbing Energy Costs in a Cold Weather, Commuter State
January 25, 2006

Trash Dumping in Michigan: The Economics of Solid Waste Management
February 23, 2005

Land Use Planning and Policymaking: Today’s Choices, Tomorrow’s Impacts
March 26, 2003

Michigan Residents' Perceptions of Wetlands and Mitigation
May 8, 2002

The Future of the Great Lakes
February 13, 2002

Government, Politics & Policy

Communities Collaborating to Meet Service Needs, Share Costs
January 31, 2007

Picking the Presidential Winner
May 19, 2004

Drawing the Lines in 2001—Political and Policy Issues on Redistricting of Michigan
May 9, 2001

Policy Implications of Michigan's Changing Demographics
February 15, 2001

Health Policy

Shaping Michigan’s First Universal Health Plan
February 21, 2007

FDA Approved Immunity in Michigan
May 3, 2006

Family Impact Seminar: Innovative State and Local Approaches to Health Coverage for Children
October 7, 2003

Health Management: Personal Responsibility and the Government Role
April 30, 2003

Critical Health Policy Questions in Michigan
April 10, 2002

Linking Physical Fitness to Neighborhoods: Community Planning
January 28, 2004

Public Opinion in Michigan

Surveying Public Opinion on Critical Issues: The State of the State Survey Results
February 25, 2004

Urban Michigan: Citizens’ Perspectives on Our Cities
January 30, 2002

Michigan Residents Surveyed on the State of Their State
March 28, 2001

Safety & Crime in Michigan

Budget Corrections? The Cost of Safety and Related Policies
April 18, 2007

Today's Bully & Anti-Bully Tactics
March 22, 2006

Privacy and Security of Citizen Information: The Role of State Government
May 11, 2005

Legislating the Net: Privacy and Protection
April 24, 2001

Youth & Family

Today's Bully & Anti-Bully Tactics
March 22, 2006

Family Impact Seminar: Innovative State and Local Approaches to Health Coverage for Children
October 7, 2003

Foster Care Policy Needs: Kinship and Aging Out
February 27, 2002

Return to Top

Michigan’s Research Universities: Their Impact on the Economy
Thursday • June 21, 2007 • 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

A new study shows that Michigan’s largest research universities have a significant impact on the state’s economy, its ability to attract jobs and transfer of technology from research centers like universities to profit-generating businesses. This new research indicates that Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Wayne State University are attracting federal research support and generating economic activity to rival the nation’s best-known university-technology clusters. This forum will look at examples of university-created economic value and discuss how the innovation that puts Michigan’s research institutions into the nation’s top-ranked academic centers can be inspiring and rewarding.

Speakers:
bios of all three speakers (pdf)
Patrick Anderson,chief executive officer of Anderson Economic Group, and author of the preliminary report “The Economic Benefits of the University Research Corridor.”
Lou Glazer, a former deputy director of the state Commerce Department and now president of Michigan Future, Inc., a group advancing technology innovations.
David Hollister, former member of Michigan’s House of Representatives, former mayor of Lansing and now president of Prima Civitas Foundation, committed to the re-emergence of Michigan as a powerhouse economy.

Michigan’s Knowledge Economy and the Education, Job Creation Connection
Wednesday • May 16, 2007 • 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
How do universities and communities connect to create jobs? How do innovations and discoveries found on campus connect with new job creation throughout the state? What are examples of policies working between state government and universities in other states that Michigan lawmakers might model for job creation in new markets? What is the vision for a job-creating, working relationship between academia and business? This forum will look at how public policy can invigorate a "job-creation" connection among university and community partners across the state.

