Anita Summers: Professor of Public Policy at Penn dies at 98

Anita Summers, an American educator and a luminary in her field, passed away on October 22, 2023, at the age of 98.

Her illustrious career, dedicated to shaping the landscape of public policy education, has left an enduring legacy.

Summers’ journey through the world of academia began in 1967 when she commenced her teaching career at Swarthmore College.

Her passion for economics and her dedication to fostering knowledge quickly propelled her into leadership roles in the realm of urban economics.

One of her most notable positions was as the head of the urban economic department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia from 1971 to 1979.

During her tenure at the Federal Reserve, her insights and expertise were invaluable in understanding the dynamics of urban economics.

In 1979, Anita Summers embarked on an illustrious chapter of her career when she joined the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

At Wharton, she made history by establishing the first public policy department within a business school. Her visionary leadership and commitment to innovative education reshaped the way students and scholars approached the subject of public policy.

Summers’ dedication to her field was further exemplified when she chaired the public policy department at Wharton from 1983 to 1988.

Her tenure saw the department flourish, attracting both aspiring students and accomplished scholars who were eager to learn under her mentorship.

Beyond her academic achievements, Summers was deeply engaged in University activities, contributing to the University of Pennsylvania in multifaceted ways.

She was a member of the Provost’s Academic Planning and Budget Committee from 1984 to 1990, demonstrating her commitment to the broader educational community.

In recognition of her wisdom, empathy, and ability to resolve conflicts, Summers served as the Ombudsman of the University of Pennsylvania from 2001 to 2003.

Furthermore, Summers held the position of a senior research fellow at Wharton’s Samuel Zell and Robert Lurie Real Estate Center.

Her expertise extended to the real estate industry, and she authored and edited numerous books and reports that illuminated the complexities of this sector.

Summers’ contributions to the world of public policy, education, and economics will continue to inspire generations of students and scholars.