Events
In addition to proving world-class economic research and forecasting, CERF economists regularly speak on a wide-range of topics, industries, and economic issues–both nationally and locally.
2026 Ventura County Economic Forecast Event
Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 | 8:30am | Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks
Broken Inheritance: How Today’s Decisions Handicap the Next Generation
From serial government deficits to stringent growth controls, decisions made years ago have shaped the current state of the economy. And decisions made today will have major consequences for future generations. CERF Executive Director Matthew Fienup will present the 2026 Ventura County Economic Forecast publication, with in-depth analysis of the county’s economic performance and the role of local policies in shaping growth. Fienup will also provide detailed discussion of the state of Ventura County agriculture. Featured Speaker Veronique de Rugy will discuss the economic and social costs of government debt, underscoring the critical importance of putting the country on a sound fiscal path.
Matthew Fienup, PhD
Executive Director of the Center for Economic Research & Forecasting
Veronique de Rugy, PhD
Chair of Political Economy at George Mason University, Nationally Syndicated Columnist
Tickets
$75 for early admission / $105 at the door
Free with Cal Lutheran ID
Economics in Plain English
Matthew Fienup, Executive Director of the California Lutheran University Center for Economic Research and Forecasting, is available for speaking engagements.
Fienup has entertained and engaged hundreds of different audiences, with presentations on a wide range of topics. He is a particularly informative and relevant speaker on the one topic that interests virtually everyone: the economy. Best of all, Fienup explains economics in plain English.
Fienup is frequently quoted in print, electronic and broadcast media and has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, MarketWatch, NBC News, CNBC, MSNBC, CBS Radio News, the Hill, Telemundo, and the Economist Magazine. His Op-eds have appeared in the Ventura County Star, Pacific Coast Business Times, San Fernando Valley Business Journal, and the Orange County Register.
For more information on our speaking fees and how to book Matthew Fienup as a speaker, please contact:
Tim Gallagher
Gallagher Public Relations
(805) 276-2110
timgal2@gmail.com