ASU agribusiness professor receives highest honor from IAAE

Ashok Mishra's lifetime contributions to agricultural economics were recognized at the International Association of Agricultural Economists' global conference in India.

Ashok Mishra, a leading figure in agribusiness at Arizona State University, has been honored with the highest distinction from the International Association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE). At the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists in New Delhi, India, in August, Mishra was named an Honorary Life Member — a recognition reserved for those who have made enduring contributions to agricultural economics and demonstrated unwavering dedication to the field.

"It is an honor and a privilege to have been recognized among such distinguished fellow peers, mentors, and colleagues in the field of applied economics," says Mishra, the Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation Chair in Food Management.

Bridging knowledge gaps for a sustainable future

This year's conference theme, "Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems," highlights how agricultural economics professionals can bridge knowledge gaps and address policy issues to create more sustainable food systems. Reflecting on the broader impact of this recognition, Mishra notes that it "represents the transferring of knowledge, ideas, technology, and analysis to better serve producers, firms, agribusinesses, and consumers around developing and emerging economies working together to elevate and enhance the common good."

His focus on forecasting economic changes — whether social, policy-related, or environmental — has been instrumental in helping agribusinesses adapt to an evolving landscape. He emphasizes the importance of research in developing adaptation strategies that ensure the profitability and sustainability of farming enterprises. "This research will impart knowledge and understanding of food systems, technological changes, climate change, and sustainability to agricultural enterprises."

Mishra joined the W. P. Carey School of Business as Kemper and Ethel Marley Chair in Food Management in 2015. His research focuses on food policy, global agribusiness performance, farmland valuation, and food security factors in developing nations. With a prolific output, Mishra has published more than 240 articles in refereed journals, six books, and 26 book chapters, earning more than 15,000 citations (h-index 67) in Google Scholar. Recognized for his impact, RePEc (Research Papers in Economics) ranks him in the top 5% of economists worldwide and the top 2% of agricultural economists. His work has earned a multitude of prestigious research and teaching awards, including multiple accolades for outstanding journal articles published in top-tier, peer-reviewed journals.

Leading with passion and purpose

Mishra's contributions extend beyond research to leadership in the agricultural and applied economics profession. He has served in various editorial roles and on the editorial boards of multiple professional journals. Notably, he co-edited Agricultural Economics: An International Journal, from 2015 to 2024, and has served as editor-in-chief of Agribusiness: An International Journal since 2023 and as the series editor for the Routledge Studies in Agricultural Economics. His dedication to the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association (AAEA) is evident through his roles as director in the AAEA Board of Directors, chair of several committees, and his mentorship of early career professionals, reflecting his commitment to the field's growth and development.

Despite receiving one of the highest honors in his field, Mishra views this recognition not as a culmination, but as a continuation of his lifelong dedication to solving real-world problems. "Receiving this award doesn’t change anything moving forward," he says. "I love working hard, and for me, research is a way to tackle critical issues that lie ahead and develop solutions that can be applied within the food business."

Inspiring the next generation of agribusiness innovators

Mishra acknowledges the support that has been instrumental in his success. He credits the Marley Chair in Food Management with providing the financial resources needed to accelerate his research activities and inspire new avenues of inquiry. "The Marley Chair has provided crucial financial support to advance my research activities, fostering collaboration with students and economists in Arizona and globally," Mishra explains.

He also expresses gratitude for the opportunity to mentor the next generation of scholars and industry leaders. "Graduate students have benefited from the generous support of the Marley Chair in conducting timely research and presenting their work at various national and international conferences. This award and the chair enable me to share my passion for scholarship with those who are interested in the challenges of the global food and agribusiness system."

Looking forward, Mishra believes this recognition will inspire current and future students. “This achievement can spark new research, innovative business ventures, and a deeper appreciation for conducting thorough and meaningful research.”