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FRI is pleased to announce the inaugural class of its Utility Policy Fellows program, made possible through the generous support of the Sloan Foundation. These three accomplished individuals bring significant expertise in critical areas of the regulated utility sector, establishing a strong foundation for FRI’s impactful research and analysis in this vital field.
Dr. Joseph Duggan joins the fellows cohort from the University of Dayton. He specializes in industrial organization with a focus on the design and regulation of wholesale electricity markets. His work as an associate editor for Renewable Energy Focus and co-editor for the energy markets section of Current Sustainable/Renewable Energy Reports highlights his deep engagement with the latest developments in the field. Dr. Duggan earned his PhD from The Ohio State University.
Duggan, OSU
Dr. Nyakundi Michieka comes to FRI from California State University, Bakersfield, where he specializes in regional issues within energy, environmental economics, and policy. As the Director of the Center for Economic Education and Research (CEER), Dr. Michieka has demonstrated strong leadership in research initiatives and has successfully secured significant grant funding. His insights into the regional dimensions of energy challenges will be a valuable asset to FRI. Dr. Michieka holds a PhD from West Virginia University.
Michieka, CSUB
Kristina Pitman, a PhD candidate at the Colorado School of Mines (Mines) and a researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), brings focus to the impacts of renewable energy integration on markets. Her current work examines the effects of clean electricity tax credits, a crucial area as the energy landscape evolves. Ms. Pitman holds a master’s in mineral and energy economics from Mines.
Pitman, Mines
As the inaugural cohort, these fellows will contribute their unique perspectives and expertise to FRI’s research efforts, fostering collaboration between academia and the utility industry from the program’s inception. Their work will help inform policy discussions and advance understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities facing the regulated utility sector. The support of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation is instrumental in launching this important initiative.
Learn more about the program: FRI-RULI-Sloan Scholars
Learn more about the grant: FRI-Sloan-Grant-Announcement
About FRI
The Financial Research Institute (FRI) advances unbiased research, education, and collaboration for sound, innovative public utility policy & regulation. For 30+ years, its broad network has empowered policymakers and industry leaders with economic and regulatory guidance. FRI is proudly supported by the University of Missouri, an AAU, Research 1, and federal land-grant institution.