Chad WhitzelGraduate Student

I am interested in researching how public and regulatory policy affect household financial decision-making, particularly how information sources, education, and social behavior contribute to the interpretation and understanding of laws, regulations, and financial information. I am also interested in researching the intersection of behavioral economics and decision-making with mental health, particularly Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

I am an active financial planner by profession and hope to utilize my skills working with clients to inform my research in the future. Before entering financial planning, I also worked in both auditing and tax accounting. With my work in these areas, and financial planning specifically, I have seen clients every day that experience the positives and negatives of how our financial, tax, and policy systems play an integral role in their lives. These areas of daily life can be monotonous, frustrating, and confusing for many consumers. What this tends to mean for the average consumer is that the inundation of information, jargon, and assumed knowledge from experts creates a whirlwind that can make decision-making a paralyzing feat.

Some goals of mine during my PhD program are to be able to teach aspiring financial planners and Consumer Science students, contribute to local financial education nonprofit organizations, and improve consumer advocacy policy and financial empowerment. I have a deep appreciation for learning and believe that education is a powerful tool for understanding diverse perspectives, connecting with people, and fostering fundamental human connections.

Awards and Recognition

• Robert L. Hueston Endowed Scholar, Bridgewater College Department of Economics and Business Administration

Certifications

• Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®)
• Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®)