Cincinnati Enquirer: UC economist explains why last recession will make this one harder
The shutdowns and layoffs associated with the novel coronavirus pandemic have many economists concerned that a new recession is on its way – even as workers are still struggling to recover from the last recession. The Cincinnati Enquirer turned to Christopher Nicak, director of research at the University of Cincinnati’s Alpaugh Family Economics Center, in examining the issue as it affects both the nation and the Greater Cincinnati region.
“The number of Americans who can withstand a month to two months without any earnings is pretty low,” explained Nicak. That’s especially true in Cincinnati, he added, where 1-5 jobs are in industries hit hardest by the shutdown: transportation, hotels and accommodations, food services and arts and recreation. Those jobs also tend to be lower-paying jobs held by workers who are least able to withstand an economic downturn, Nicak said.
Read the full story here.
UC experts on coronavirus
As the spread of the coronavirus continues around the world, local and international media are turning to UC researchers for guidance on COVID-19, infectious diseases and more. Read more on how UC is helping them cover the story here.
Related Stories
UC's art collection on display at the Contemporary Arts Center
January 5, 2026
University of Cincinnati leaders joined WVXU's Cincinnati Edition to talk about the university’s 200-year-old art collection, a new exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Center and the release of a companion book exploring the collection’s role in education and public engagement.
UC faculty and staff among Rising Star leadership honorees
January 5, 2026
Two UC faculty and staff members are among this year's Rising Star leadership program sponsored by YWCA Greater Cincinnati. Kelli Beecher, assistant professor in the UC College of Nursing, and Brittany Bibb, assistant director of programs and operations in the UC Division of Student Affairs, are among the emerging leaders of 2026. They were featured in the publication Movers & Makers.
What's behind the mysterious rise of migraines?
January 5, 2026
Weather patterns such as extreme heat and storm conditions have been linked to migraine attacks, and research shows those environmental conditions are becoming more common. As National Geographic recently reported, one of the leading theories behind this mysterious rise is that climate change may be playing a role.