A professorship is being created to honor and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Ken Elzinga, one of the most beloved professors at the University of Virginia.
During his 43-year (and continuing!) career at the University, Professor Elzinga has taught nearly 40,000 students in Econ 201. And, he has launched the careers of many in Econ 420, his Antitrust Policy class, which often has a two-year wait list. His legendary reputation as a teacher and scholar has fueled the popularity of the Department of Economics, which has more than 350 graduates each year - approximately 15% of the class. Students who majored in other disciplines have also been drawn to classes in the Department of Economics, largely because of Professor Elzinga's reputation. Each fall, Professor Elzinga's introductory economics course attracts more than one thousand students and is the largest class offered at the University of Virginia.
Leading by example, Professor Elzinga has inspired his faculty colleagues to pursue a balance between scholarly research and teaching. Countless students who have gone on to flourishing careers in law, business, finance, public service, and many other vocations look back on their experiences as economics students as formative in their careers and, inevitably, their lives.
Today, as in Mr. Jefferson's time, the University is only as strong as its faculty. An endowed professorship is one of the most coveted honors a faculty member can receive—more than any other honor, it is a testament to a scholar's standing among peers, both within the University and throughout the academic world.
Your support for the Kenneth G. Elzinga Professorship in Economics and the Law will play an important role in the University's aspiration to make the Department of Economics a premier department. This professorship will provide the means to attract, retain, and reward an exceptionally gifted teacher who will raise the profile of the department and be a leader in the field, following in the footsteps of Professor Elzinga. Contributing to an endowed professorship in Ken Elzinga's name will also create a lasting tribute to this exceptional professor.
The fundraising goal to endow the Kenneth G. Elzinga Professorship in Economics and the Law is $3 million. To contribute, visit us online at giving.virginia.edu/elzingafund and designate your gift to the Kenneth G. Elzinga Professorship in Economics. You can make your gift online or call the Arts & Sciences Development Office at (434) 924-7213 to receive a pledge form or for additional information.