Speakers:
bio (pdf) - Lisa Kuuttila, incoming director of MSU Technologies and national leader in innovation-based business growth
bio (pdf) - Matthew Dugener, president of the Lansing Economic Area Partnership, a region-specific organization dedicated to economic development and entrepreneurial attractiveness for Ingham, Eaton and Clinton counties
bio (pdf) - Irma Zuckerberg, director of the Mid-Michigan Innovation Team (MMIT) project
Photos (pdf) from this event

Budget Corrections? The Cost of Safety and Related Policies
Wednesday • April 18, 2007 • 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
The pending Michigan budget crisis has policymakers scrutinizing the cost of corrections. While downsizing the correctional system has the potential positive impact of also downsizing expenditures, it raises concerns about the ability to maintain a safe and humane environment in a correctional system struggling to meet current needs with existing resources, and it raises the specter of potential threats to public safety. The forum will review national and state trends in crime and corrections, as well as information on policy effectiveness. It will help attendees to assess the potential return on investment of current and potential correctional strategies. The forum is sponsored by the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR) and the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University.

Speakers:
bio (pdf) - Ed McGarrell, Director, MSU School of Criminal Justice
bio (pdf) - Carol Zimmermann, Assistant Professor, MSU School of Criminal Justice

Climate Change and the Michigan Economy
Wednesday • March 14, 2007 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.
Michigan’s agricultural and tourist industries are among the first to realize a weather-related hit on the state economy. What has been the actual impact? What is the science behind global climate change and how might it influence state policy? Has climate change influenced Michigan’s competitiveness in the global economy? This forum will address these questions and discuss policies that minimize the negative consequence of economic-bearing climate change.

Forum Resources (pdf):
How might Michigan's climate change in the future? - Julie A. Winkler, PhD
Climate Change and Michigan' Economy - Jeffrey A. Andresen, PhD
Climate Risk and Opportunity - David Lewis Skole, PhD
Media Report - Gongwer News Service
Media Report - MIRS News
Photos from this event

Speakers:
bios of all three speakers (pdf)
Julie A. Winkler, PhD, professor of Geography at Michigan State University
Jeffrey A. Andresen, PhD, associate professor of Geography at Michigan State University
David Lewis Skole, PhD, professor of global change science at MSU Department of Forestry

Shaping Michigan’s First Universal Health Plan
Wednesday • February 21, 2007 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.
A new plan providing health care coverage for all Michigan residents is in the making. This forum looked at some of the components of the Michigan First plan and discussed the funding mechanism necessary to make it work. Parts of the plan would create a sliding scale for uninsured residents based on income and lifestyle habits. It would require a public and private partnership to open-up access to insurance.

Panelists explored similar initiatives in Hawaii, Minnesota, California, and Massachusetts. These programs could work as a road map for how our state might provide all residents access to quality health care at more affordable costs.

Forum Resources (pdf):
Bios of Forum Speakers
Shaping Michigan’s First Universal Health Plan, by Harry Perlstadt
Michigan First: Healthcare Plan to Cover Michigan’s Uninsured, by Robert Stampfly
Small Business and Health Insurance – Difficult Choices, by Robert Fowler
Media Report - Gongwer News Service
Media Report - MIRS News
Media Report - PULSE newspaper
Photos from this event

Speakers:
Harry Perlstadt, Director of the MSU Program in Bioethics, Humanities and Society
Robert D. Stampfly, health policy advisor for MSU Institute for Health Care Studies
Rob Fowler, Chair of the Michigan Health Insurance Access Advisory Council (MHIAC), CEO and Executive Director of the Small Business Association of Michigan

Communities Collaborating to Meet Service Needs, Share Costs
Wednesday • January 31, 2007 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.

Intergovernmental Cooperation is gaining the attention of local and state government leaders. Local communities working together to provide essential public services such as public works and safety is being researched as a means of preventing further cost burden on citizens and maintaining or raising the quality of services required by state government. Some public officials view such a measure as giving to or dividing control of services with others who may have less of a vested interest in their immediate community, thereby weakening services.

What does research and observation tell us about intergovernmental cooperation on service provision in our state? How effective is a cooperative effort in saving costs and maintaining the quality of services? What are the noted barriers to intergovernmental cooperation?

