The Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC) hosted its 49th Annual Meeting on Monday, November 3rd, celebrating excellence in public service and exploring the future of Rhode Island’s economy with a panel of leading experts.

This year’s Gary S. Sasse Distinguished Public Service Award for an exceptional state employee was presented to Maureen E. Ewing, Director of Business Services at the Rhode Island Department of State. Ronald M. Wolanski, Director of Planning and Economic Development for the Town of Middletown, received the Robert M. Goodrich Distinguished Public Service Award, which recognizes an outstanding local employee.

“RIPEC extends its congratulations and sincere gratitude to Maureen and Ron for their service to Rhode Island,” said Michael DiBiase, RIPEC President and CEO. “For over 30 years, Maureen has elevated the standard and reputation of the Department of State. Ron has been a vital resource and trusted leader for Middletown for 23 years, guiding the town’s growth and working collaboratively with the community.”

The evening also featured a panel discussion moderated by Nancy Lavin, Senior Reporter at the Rhode Island Current, examining the outlook for Rhode Island and the regional economy. Panelists included:

• Dwain Carryl, Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager, Bank of America
• Edinaldo Tebaldi, Professor of Economics and Vice President for Strategy and Institutional Effectiveness, Bryant University
• Jeffrey Thompson, Vice President and Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

During the event, RIPEC premiered a new video showcasing its legacy of over 90 years as Rhode Island’s independent voice for responsible government. The video illustrates RIPEC’s recent impact on policy reforms, like the elimination of the tangible tax for small businesses and promoting more equitable school funding, while also emphasizing the organization’s commitment to guiding state and local leaders through today’s fiscal challenges.