Center for the Study of Capitalism adds Executive in Residence

August 29, 2023

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – (August 29, 2023) – Wake Forest University Center for the Study of Capitalism (CSC) today announced John Taft will join the Center as an Executive in Residence.

“John is a thoughtful, nationally recognized voice for inclusive free markets. He is a transformational leader and younger generations welcome his positive outlook on the future. The CSC executives and I welcome him into the Wake Forest community and look forward to our many collaborations,” said Christina Elson, Executive Director of the CSC.

Taft serves as Vice Chair of Baird, with a primary focus on advancing strategic opportunities for the international financial services firm. He is a trusted industry leader and has been recognized throughout his career for his strong values. He is an advocate for responsible investing and using finance to improve lives. Taft currently serves as a member of the board of directors and past chairman of the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA).

Taft has authored two books: Stewardship: Lessons Learned from the Lost Culture of Wall Street and A Force for Good: How Enlightened Finance Can Restore Faith in Capitalism. Commentary from Taft on topics covering an array of current thought-leadership from trends in finance to being an advocate for inclusion and diversity has been featured on podcasts and in the media including Barron’s and The New York Times. He regularly shares his perspective on the financial industry on his blog, Finance for the Greater Good. 

“At a time when capitalism has raised the standard of living for billions of people globally, only 20 percent of Americans feel our economy is working satisfactorily for them,” Taft said. “The Center for the Study of Capitalism is an important, much-needed advocate for our free market system.”

Taft joins the distinguished John A. Allison as Executive in Residence. The CSC’s Executive Advisors include Maria Ghazal, Alex Wilson, Bob Baker, Jay Cooper, Rob Wall, Mark Brucker, and Bill Horton. The CSC Executive Council are Warren Stephens, Billy Prim, and CSC founder John A. Allison.

The Center for the Study of Capitalism is a research and interdisciplinary teaching center within the School of Business. It fosters a better understanding of capitalism and its role in providing a path for individuals to prosper while honoring Wake Forest’s motto, Pro Humanitate (for humanity). Visit the Center’s website to learn more about its impact.