Forum Resources (pdf):
Bios of Panelist and Speakers
Collaborating to Meet Service Needs, Share Costs, by Eric Scorsone
Community Collaboration: The Perspective of the Michigan Townships Association, by Larry Merrill
Barriers and Benefits to Intergovernmental Cooperation, by Larry Merrill
Gongwer Report - Local Governments Urge Caution on Consolidation Demands
Media Report - Gongwer News Service
Media Report - MIRS News
Photos from this event

Speakers
Eric Scorsone, MSU Extension and Land Policy Institute
Dan Gilmartin, Michigan Municipal League
Tim McGuire, Michigan Association of Counties
Larry Merrill, Michigan Township Association

FDA Approved Immunity in Michigan
Wednesday • May 3, 2006 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.

Under current Michigan law, residents cannot sue any pharmaceutical company whose drug has been approved by the FDA. While the intent is to keep drug companies out of state court rooms, prevent frivolous lawsuits from causing an increase in the cost of such drugs, and to retain pharmaceutical drug-related jobs in Michigan, some see it as a threat to consumer safety. This forum covered these important policy topics and more.

Forum Resources:
• Bios of Panelists and Speakers (.pdf)*
• "Adulterated" History of the FDA by Harry Perlstadt (.pdf)*
• FDA Approved Immunity in Michigan by Scot Yoder (.pdf)*
• MIRS Report - Weighing Drug Immunity Costs/Benefits (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event

Panelists
• Harry Perlstadt, Professor of Sociology and Dir. of Prog. in Bioethics, Humanities and Society
• Scot Yoder, Assistant Professor of Philosophy
• Paul Arshagouni, Assistant Professor of Law and Director of the Health Law Program

Michigan and the International Economy: The Impact of Immigration
Wednesday • April 19, 2006 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.

What draws immigrants to Michigan, what regions are most appealing to them, and what is the impact of immigration on the various sectors of our economy? Immigration policy has become one of the most contentious issues facing our state and federal government. As one of the many "border states," Michigan is striving for immigration practices that welcome economic development, diversity, and intellectual or skill expertise and discourage risks to security or increased social services costs.

This forum discussion separated fact from fiction regarding immigrants to the Great Lakes State, reviewed related policies and state-level services, looked at the impact of immigration on Michigan demographics, and considered the role immigration plays in the state’s economy.

Panelists and Speakers:
• Brendan Mullan, Associate Professor, MSU Department of Sociology
Demographic Highlights on Michigan's Immigrants
• Rene Rosenbaum, Associate Professor, MSU Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies (CARRS)
Federal & State Immigration Policies and Issues
• Peter Briggs, Director, MSU Office of International Students and Scholars
Universities’ Impact on Immigration and Related Policy Needs
• Peter Antone, Adjunct Professor of Immigration and Nationality Law, MSU College of Law, and Practitioner Specializing in Immigration Law
Business-based Recruitment to Michigan and Related Immigration Issues
• Kish Enstice, Counsel to Catholic Archdiocese of Kalamazoo
Needs of Immigrants to Michigan

Co-Sponsors:


Forum Resources:
• Bios of Panelists and Speakers (.pdf)*
• Michigan and the International Economy by Brendan Mullan (.pdf)*
• Federal and State Immigration Policy and Issues by Rene Rosenbaum (.pdf)*
• Legal Immigration Issues by Peter Briggs (.pdf)*
• Gongwer Report - Experts Urge Education for Illegal Immigrants (.pdf)*
• Kish Enstice recommended resource: Justice for Immigrants
• MIRS Report - Expert: States Must Stop Illegal Immigration Legislation (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event

Today's Bully & Anti-Bully Tactics
Wednesday • March 22, 2006 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.

Bullying is a challenge for schools across the country and policymakers are again being asked to intervene. The age-old problem of bullying has taken on new and more serious outcomes in recent years. Policies adopted in other states and one currently before Michigan policymakers were discussed at this forum, along with an in-depth look at both the bully and the bullied.

