This position has oversight of the Department's research, program evaluation and policy development activities. Some of the country's most distinguished urban economists and housing finance experts have held this job in the past, and Prof. Bostic fits easily within this distinguished company.
We are very proud of Raphael and believe that his national service will represent the best of USC expertise and character in addressing the major policy issues of our cities and neighborhoods and housing finance. This interest by the New Administration shows the national reputation and strength of USC's real estate and urban economics faculty.
As this is a full-time job in Washington, Raphael has requested a leave of absence from USC for the next 2 years, through 2010. He has expressed his strong intention to return to USC following his work in Washington, and we certainly will miss him and his many contributions to the school while he is away.
March 19, 2009