Degree Name
Master of Science
Graduate Program
Agribusiness Economics
Advisor
Sanders, Dwight R
Abstract
Since 2020, economies across the country and world have been recovering from one of the most unique and impactful events in modern history, COVID-19. The pandemic had an impact on both regional economies and national economies alike. Unlike most counties, Alexander County, Illinois was struggling before the pandemic. There were plans in place by the state government to hopefully improve the economic well-being of the area, but most of those projects were paused in the wake of COVID-19. This paper will examine the history of the county, various economic sectors, and the challenges faced ahead. The paper will conclude with a recommendation for the county’s economic strategy, as well as external assistance that could potentially reverse the decline of the county’s economic well-being.