Hardin-Simmons University Welcomes Economist Dr. Michael J. Hicks for Annual Ray Lewis Lecture

The annual Ray Lewis Lecture drew a packed audience to the Johnson Building on Wednesday, September 17, as Hardin-Simmons University hosted returning speaker Dr. Michael J. Hicks for a wide-ranging discussion on economic growth, quality of life, and the growing influence of data centers on modern communities.

Dr. Hicks, the George and Frances Ball Distinguished Professor of Economics and Director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University, is a nationally recognized economist whose research on tax incentives, the economic impact of Walmart, and regional development has been featured in The Economist, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. Invited back for a third visit, he delivered an engaging update on his ongoing research, focusing on quality-of-life indicators and the economic impact of data centers.

During his presentation, Dr. Hicks explained how quality of life has become a driving force in where people choose to live and work, pointing out that communities across Texas, particularly cities like Abilene, are benefiting from this shift. He highlighted population trends showing families and businesses moving to Texas in search of a lower cost of living, strong schools, reliable infrastructure, and cultural amenities. Quality of life, he said, is a foundation for economic growth, with people often moving for opportunity but staying where life is good.

Dr. Hicks also presented new data on the rapid expansion of data centers and the unique opportunities and challenges they bring to mid-sized cities. These large-scale facilities, he explained, can strengthen local tax bases and create new jobs, but they also require careful planning to meet energy and infrastructure needs. He emphasized that data-driven policy decisions, particularly investments in education and community amenities, are essential for cities to remain competitive as technology continues to reshape the economy.

Connecting these national trends to Abilene’s future, Dr. Hicks encouraged local leaders and students to consider how Hardin-Simmons and the wider community can leverage quality-of-life advantages to attract new residents and businesses. He underscored the role of higher education as a key factor, explaining that universities not only educate a skilled workforce but also enhance the cultural and social fabric of their cities. With the rise of artificial intelligence creating new opportunities across industries, he spoke about the importance of helping students learn how AI works so they can graduate ready to be strong assets to the organizations they join.

The luncheon also provided a valuable networking opportunity, with HSU students seated alongside business and civic leaders to foster conversation, mentorship, and professional connections. The event was generously underwritten by Blake Fulenwider Automotive Companies, whose support helps bring nationally recognized speakers to HSU each year, and was coordinated by Dr. John Hill, professor of economics in the Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies, who organizes and hosts the lecture annually.

Looking Ahead

The next Ray Lewis Lecture will take place on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, featuring Daniel Oney, Ph.D., research director at the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. Dr. Oney focuses on developing analytical and forecasting frameworks for Texas commercial real estate markets. With more than a year of regional data center development to observe and continued national and statewide economic shifts, his insights into Abilene and Texas commercial real estate will offer valuable perspective for business leaders, students, and community members alike.