Capital University Students, Alumni and Leadership Attend First Merchants Bank Economic Forecast Event
First Merchants Bank, a multi-year OFIC scholarship donor, recently hosted its Economic Forecast breakfast event, bringing together member campus staff, students, and OFIC partners for a morning of learning, networking, and economic insight. Dr. Michael J. Hicks, the George and Frances Ball Distinguished Professor of Economics and Director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University, presented projections for 2026 and offered a compelling analysis of regional GDP growth models, highlighting industries where Ohio’s economy has opportunities to strengthen.
Attendees enjoyed a morning of delicious food, networking, and expert economic analysis. First Merchants Bank reserved a table for OFIC and member campus attendees, giving Capital students and alumni the chance to connect with industry leaders.
Capital University was represented by Shirley, a first-year international student from Kenya majoring in Business; Jennifer, a junior Business major; Nick, a recent Public Relations graduate and former OFIC intern; and Katie, Director of Career Development. Shirley noted that the forecast tied in perfectly with her macroeconomics class, making the event especially meaningful.
“The economic forecast was very insightful and tied in perfectly with my macroeconomics class, which made it especially meaningful.”
Nick reflected on his experience, saying:
"Attending the First Merchants Bank Forecast event provided valuable insight into economic trends shaping our past, present, and future across local, regional, and national markets. Dr. Michael J. Hicks delivered a compelling analysis of regional GDP growth models and highlighted key industries where Ohio’s economy has opportunities to strengthen. I consistently leave these events better informed than when I arrived and look forward to many more opportunities to engage with OFIC partners."
“I consistently leave these events better informed than when I arrived and look forward to many more opportunities to engage with OFIC partners.”
Nick, Capital University Graduate
The event showed the strong collaboration between Capital University, OFIC, and First Merchants Bank, offering students, alumni, and partners a chance to learn, connect, and prepare for Ohio’s economic future.