William Shear

The major springboard to my career was completing my Ph.D. in economics at the University of Chicago. I had the great experience of being a student of my mentor George Tolley in urban and regional economics. George excelled in promoting rigorous economic analysis, using economics as a tool in evaluating government policy, and promoting the value of multi-disciplinary research. In 1995, I became an Assistant Director in Financial Markets and Community Investment at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). I served as a Director in this field from 2003 until my retirement in November 2023. I also served as a Lecturer in City and Regional Planning at the University of Pennsylvania from 1996 through 2002. During my tenure at GAO, I led work on housing finance, community and economic development programs, and small business. I testified over 40 times before Congressional Committees including Senate and House Small Business, Senate Banking, House Financial Services, and House Veterans Affairs. Recognitions I have received include a Senate Tribute from the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee published in the Congressional Record on November 15, 2023.