For three decades, Towson University’s Regional Economic Studies Institute Economic Outlook Forum has brought together business leaders, policymakers and community stakeholders to discuss Maryland’s economic landscape and the forces shaping its future. Hosted by TU’s Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI), the annual event offers data-driven forecasts and expert insights that influence decision-making across the state.

As RESI prepares to celebrate the 30th anniversary of this flagship event on Nov. 6, Daraius Irani, Ph.D., chief economist and vice president of business and public engagement Â鶹ɫ²¥, sat down to share what makes the forum so impactful—and what guests can look forward to this year.

Can you describe your role as chief economist of RESI?

I oversee numerous projects we conduct for state and county agencies as well as private entities. We track Maryland’s economy on a weekly and monthly basis and provide economic outlook presentations for a variety of audiences. I also regularly speak with local media about the economy.

What can guests expect from the 30th Economic Forum?

We’re preparing a brand-new economic forecast, which will be a major part of the program. The other half of the event will feature a panel of key leaders from across Maryland: Comptroller Brooke Lierman; Mary Kane, executive director of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce; Jay Simmons, a business owner; and Nykia Sanders, executive director for Community Housing in Maryland. These individuals will share their insights on both the challenges and opportunities ahead for our state.

Looking back, how did the economic forum begin and why has it remained such an important event?

The first economic forum took place in 1995, when RESI was still based at the University of Baltimore. When we moved to Towson University, we brought the event with us and continued to grow it. Over the years, it’s become a cornerstone event—one that connects business leaders, policymakers and community members to understand where Maryland’s economy is headed and what we can do collectively to strengthen it.

What do you think has made the forum successful for the past three decades?

I think it’s the consistency and credibility of our data and analysis. People know RESI provides an honest, objective look at Maryland’s economic performance. The event brings transparency to the economic outlook and sparks important conversations about growth, equity and opportunity.

What makes this 30th year special for you personally?

It’s really gratifying to see how far the forum has come and how many people it reaches now. Every year, we see returning guests who value the insights and new faces who are curious about what’s next for Maryland’s economy. Reaching this milestone is both a celebration of what we’ve accomplished and a moment to look forward to what’s ahead.

Can you provide us a teaser for the upcoming forum?

I always like to say that Maryland's economy is based on five pillars: eds, beds, meds, feds and the Port of Baltimore. Right now, all five of those sectors are facing some serious challenges in terms of the new administration and the world economy. I would say this is the overarching theme of the forum.

 

New name, same priorities

The Division of Strategic Partnerships and Applied Research has changed its name to the Division of Public and Business Engagement to reflect its role in engaging with the community and the public. Learn more.