Cathleen Johnson

Cathleen Johnson is an Associate Professor of Economics at West Virginia University, holding the prestigious Kendrick Chair of Economics and serving as Director of the Center for an Ethical Economy. She additionally serves as Assistant Chair of the Economics Department.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Economics, Virginia Tech, 2000
• Post-doctoral fellowship with Nobel Laureate Vernon Smith, 2001

Research Focus: Dr. Johnson's work centers on Ethics in Economics, demonstrated through her leadership of the Center for an Ethical Economy and co-authorship of Commercial Society: A Primer on Ethics and Economics (2019). She is a leading expert in Experimental Economics, specializing in large-scale field experiments developed during her collaboration with Vernon Smith. Her research spans Behavioral Economics, Network Theory, and innovative approaches to Economics Education with particular emphasis on improving numeracy skills across diverse populations.

Professional Engagement:

• Board of Directors, Arizona Council for Economic Education

Scientific Recognition: While no specific awards are documented in the source material, her appointment to the Kendrick Chair of Economics represents a significant institutional honor.

Academic Leadership: As Director of the Center for an Ethical Economy and Assistant Department Chair, Dr. Johnson oversees strategic research initiatives, curriculum development, and departmental operations while maintaining an active research agenda.

Research Infrastructure: She directs the Center for an Ethical Economy, which serves as an interdisciplinary hub for examining the intersection of economic systems and ethical frameworks through empirical research and policy analysis.