Panelists and Speakers:
• Glenn R. Stutzky, Specialist, MSU School of Social Work
• Joseph E. Thomas, Chief of Police, City of Southfield
• William J. Blaha, Esq., Partner, Collins & Blaha, P.C.
• Kevin Epling, Co-founder, Safe Schools, Safe Communities
• Kyle Guerrant, Manager School Health & Safety Programs, MI Dept of Education

Co-Sponsors:


Forum Resources:
• Presenters' Bios and Contact Information (.pdf)*
• Bullying Fact Sheet - National Youth Violence Prevention by Glenn Stutzky (.pdf)*
• Bullying Prevention Tips from Fight Crime: Invest in Kids (.pdf)*
• Cyber-Bullying Information from Glenn Stutzky (.pdf)*
• Proposed Bullying Legislation Analysis from Kyle Guerrant (.pdf)*
• Bullying - Current and Proposed School Requirements by William J. Blaha (.pdf)*
• Threat Assessment in Schools: A Guide to Managing Threatening Situations and to Creating Safe School Climates (.pdf)*
• The Final Report and Findings of the Safe School Initiative: Implications for the Prevention of School Attacks in the United States (.pdf)*
• MIRS Report Gov Uses Bully Pulpit Against Bullies (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event

Moving Michigan Cities Back on Track
Wednesday • February 15, 2006 • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.

Reinvestment in Michigan cities has drawn the interest of state residents as a way to recover a healthy economy. It is also viewed as a way to meet a growing request for communities in which to work, shop, and find entertainment. What is happening statewide to reinvigorate business in our cities? What policies hinder further economic development in urban areas? A discussion of Michigan’s cities, where they are now and in what direction they are headed, were at the center of this forum.

Curbing Energy Costs in a Cold Weather, Commuter State
see below for list of planning partners
Wednesday • January 25, 2006 • 10:30a.m.-2p.m.

Recent changes in Michigan's energy conservation and production plan are intended to curb shortages, reduce costs, and develop multiple means of energy production. Residents have concerns about the cost of home heating and commuting and the impact of energy use on the environment. This forum featured new research and policy proposals designed to address key energy-related issues. A keynote address preceded a panel of experts on the topic, followed by an open discussion with the audience. Additionally, posters and experts on energy-related research projects were available during the forum.

Panelists and Speakers:
• The Hon. Jim Nichols, former Minnesota State Senator and Agriculture Commissioner
• AnnMarie Schneider, Director of Program Planning & Grants, IPPSR
• Eann Patterson, MSU Chair of Mechanical Engineering
• Martin Kushler, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
• Jim Croce, Executive Director, Next Energy, Inc.
• Michael Mackay, MSU Professor of Chemical Engineering
• Bruce E. Dale, MSU Dept. of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science
• Jennifer Alvarado, Executive Director, Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association

Forum Resources:
• Energy Consumer Survey by AnnMarie Schneider (.pdf)*
• Energy as One of the Most Important Issues of our Time by Eann Patterson (.pdf)*
• Energy Costs by Martin Kushler (.pdf)*
• Michigan Energy Industry and Technology by Jim Croce (.pdf)*
• Nanotechnology and Energy by Michael Mackay (.pdf)*
• Biomass Fuels by Bruce E. Dale (.pdf)*
• Energy Policy in Michigan by Jennifer Alvarado (.pdf)*
• MIRS Capitol Capsule on Energy Study (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event
• News Release

Planning Partners for this Event
• MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, CANR
• MSU Department of Agricultural Economics, CANR
• MSU College of Engineering
• NextEnergy, Inc.
• Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association

Forum Resources
• Dan Lohrmann presentation (.pdf)*
• Nora J. Rifon presentation (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event
• News release
• Associated Press news article

Dan Lohrmann is the Director of Michigan’s Office of Enterprise Security within the Michigan Department of Information Technology. Dan also serves as the Chief Information Security Officer for Michigan, chairs the Cyber-Security Sub-Committee within Michigan’s Homeland Protection Board, and is the 2005 Vice President of Michigan InfraGard. Mr. Lohrmann has over 20 years of experience in the computer industry, beginning with the National Security Agency (NSA) in Washington, D.C. He spent several years in England as Senior Network Director for Lockheed Martin, served as IT Director for ManTech International, and then served as Michigan’s CIO and IT Services Director for the Michigan Department of Management and Budget. He holds a Masters Degree in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, and a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science from Valparaiso University in Indiana. Mr. Lohrmann is a former faculty member of the University of Maryland, European Division.

