We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Shawn Arita to the Agricultural Risk Policy Center (ARPC) at NDSU as Senior Research Economist and Associate Director. Dr. Arita joins ARPC from the USDA Office of the Chief Economist, where he played a lead role in responding to agricultural trade disruptions, pandemic-related market volatility, and the design of major risk management programs.

With over 12 years of federal experience, Dr. Arita has led high-level economic modeling and policy evaluation efforts, advised national and international institutions, and managed multimillion-dollar research collaborations with universities across the country. He has authored over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles and policy briefs—with 1,500 Google Scholar citations.

"I’m excited to support a center that’s deeply engaged in practical, producer-focused research," Arita said. "It’s an honor to join ARPC’s outstanding team and help shape the next chapter of its work."

His strategic vision and policy insight will help ARPC expand its reach and deliver timely, trusted analysis to stakeholders across the agricultural sector.