Joseph Fruehauf, a recent graduate of Northwest Nazarene University, has been named the first recipient of Mountain States Policy Center's Sawtooth Leadership Academy scholarship.
Fruehauf was one of a half-dozen students to participate in the SLA's inaugural class.
The yearly, limited enrollment and no-cost program is dedicated to broadening the perspectives of emerging young minds in the principles of free markets, civics and civility. Participants take six courses, both in-person and virtually, and then complete an approved study published by Mountain States Policy Center. MSPC's Board of Directors then chooses the best piece to receive a $5,000 scholarship.
Fruehauf's research work concentrated on occupational licensing reform, concluding:
"Overall, occupational licensing attempts to ensure peace of mind, protect consumers, and ensure quality. But are mandated occupational licensing laws effective in achieving these aims and are these laws alwaysrjustified? It can be demonstrated that occupational licensing is largely ineffective in achieving its aims. Occupational licensing also causes an unjust and undue burden on individuals seeking to serve others. The most economically effective and just policy is not one of government-mandated occupational licensing, but a policy of privatization of all occupational licensing and certifications."
You can read the entire study here:
Honored at the MSPC 2024 Fall Dinner and Anniversary Gala, Fruehauf lauded the Sawtooth Leadership Academy and the work of his fellow students.
The Sawtooth Leadership Academy is designed for ambitious high school and college students who are eager to explore and embrace free market principles, gain practical insights from industry leaders, and contribute to their communities as future leaders. Applications for the 2025 Sawtooth Leadership Academy class will be accepted starting December 1st.