Nora J. Rifon is an Associate Professor in the Department of Advertising at Michigan State University, and serves as the Director of the Department of Advertising’s Focus Group Research Facility. She has conducted consumer research for the industrial sector in addition to her academic research program. Ms. Rifon is a policy and research consultant to the Offices of the Attorney General, as well as the Department of Information Technology in the State of Michigan. She serves on the editorial review boards of Psychology & Marketing, The Journal of Consumer Affairs, and The Journal of Interactive Advertising, and is a Faculty Associate of the MSU Quello Center for Telecommunication Law and Management.

Opportunities In the 21st century, Michigan’s economy and prosperity will be increasingly dependent on the global economy. The forum reported on Michigan’s current level of international trade compared to other states, and focused on opportunities and challenges in overseas trade.

Panelists:
• Carl Liedholm, Professor of Economics at Michigan State University
• Dean Johnson, Senior Director of the Global Business Development Program for the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce
• Yunus Hoosen, Economic Consul for the Department of Trade and Industry at the South African Consulate General in Chicago.

Forum Resources
• Photos from this event

Carl Liedholm is a professor of economics at Michigan State University where he has received more than ten teaching and faculty member commendations during his more than 30-year tenure there. The former economics department chair is among the world’s leading experts on micro and small enterprises in Africa, Asia, and Latin America; and international trade. He has served as Visiting Professor or Fellow around the world including Oxford University and Sussex University in the United Kingdom, the University of Amsterdam, and the University of Nigeria. Professor Liedholm has contributed to the discussion of international economic development and trade as an advisor to the National Research Council, the World Bank, the National Science Foundation, the United States Agency for International Development, and the Rockefeller Institute.

Dean Johnson - Global economic and business development has been the core focus of Dean Johnson's 17-year career. During this period, he has developed a global strategic vision that effectively integrates resources from the public, private for-profit and non-profit sectors. Following his advanced studies, Mr. Johnson embarked on a career that led to positions in all three sectors. He began working as an international trade specialist in the State of Michigan Export Development Authority. There he helped Michigan companies develop and grow their markets in Europe and Africa. He then transferred to the State's European & African Operations in Brussels, Belgium, where he served for five years as Export Director and then Managing Director. He expanded the State's presence by establishing offices in London and Germany as well as offices and representation in Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Mr. Johnson holds a Bachelor's Degree from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor Degree from Wayne State University Law School.

Yunus Hoosen was appointed Consul Economic for the Department of Trade and Industry at the South African Consulate General in Chicago, March 2001.
Mr. Hoosen started his career in Marketing and joined the Department of Trade and Industry in 1995. Mr. Hoosen has served in several positions in the Chief Directorate Export and Investment Promotion. He has worked in Export Services, Export Credit Reinsurance and as Program Manager for the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance Program. He has been the department’s Project Leader for the National Pavilion Exhibition Program. He has received training in Trade Promotion from Auztrade and the European Union. Mr. Hoosen holds a Bachelors Degree in Administration and Public Finance and a Bachelors Degree in Communication as well as a Certificate in International Trade and Export Practice.

Panelists
• Matthew Harvill, Vice President for Unemployment Compensation at Kelly Services
• Rick McHugh, Staff attorney and Midwest Coordinator with the National Employment Law Project, Inc.
• Stephen Woodbury, Professor of Economics at MSU and a Senior Economist at the W.E. Upjohn Institute

Forum Resources
• Recent Testimony on SUTA
• Presentation by Stephen Woodbury (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event

Matthew Harvill serves as Vice President for Unemployment Compensation at Kelly Services. Kelly Services has been a worldwide leader in the Staffing Industry for over fifty years.

