2025 Samuel Z. Westerfield Award Recipient, Dr. Patrick L. Mason

Dr. Patrick L. Mason is Chair and professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he brings a wealth of expertise and passion to his research and teaching. With a Ph.D. in Economics from the New School for Social Research, Dr. Mason’s academic journey has been marked by a deep commitment to addressing questions related to labor, political economy, development, education, social identity, and crime. His research delves into critical issues such as racial inequality, educational achievement, and income distribution. He investigates the complex intersections of family environments and socioeconomic wellbeing, while also examining the impact of transitions in family structure and public policy on communities. 

Additionally, he explores pressing contemporary topics, including racial profiling, the effects of computerization on employment, and innovation within Caribbean economies. He is the general editor of the International Encyclopedia of Race and Racism, 2nd Edition (Macmillan Reference USA, 2013) and the author of the recent book The Economics of Structural Racism (Cambridge University Press, 2023), Dr. Mason has authored nearly 100 journal articles, book chapters, and other publications to the field.

Dr. Mason is not only an esteemed academic but also a leader in his field. He served as President of the National Economic Association in 2002. He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Partners for Dignity & Rights (formerly known as the National Economic & Social Rights Initiative), and as a member of the Board of Directors for the Fair Foods Standards Council. His service to the profession has focused on enhancing diversity in economics, including serving as the Program director of the AEA Committee on the Status of Minority Groups in the Economics Profession Mentoring Program (2009-2013), a mentor for Diversity Initiative for Tenure in Economics (DITE) and creating and moderating the NEA and ASHE listservs.

Before his current role, Dr. Mason held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, including Florida State University, the University of Notre Dame, Wayne State University, the University of California – Riverside, the University of Michigan – Flint, Tuskegee University, and an adjunct position at Atlanta University.

Born and raised in Sebring, Florida, a quaint town with a population of just 6,000, Dr. Mason’s early experiences shaped his commitment to social justice. He worked in the fields with his family and neighbors, harvesting oranges, watermelons, tomatoes, and cucumbers. His academic journey began with a scholarship to St. Edward’s University, a small Catholic institution in Austin, Texas, setting the stage for a remarkable career dedicated to addressing economic disparities and advancing equity.