I first met Ed during my early years as a Ph.D. student, at a time when I had just moved to the U.S. with my wife and two young daughters. Ed, who was then Director of Graduate Studies, helped augment my financial support during what was a challenging period. His efforts went beyond the usual academic mentorship—he genuinely cared about my well-being, and his practical support during that time laid a foundation of trust and respect that I have carried with me ever since. 

In the classroom, I had the privilege of taking two courses with Ed, which were as educational as they were transformative for my understanding of economics. His teaching style was meticulous and methodical. Every class was a masterclass in organization—each topic was explained patiently, and no stone was left unturned in exploring the complexities of economic models. I was particularly impressed by how Ed balanced the theoretical with the practical, ensuring that we understood the tools needed to solve problems while also grasping the larger ideas behind them. His ability to discern between what was essential and what was peripheral was something I came to deeply appreciate. 

As my Ph.D. advisor, Ed’s guidance was instrumental in not just helping me with my dissertation but also shaping my approach to research as a whole. He was always there for me, devoting time to discussions, asking the hard questions, and pushing me to refine my ideas. In the process of explaining my thoughts to him, I gained a much deeper understanding of the subjects I was tackling. His no-nonsense, "to-the-point" style of mentorship made sure that I stayed focused and responsible in my work, while his support gave me the confidence to pursue various novel ideas.

After my Ph.D., Ed and I collaborated on several research projects, writing numerous papers together. I learned not just from his expertise on the subject matter but also from his approach to research itself. He was just as curious and questioning when discussing new ideas as I was, always willing to dig deep into the core of an issue until he had a thorough grasp of it. His intellectual rigor and methodical approach ensured that our work was always of the highest quality, and I consider those collaborations some of the most enriching experiences of my career.

Ed’s support extended far beyond academia. In 2007, he coopted me for a consultation assignment with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization, opening doors for me that I would not have been able to access otherwise. Throughout my career, he has been quietly supportive, often in ways that I only came to realize later. His humility in helping others while keeping the focus on the work itself is something I have come to admire greatly.

As Ed steps into his well-deserved retirement, I am filled with gratitude for all that he has contributed to my life, both personally and professionally. He has not only been an outstanding mentor but also a great friend. I am sure that the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire future generations of economists. I wish him the very best in this next chapter of his life and extend my deepest thanks for everything he has done for me and countless others.