Rick McHugh is a staff attorney and Midwest Coordinator with the National Employment Law Project, Inc. (NELP). NELP is a non-profit public policy and law office that provides technical assistance to legislators and their staff, advocates, and other policy makers involved in state-level unemployment insurance (UI) reform efforts. Mr. McHugh monitors federal UI legislative and administrative developments and participates in NELP projects involving low-wage and dislocated workers.

Stephen Woodbury is a Professor of Economics at MSU and a Senior Economist at the W.E. Upjohn Institute. He has also held appointments at Pennsylvania State University and University of Stirling (U.K.), and was Deputy Director of the Advisory Council on Unemployment Compensation with the U.S. Department of Labor. Author of several books on unemployment, Dr. Woodbury received his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Panelists
• Mike Unsworth, History and Canadian Studies Bibliographer at MSU Libraries and assistant director of Canadian Studies Centre;
• Geoff Rathbone, director of policy and planning for Solid Waste Management Services Works and Emergency Services in Toronto, Ontario;
• Andrew Campbell, director of solid waste at the Regional Municipality of York and the Ontario Centre for Municipal Best Practices on Waste Management, and;
• Todd Weiler, an adjunct professor at Washington College of Law at American University and research fellow for the Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law & Policy.

Forum Resources
• Handout from Mike Unsworth (.pdf)*
• Presentation by Geoff Rathbone (.pdf)*
• Presentation by Andrew Campbell (.pdf)*
• Photos from this event

Michigan may see a number of visits from presidential candidates and their spokespersons this year. It is claimed to be an increasingly important state of the nation in the vote for President of United States. This forum looked at why that is, Michigan's track record
for picking the Presidential winner, as well as voter turnout in November 2004.

Panelists
• David W. Rohde, Distinguished Professor, Michigan State University Department of Political Science
• Ed Sarpolous, Vice President, EPIC-MRA

Food safety and security have vast economic impacts on Michigan. How do “food safety scares,” such as the Alar-Apple scare and the Great Lakes salmon warning, affect Michigan’s economy? How does our food industry play into the international economy? What research and policy considerations are there for decision-makers in reporting and securing Michigan’s food market? This forum will address such questions during presentations by agricultural research policy expert, Larry Busch, and Les Bourquin, consumer educator on food safety.

Co-sponsors

• African Studies Center
• Asian Studies Center
• Center for Advanced Study of International Development
• Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies
• Institute for Public Policy and Social Research
• Office of the Dean of International Studies and Programs
• Women and International Development Program

Forum Resources

• Presentation by Les Bourquin (.pdf)

An up-to-date review of Michigan’s economy, including the ongoing effort to safeguard Michigan jobs and current consumer confidence levels.

Panelists (in order of appearance)
• Charles Ballard, Professor of Economics, Michigan State University
• Mitchell Bean, Director of the Michigan House Fiscal Agency
• John Czarnecki, Vice President for Community Services, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
• David Sowerby, Michigan Investment Advisory Committee and Vice President, Portfolio Manager/Chief Market Analyst, Loomis Sayles Equity Management

Forum Resources
• Topic Overview by Mitchell Bean (.pdf)*
• Unemployment Rates 1978-2003 by John Czarnecki (.xls)
• Some Thoughts on the Outlook for the Michigan Economy by Charles Ballard (.pdf)*

Speaker Quotes
• David Sowerby: "State revenues are up 10 to 12%. This is the best since the mid to late 90’s. Michigan is matching and, in some cases, outdoing national returns on cash flow. As we move into 2005, we will see interest rates as a liability, as well as possible acts of terrorism. But, overall, I will not be surprised by an upside as much as I would a downslide of Michigan’s economy."
• Mitchell Bean: "Medicaid costs are a 7.1 billion dollar drain on Michigan’s economy. This is NOT sustainable. Still, the biggest immediate risks to the economy are the unpredictable external shocks, such as terrorism or a national disaster. Barring such circumstances, we expect the state economy to expand but continue to lag when compared to the U.S."
• Charles Ballard: "Michigan’s long term investment in the state economy is best placed in educating its work force. It currently ranks 39th among the 50 states in the proportion of the population with a college degree.
• John Czarnecki: "The State of Michigan has so much to offer employers, but in hard times, it is very difficult to remain competitive for larger employers with other states as well as other countries."

