For over 40 years, professor emeritus Gene Wagner brought passion and conviction to the economics department at UMKC’s College of Arts and Sciences. While he taught all aspects of economics throughout his career, he may be best known for his classes on labor economics. He was sometimes controversial, always energetic, and he made a lasting impression on students, particularly those who believe in the importance of labor’s contribution to our society.
To honor his service to UMKC and the impact he had on his students, the Gene Wagner Honorary Scholarship in Economics has been established. The scholarship will provide financial aid for deserving undergraduate students who have family, personal and financial backgrounds supportive of organized labor, and who are pursing a degree in economics at UMKC.
The Wagner Scholarship is an outstanding way to educate tomorrow’s labor leaders while recognizing the influence and commitment that Wagner brought to UMKC and his students.
