Dr. Caryn Vazzana

I am originally from Parma, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland, and earned my BA in Economics and Honors Mathematics from the University of Notre Dame in 1993. While at Notre Dame, I participated in a summer service project assisting with refugee resettlement in Charlotte, NC. After graduation, I completed a year of service with Volunteers for Education and Social Services (VESS), teaching kindergarten in Killeen, TX.

I then pursued graduate studies at Purdue University, where I obtained my MA in Economics in 1996 and my PhD in 2002. Since joining the faculty at Berea College in 1999, I have taught a wide range of courses, aiming to foster a growth mindset in students, encouraging them to believe in their capacity to learn through dedication and effort. My teaching philosophy emphasizes economic literacy, active student engagement, and accountability, supported by thoughtful course design.

In addition to teaching, I have served in various administrative roles, including coordinator of the Economics program since 2016 and Chair of the Economics and Business Department from 2021 to 2023.

My research focuses on the determinants of migration, particularly brain drain, as well as international trade and the pedagogy of economics.