Ten years ago, Michigan voters reshaped school finance by approving Proposal A.This event featured the original architects of the policy – including U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow and former Governor John Engler – who discussed the past and future of the most fundamental policy of the decade. Research experts will provide an inside glimpse of the proposal’s track record.

Forum Resources
• Event Agenda and Sponsor Information
• Michigan School Finance Under Proposal A: State Control, Local Consequences by David Arsen and David Plank (.pdf)*

The State of the State Survey (SOSS) is a quarterly, statewide, random sample, telephone survey of approximately 1,000 Michigan residents. It was established in 1994 to monitor the public mood around key issues, such as education funding, health care access, and the economy. Survey questions include ones that allow participants to rank issues in order of recommended priority for policy leaders. This forum presented survey results revealing residents' perceptions as the spring legislative session gets underway.

Panelists (in order of appearance)
Brian D. Silver, Ph.D., Director of the State of the State Survey, IPPSR
Larry Hembroff, Ph.D., Director of the Office for Survey Research, IPPSR
Nathaniel Ehrlich, Ph.D., Survey Research Specialist, IPPSR
Amy J . Baumer, M.P.A., Director of Policy Analysis, IPPSR

Forum Resources
• About the State of the State Survey (.pdf)*
• Results from the 33rd State of the State Survey (.pdf)*
• Predicting Future Economic Activity with the State of the State Survey (.pdf)*
• Dissemination of State of the State Survey Resources (.pdf)*

Panelists (in order of appearance)
Igor Vojnovic, Professor, MSU Department of Geography
Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, Director, MSU Urban Affairs Graduate Program
Marilyn Lieber, VP of Comm. Prog., Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports

Forum Resources
• Presentation by Igor Vojnovic, The Urban Built Environment and Public Health (.pdf)*
• Presentation by Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, Policy Recommendations (.pdf)*
• Presentation by Marilyn Lieber, Making Michigan More Walkable (.pdf)*

Panelists (in order of appearance)
Holly A. Madill, Public Sector Consultants
Philip D. Gardner, Collegiate Employment Research Institute at Michigan State University
Louis Glazer, Michigan Future, Inc.
Rosalyn Jones, Michigan Economic Development Council

Forum Resources
• Presentation by Rosalyn Jones, MEDC
• Presentation by Holly Madill, PSC
• Revitalizing Michigan's Central Cities: A Vision and Framework for Action Michigan Future, Inc.
• Generation "Why" Website
• Panelist Lou Glazer Featured on WKAR-AM NewsTalk 870 Politics with Bill Ballenger
• Michigan looking to offer cool cities, cool times, Booth Newspapers, May 27, 2003
• Lawmaker wants to junk school snack foods, The Macomb Daily, May 21, 2003
• 'U' helps lure graduates to MI, State News, May 15, 2003
• Panel Discusses How to Attract College Graduates to State, Gongwer News Service, Inc., Michigan Report, May 14, 2003

Panelists (in order of appearance)

• Leonard Fleck, Professor of Philosophy, MSU Center for Ethics and Humanities
• John H. Goddeeris, Professor of Economics, MSU
• Representative Stephen R. Ehardt, Chair House Health Policy Committee

Forum Resources
• Ethical and Policy Issues by Leonard Fleck
• Economic Perspective by John H. Goddeeris
• House Health Policy Sub-Committee Report provided by Stephen R. Ehardt
• IPPSR Policy Brief: Obesity in Michigan: Public or Private Issue
• Promoting Healthy Weight in Michigan by Grace Kreulen, et. al.

