Exploring the American Dream

Brown School panel discussion takes place April 18

What is the American Dream’s role in today’s society? Experts from Washington University in St. Louis will explore this question in a panel discussion at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, in Brown Hall Lounge on the Danforth Campus.

Panelists are:

  • Steven Fazzari, PhD, professor of economics in Arts & Sciences;
  • Carter W. Lewis, playwright-in-residence in the Performing Arts Department in Arts & Sciences; and
  • Mark R. Rank, PhD, the Herbert S. Hadley Professor of Social Welfare at the Brown School.

Fazzari, an expert on macroeconomics, and Rank, an expert on poverty, are currently teaching the popular course “The Economic Realities of the American Dream.”

Over the past few years, Rank has interviewed people from all walks of life for an upcoming book on the tenuous nature of the American Dream in today’s society. Lewis is working with Rank to adapt some of these interviews for the stage.

Following comments from the panel, Edward F. Lawlor, PhD, dean of the Brown School and the William E. Gordon Distinguished Professor, will lead a discussion with the audience.

The Brown School Alumni Association is hosting the event, which is free and open to the public.

To register, email reism@wustl.edu or (314) 935-4780.