Darity Named 2024 Distinguished Fellow by the American Economic Association

William "Sandy" Darity, Jr., the Samuel DuBois Cook Professor of Public Policy, African and African American Studies, and Economics, has been named a Distinguished Fellow by the American Economic Association (AEA) for 2024. This recognition is a testament to Darity's extraordinary contributions to the field of economics and his unwavering dedication to advancing social equity. This prestigious award is one of the highest honors for economists.

Darity's appointment as one of only four recipients of the 2024 Distinguished Fellow Awards by the AEA underscores his profound impact on economic scholarship and policy discourse. Throughout his distinguished career, Darity has been at the forefront of research on economic inequality, discrimination, and public policy, particularly emphasizing racial disparities. His groundbreaking work has reshaped our understanding of these complex issues and has paved the way for transformative change.

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As the founding director of the Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity at Sanford, Darity has played a pivotal role in fostering interdisciplinary research and dialogue to address inequality and promote social justice. Under his leadership, the Cook Center has emerged as a leading voice in the quest for economic equity, driving meaningful progress toward a more inclusive society.

Darity's commitment to mentorship and advocacy has also left an indelible mark on our community, inspiring students, scholars, and practitioners alike to confront pressing social challenges with compassion and rigor. His tireless efforts to amplify marginalized voices and champion equitable policies reflect the core values of the Sanford School of Public Policy and serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.

In congratulating Darity on behalf of Sanford, Manoj Mohanan, Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Research in the Sanford School of Public Policy, remarked: "Sandy Darity's selection as a Distinguished Fellow by the AEA is a testament to his unparalleled dedication to advancing economic equity and social justice. His pioneering research and unwavering advocacy have transformed the field of economics and inspired generations of scholars to strive for a more just and equitable world."

Darity hopes this award can be a catalyst for other researchers as well. “I’m thrilled to receive this recognition from my peers in the economics profession. It is a welcome validation for years of work pushing outside the boundaries set by conventional beliefs about social inequality and racial disparity. I hope this will uplift and encourage other economists engaged in social justice research.”