Northwood University announces the appointment of Dr. Gabriel Benzecry, a rising star in the field of Austrian economics and history of economic thought, as the new David E. Fry Professor of Free Market Economics, effective Fall 2025.
Dr. Benzecry currently serves as an Assistant Professor and Bretzlaff Scholar at Northwood University. Like Dr. Fry, the namesake of this prestigious professorship, Benzecry comes into this role early in his career with an impressive record of academic achievement and a deep commitment to advancing the principles of a free market economy.
“Dr. Benzecry embodies the next generation of thought leadership inspired by our distinctive philosophy, The Northwood Idea,” said Northwood University President Kent MacDonald. “His appointment draws a powerful parallel to our history — when a young Dr. David E. Fry was chosen to lead Northwood into a bold new era of innovation. Now, Gabriel steps into that same tradition as a rising scholar whose enthusiasm, intellect, and vision position him to expand the University’s academic influence and philosophical depth. We are confident he will honor and advance the legacy of excellence this highly regarded professorship represents. Dr. Fry was an exemplary leader who guided Northwood for nearly 25 years. I believe he would wholeheartedly support the selection of Dr. Benzecry.”
Originally from Brazil, Dr. Benzecry holds a doctorate and master’s degree in economics from Middle Tennessee State University, and an undergraduate degree in economics from Wake Forest University, where he also minored in philosophy and entrepreneurship. Upon completion of his doctorate studies, he was awarded the 2023 James M. Buchanan Dissertation Award from the Political Economy Research Institute at Middle Tennessee State University.
“Dr. Benzecry’s appointment reflects our continued commitment to academic excellence and intellectual freedom,” stated Academic Vice President and Provost Dr. Kristin Stehouwer. “He brings a rare combination of scholarly rigor, deep respect for the classical liberal tradition, and an ability to inspire students to think critically about the world around them. The appointment of Dr. Benzecry as the David E. Fry Professor of Free Market Economics speaks to Northwood’s leadership in advancing free-market thought.”
Dr. Benzecry’s scholarship explores the intellectual contributions of thinkers such as F.A. Hayek and Ludwig von Mises. His work has appeared in numerous respected journals, including History of Political Economy and Journal of the History of Economic Thought.
“Gabriel is not only a scholar with an outstanding publication record, but also a gifted communicator and professor,” said Academic Dean Dr. Stacey Tetloff. “His appointment ensures that Northwood will continue to be a beacon for students who seek to understand and defend the principles of liberty and free enterprise.”
Dr. Benzecry has participated in high-profile academic events around the world, including the Liberty Fund – F.A. Hayek and Liberty, in Washington, D.C. with top scholars on the subject. His dedication to scholarship and education is matched by his passion for mentoring and cultivating an appreciation for economics among his students.
“I am devoted to Northwood’s unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional business education focusing on smaller class sizes and personalized student mentorship,” Benzecry explained. “It is a privilege to be part of an institution that cultivates in students a profound understanding of the significance of personal responsibility within the framework of a free enterprise system. In an era when academic freedom is gradually diminishing, Northwood stands out as a haven for scholars who value independent inquiry and the exploration of subjects that might not coincide with current trends in academia. At Northwood, I can freely pursue the truth and fulfill my responsibilities as a scholar and educator.”
Dr. Dale Matcheck, who has served as the David E. Fry Professor of Free Market Economics since 2022, and was mentored by Dr. Timothy G. Nash, the first scholar to hold this endowed professorship. Matcheck will continue teaching and mentoring at Northwood, passing the torch with pride and optimism.
“It has been an honor to serve in this role, and I could not be more enthusiastic about Gabriel’s appointment,” said Dr. Matcheck. “His intellectual curiosity, commitment to truth, and respect for the power of ideas embody what this professorship was created to uphold. He will not only preserve the ideals of free market economics but will propel them to new audiences in exciting and innovative ways.”
As David E. Fry Professor of Free Market Economics, Dr. Benzecry will serve as a thought leader for Northwood’s economics program, contribute to curriculum development, mentor faculty and students. He also will publish original research and represent Northwood University at conferences and symposia. This role is a cornerstone of Northwood’s mission to foster a deeper understanding of how free markets and personal responsibility promote human flourishing. The importance of limited government and free enterprise are some of the pillars of The Northwood Idea, Northwood’s guiding philosophy that also values individual responsibility, moral law, and earned success. For more information, visit https://www.northwood.edu/the-northwood-idea/
