Ph.D. Student Spotlight: Anne Carroll

For Anne Carroll, pursuing a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Applied Economics (AAEC) at Virginia Tech is more than an academic journey—it's a continuation of a deep connection to the university and a calling to serve communities worldwide.

Originally from Williamsburg, Virginia, Anne earned her undergraduate degree at Virginia Tech in International Public Policy. 

Toward the end of Anne's undergraduate studies, she had the opportunity to engage in research with Assistant Professor Elinor Benami, who later became her doctoral advisor.

Their project focused on the future of olive production in Morocco under climate change. Preliminary results showed that growing conditions in northern regions may be more favorable than in the south, highlighting the need for different adaptation strategies.

"That experience deeply influenced my academic path and introduced me to the scientific foundations of effective policy-making." 

Outside the classroom, Anne has interned with several Christian organizations focused on disaster relief and poverty alleviation around the globe. These experiences sparked important questions for her—about how best to support communities with varying market structures, access to resources, and environmental vulnerabilities.

Now, through her Ph.D. studies, she’s exploring those questions with a focus on agricultural risk management and natural hazards. “Studying applied economics and beginning my own research has allowed me to pursue answers to these questions,” she explains.

With a passion for both rigorous research and meaningful impact, Anne exemplifies the mission of the department: using economic insight to solve real-world challenges.

Research interests: Development Economics, Environmental and Natural Resources Economics, and Natural Disaster Impact-Based Forecasting 

Advisor: Elinor Benami

Anticipated graduation year: 2028

Email: annedb20@vt.edu