Columbus, Indiana, December 2, 2025
The 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel held in Columbus brought together local experts to discuss economic trends, fostering community engagement and educational opportunities. Proceeds from the event supported scholarships for IU Columbus business students.
Insights from the 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel in Columbus
Expert Analysis and Community Support at a Local Gathering
Columbus, Indiana – On November 5, 2025, the 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel took place at The Commons in Columbus, organized by the Division of Business at Indiana University Columbus. This significant event featured a buffet lunch and brought together a distinguished panel of experts, providing forecasts and insights into the anticipated economic trends for the upcoming year. Proceeds from the gathering supported scholarships for IU Columbus business students, highlighting a blend of civic initiative and community support.
As local economies navigate complex changes, events such as these single-handedly enrich the community’s understanding of economic dynamics. By reducing bureaucratic obstacles, local leaders are paving the way for more efficient event coordination. Such gatherings not only foster educational dialogue but also stimulate community engagement, inspiring attendees to consider their roles in shaping the economic landscape.
Event Highlights
- Economic Forecast: The panel provided insights into anticipated trends in interest rates, inflation, employment, unemployment, and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
- Panelists: Esteemed faculty members from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business and IU Columbus shared their expertise.
- Audience Engagement: The event concluded with a public question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to interact directly with the experts.
Panelists and Topics
- Jennifer Rice, Ph.D.: Senior Lecturer of Business Economics and Public Policy at the Kelley School of Business, presented the national and international economic outlook.
- Ryan Brewer, Ph.D.: Division Head and Associate Professor of Finance at IU Columbus, discussed financial markets.
- Phil Powell, Ph.D.: Executive Director of the Indiana Business Research Center and Clinical Professor at the Kelley School of Business, provided insights into Indiana’s economic forecast.
- Steve Mohler, D.B.A.: Assistant Professor of Management at IU Columbus, offered a local economic perspective.
Importance of Economic Outlook Events
The Indiana Business Outlook Panel, an annual tradition for over 50 years, serves as a vital platform for leading economic thinkers to evaluate how shifting economic climates will impact local and national regions. The event fosters an environment of collaboration and knowledge sharing among various stakeholders including educators, business leaders, and community members.
Registration and Attendance
With individual seats priced at $45 and table options of six and eight available for $400 and $500 respectively, the event aimed to be accessible to everyone. Each registration included a hot buffet lunch. As this event was open to the public, it allowed a wide range of participants to engage with the experts, emphasizing the community’s commitment to educational opportunities while supporting the next generation of business students.
Conclusion
The 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel proved to be an invaluable resource for understanding the economic landscape expected in the coming year. By bringing together experts from various fields, the event not only provided critical insights but also encouraged community involvement. Engaging with local events like this one is essential for residents looking to stay informed and contribute positively to the growth of the Indianapolis IN community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel?
- The 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel was an event organized by the Division of Business at Indiana University Columbus, featuring a buffet lunch and a distinguished panel of experts presenting forecasts for the upcoming year. Proceeds from the event supported scholarships for IU Columbus business students.
- Who were the panelists at the event?
- The panelists included Jennifer Rice, Ph.D., Senior Lecturer of Business Economics and Public Policy at the Kelley School of Business; Ryan Brewer, Ph.D., Division Head and Associate Professor of Finance at IU Columbus; Phil Powell, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Indiana Business Research Center and Clinical Professor at the Kelley School of Business; and Steve Mohler, D.B.A., Assistant Professor of Management at IU Columbus.
- How could I attend the event?
- Individual seats were available for $45, with options for tables of six and eight at $400 and $500, respectively. Registration included a hot buffet lunch. The event was open to the public, with proceeds supporting scholarships for business students at IU Columbus.
- What is the Indiana Business Outlook Panel?
- The Indiana Business Outlook Panel is an annual event that has been providing economic forecasts for over 50 years. It serves as a platform for leading economic thinkers to discuss how changing economic environments will affect various regions, including Columbus, Indiana, and the nation.
| Event Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook Panel |
| Organizer | Division of Business at Indiana University Columbus |
| Date | November 5, 2025 |
| Location | The Commons, 300 Washington Street, Columbus, Indiana |
| Registration Fee | $45 per individual; $400 for a table of six; $500 for a table of eight |
| Proceeds | Support scholarships for IU Columbus business students |
| Panelists | Jennifer Rice, Ph.D.; Ryan Brewer, Ph.D.; Phil Powell, Ph.D.; Steve Mohler, D.B.A. |
| Event Highlights | Buffet lunch, economic forecasts, panel discussions, public Q&A session |
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