Ohio Economic Forum 2026
Thursday, April 23, 2026
JEAN HOWER TABER STUDENT UNION, GRAND BALLROOM
303 Carroll St,
Akron, OH 44325
The University of Akron
As healthcare costs rise and medical needs grow more complex, Ohio stands at a critical moment to strengthen the systems that support its residents' well-being. Healthcare decisions, made by consumers, providers, insurers, and policymakers, shape economic outcomes across hospitals, households, and the state’s broader economy. Ohio Economic Forum 2026 will examine how smarter choices in healthcare can improve value, expand access, and create a more resilient economic future for Ohio. The Forum will explore how incentives, behavioral responses, and policy structures drive healthcare spending and outcomes, offering insight into where reforms can have the greatest impact. By addressing both the challenges and opportunities in Ohio’s healthcare landscape, Ohio Economic Forum 2026 will equip attendees with a clearer understanding of how economic principles, informed policy, and industry leadership can strengthen healthcare across the state.
Keynote Speaker & Panelist
Dr. Jason Abaluck
Professor of Economics, Yale University
Dr. Jason Abaluck is a Professor of Economics at the Yale School of Management and a Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. He earned his Ph.D. in Economics from MIT and a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University.
His research focuses on decision-making in complex environments, with an emphasis on health care, including health insurance, prescription drugs, food choice, and provider behavior. His work examines how policy tools such as information, incentives, and defaults can improve outcomes.
To view Dr. Jason Abaluck's complete bio, click here.
Panelists
Dr. T. Clifford Deveny
Advisor and CEO Emeritus, Summa Health
Dr. T. Clifford Deveny is a distinguished healthcare leader and board-certified OB/GYN who most recently served as President and CEO of Summa Health. He has led health systems through complex challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on population health, physician alignment, and value-based care.
Dr. Deveny has held senior leadership roles at Summa Health, Catholic Health Initiatives, and Locus Health, where he advanced clinically integrated networks and population health strategies. He earned his medical degree from the University of Toledo Medical Center and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Denison University.
To view Dr. T. Clifford Deveny's complete bio, click here.
Ms. Amy Rohling McGee
President, Health Institure of Ohio
Amy Rohling McGee is President of the Health Policy Institute of Ohio, a role she has held since 2010. Under her leadership, HPIO has become a trusted source for data-driven, evidence-informed health policy analysis.
She brings more than 20 years of experience in health policy, government relations, and stakeholder engagement, with prior roles in state government and as executive director of the Ohio Association of Free Clinics. McGee holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from The Ohio State University.
To view Amy Rohling McGee's complete bio, click here.
State Senator Casey Weinstein
Ohio's 28th Senate District
Senator Casey Weinstein represents Ohio’s 28th Senate District and previously served three terms in the Ohio House. His legislative priorities include support for veterans, public education, healthcare access, and renewable energy. He serves as the ranking Democrat on the Senate Armed Services, Veterans Affairs, & Public Safety Committee and the Government Oversight and Reform Committee.
A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Senator Weinstein served on active duty before earning an M.B.A. from The Ohio State University. He brings experience in public service, business, and technology, and currently works as a Regional Vice President at UiPath.
To view State Senator Casey Weinstein's complete bio, click here.
Ohio Economic Forum
This annual event allows UA students and faculty, business professionals, civic leaders, and other community members to hear from a keynote speaker and panel of experts as they discuss economic issues facing Northeast Ohio and beyond.
The event's proceeds will fund scholarships and experiential learning activities for students pursuing degrees in the Economics department. An estimated 200-250 people, including approximately 70 students, are expected to attend.
Sponsorship Opportunities
GOLD Sponsorship $5,000
Includes two reserved tables for 16 attendees; recognition during event welcome comments; 16 VIP tickets to private event with keynote speaker; signage on table; and logo and company link on College of Business website, and event materials
SILVER Sponsorship $2,500
Includes one reserved table for 8 attendees; signage on table; and logo and company link on College of Business website, and event materials
BRONZE Sponsorship $500
Includes one reserved table for 8 attendees and signage at table
For questions regarding sponsorship, please contact Alan Bedingfield at abedingfield@uakron.edu.