Economics professor named new WIPPS Fellow

An economics professor noted for his involvement in health policy and the economics of medical care has joined WIPPS as a Senior Fellow in Economics.

Merton (Marty) Finkler, Ph.D., retired in June from Lawrence University in Appleton. His 37-year career with Lawrence went beyond the scope of teaching. He was the driving force in launching Lawrence’s successful innovation and entrepreneurship program, as well as one of the architects of the university’s popular interdisciplinary Sustainable China Program that connects the classroom to on-the-ground experiences in China.

Known as an expert in the field of health care, Marty delivered the keynote address at a WIPPS-sponsored public forum in 2013 called, “It’s Here: The Federal Health Insurance Marketplace in Wisconsin.” He continues to work with WIPPS Director Eric Giordano and WIPPS Health Policy Fellow Dr. Corrie Norrbom on developing a community health business partnership for Marathon County.

Marty said he is excited to apply what he has learned about health care to identify ways to cost-effectively improve the health of Marathon County residents. “This community health project is a perfect example of the ‘Wisconsin Idea’ – linking the knowledge of the academic world with the practical needs of a specific community.”

In his free time, Marty enjoys bicycle riding and traveling to new places. He and his wife, Chris, enjoy hiking and experiencing the food and culture of the countries they have visited. They have two adult children, Jacob and Lisa.