Jamshid Damooei

Jamshid Damooei is a Professor of Economics and Director of the Economics Program at California Lutheran University's School of Business. He also serves as the Executive Director of the Center for Economics of Social Issues (CESI), which he co-founded in 1999. His work bridges academic research with practical policy applications, focusing on how economic forces shape social outcomes and opportunities for vulnerable populations.

Dr. Damooei's research spans multiple critical areas of economic policy:

• Economic analyses of social issues with emphasis on children and youth development
• Public policy evaluation and impact assessment
• Regional economic analysis, particularly for California's Central Coast
• Immigration economics and demographic studies
• International development economics, especially in crisis-affected regions

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on translating complex economic concepts into actionable policy insights. The 2025 study on 'Affording a Dignified Life on The Central Coast of California' examines the growing gap between economic growth and quality of life, while his 2024 research on undocumented immigrants provides empirical evidence to counter common misconceptions. These works demonstrate his commitment to evidence-based policy making that addresses real-world challenges.

Dr. Damooei has received significant recognition for his contributions:

• President Award for Teaching Excellence at California Lutheran University (2006)
• Huffington Post recognition as an influential Iranian-American (2017)
• Provost Distinguished Scholar Award (2017-18)

As Executive Director of CESI, he has secured numerous research grants from community foundations and government agencies, including three major studies for the Ventura County Community Foundation. His consulting work extends to Boys & Girls Clubs, Public Health departments, United Way, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and various nonprofit organizations across California.

The Center for Economics of Social Issues, under Dr. Damooei's leadership, maintains an extensive database on Ventura County's economic conditions and hosts regular conferences that bring together policymakers, community leaders, and researchers to address pressing social and economic challenges facing the region.