Peyton Ellis, Ph.D. Candidate

Major Professor: Dr. Saweda O. Liverpool-Tasie and Dr. Mywish Maredia

Area of Specialization: Agricultural Economics, Value Chain Analysis, Economic Development

Expected Graduatiion Date: December 2025

Personal Website: www.peytonellis.com

Peyton Ellis is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics (AFRE) at Michigan State University. Her work explores how to measure and strengthen food and agricultural value chains as a means for long-term economic development. Drawing on tools from production modeling and value chain analysis, she examines the structural challenges that limit the growth and sustainability of agribusinesses and other actors along the chain.

Peyton’s research not only identifies barriers, but also highlights practical opportunities for investment, policy, and programming, particularly through Extension and outreach, to support more resilient food systems. She is deeply committed to making research accessible, and regularly produces outreach materials designed to engage fellow scholars, stakeholders, and broader public audiences.