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Panelists (in order of appearance)
• David L. Skole, Center for Global Change and Earth Observations
• Risa Wilkerson, Director of Active Community Environments, Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports
• Mark A. Wyckoff FAICP, President, Planning & Zoning Center, Inc.

Forum Resources
• Tracking Change for Land Use Policy and PlanningDavid Skole
• Active Community Environments Risa Wilkerson
• Panelist Risa Wilkerson Featured on WKAR-AM NewsTalk 870 Politics with Bill Ballenger

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Panelists (in order of appearance)
• David N. Plank, Co-Director, MSU Education Policy Center
• Michael Flanagan, Education Policy Advisor, Office of Governor Granholm
• Dan DeGrow, Assistant Superintendent/CEO, St. Clair County Intermediate School District

Forum Resources
• Michigan’s New Public School System: What Are School Districts For? by David N.Plank

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Panelists (in order of appearance)
• Dozier Thornton, Ph.D., Acting Dean, MSU Urban Affairs Programs
• Carol S. Weissert, Ph.D., Former Director, Institute for Public Policy and Social Research
• Joe Darden, Ph.D., Professor Urban Affairs and Geography
• Carol Goss, Vice President, Skillman Foundation
• Mayor John Logie, Mayor of Grand Rapids

Forum Sponsors
• Urban Affairs Programs at Michigan State University
• Institute for Public Policy & Social Research at Michigan State University

Forum Resources
• Presentation of Survey Findings by Carol Weissert
• Presentation of Concerning Kids Survey by Carol Goss
• Executive Summary of SOSS-28 (.pdf)*.

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Abstract
Watersheds and wetlands are critical natural resources in the Great Lakes ecosystems. Both are means for protecting and improving water quality in the state. Understanding how people use, perceive, and value watersheds and wetlands will help provide insights into designing management strategies and programs. Are there variations in Michigan residents’ opinions across regional, socioeconomic, or other characteristics? This forum provided information to help officials and legislators anticipate likely sources of support or opposition to proposals for watersheds and wetlands management. More information on this topic is available on the Applied Public Policy Research Program grants page.

Panelists
Michael Kaplowitz, PhD, JD, MSU Assistant Professor, Department of Resource Development
John Kerr, PhD, MSU Assistant Professor, Department of Resource Development
Jon Bartholic, PhD, MSU Professor and Director, Institute of Water Research

Forum Resources
• Michigan Residents' Perceptions of Wetlands and Mitigation by Kaplowitz and Kerr

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Abstract
This forum observed the impact of current health policies on Michigan residents. Given the health needs of Michigan’s population, it asked the question: Do current policies designed to meet those needs continue to be effective? After identifying key health issues affecting our state, policy options for addressing those issues were discussed. This forum is aimed at informing the debate on significant health care issues as we approach the 2002 elections. It is offered in partnership with the Institute for Health Care Studies at MSU. The research presented at this forum stems out of a series of health policy white papers scheduled for release in May, 2002.

Panelists
• Vence Bonham, Jr. J.D. Assistant Professor, MSU Department of Medicine
• Grace Kreulen, R.N., Ph.D. Assistant Professor, MSU College of Nursing
• Marilyn Rothert, R.N., Ph.D., F.A.A.N., Dean, MSU College of Nursing

Forum Resources
• Webcast of Forum (88 minutes) Real Player*
• Current and Future Nursing Workforce Issues in Michigan by Marilyn Rothert
• Promoting Healthy Weight in Michigan through Physical Activity, Nutrition by Grace Kreulen
• Panel Featured on WKAR-AM NewsTalk 870 Politics with Bill Ballenger

Abstract
Michigan is a rapidly aging state, in 2025 it will look (demographically) like Florida . The number of Michiganians 65 and older is projected to grow by over 600,000 while the statewide population is projected to grow only by 400,000. The proportion of those both 65 and older and 85 and older should increase by approximately 50 percent. D