Richard Baker

Richard Baker is an Associate Professor of Economics at the Department of Economics, School of Business, The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). His research focuses on Economic History, Labor Economics, Development Economics, Applied Econometrics, and Education Economics.

• Ph.D. in Economics, Boston University (2014)
• M.A. in Political Economy, Boston University (2013)
• B.A. in Economics, Clemson University (2007)

His work explores historical economic policies, labor market dynamics, and educational resource allocation, particularly in the early 20th-century U.S. South. He has published extensively on topics such as antitrust policy, the impact of agricultural pests on education, and budget fluctuations affecting African-American schools.

Recent publications include "Political Discretion and Antitrust Policy: Evidence from the Assassination of President McKinley" (The Journal of Law and Economics, 2023) and "The Success of Crowdfunding Projects: Technology, Globalization, and Geographic Distance" (Economics of Innovation and New Technology, 2022). His research often combines historical data with econometric analysis to assess long-term societal impacts.

Scientific Awards & Grants

• Spencer Foundation Grant (2016-2018): Race, Family Background, and Educational Attainment in the Early Twentieth-Century South ($48,891)

Richard serves on the PRC (Program Review Committee) and School of Business Curriculum Committee. He advises the TCNJ Economics Club and is an active member of the Economic History Association. His teaching includes courses on American/European Economic History, Labor Economics, Game Theory, and Microeconomics.