Tonia Warnecke

Cornell Chair & Professor of Social Entrepreneurship at Rollins College; Economic Development, Gender, Policy

Tonia Warnecke is a prominent academic serving as the George D. and Harriet W. Cornell Chair and Professor of Social Entrepreneurship at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. She specializes in international development processes, policy, and social entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on issues related to gender, finance, technology, and sustainability. Dr. Warnecke has extensive international experience, having studied in Hungary and Spain, worked in Montreal, and traveled to over 25 countries across five continents.1 2

Education and Academic Background

Dr. Warnecke holds several degrees:

PhD in Economics from the University of Notre Dame
MA from the University of Notre Dame
MPIA in Public & International Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh
BA in Political Science from Rollins College.1 2

Professional Experience

Since joining Rollins College in 2008, Dr. Warnecke has played a pivotal role in developing the Social Entrepreneurship academic major and minor, which she co-founded in 2013. She has also led the establishment of the Department of Social Entrepreneurship and has served as department chair at various times.1 2 Additionally, she was a Fulbright Visiting Research Chair at McGill University, where she focused on international development studies.2

Research Contributions

Dr. Warnecke's research is interdisciplinary and policy-oriented, focusing on entrepreneurship, gender issues, and development challenges. She has published over 40 research outputs, including articles in international journals, and has collaborated with organizations like the United Nations Research Institute on Social Development.1 2 Her recent publications include works on social entrepreneurship ecosystems and the impact of COVID-19 on inequality.2

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Warnecke has received numerous honors for her contributions to academia, including the Hugh F. McKean Teaching Award and the Cornell Distinguished Faculty Award at Rollins College. She is recognized for her innovative scholarship and impactful teaching practices.1 2

In summary, Tonia Warnecke is a distinguished figure in the field of social entrepreneurship, combining her expertise in economics with a commitment to social impact through education and research.