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Justin Vélez-Hagan (MBA, Ph.D.)

Public servant & Business owner | Economist | Author | Educator | Veteran

Appointed in 2024, Dr. Justin Vélez-Hagan serves as the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Virginia, helping to oversee statewide operations and advising on the administration of Virginia’s nearly $90 billion annual budget. Upon assuming this role, he transitioned to an advisory position as President of Macro Policy Advisors while continuing his work as an investor and advisor with Solid G Holdings. He also teaches as an adjunct professor of finance at Marymount University. An accomplished author, Dr. Vélez-Hagan founded The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, serving as its inaugural executive director and continuing as a senior advisor and board member. His notable works include The Common Sense behind Basic Economics (2015), The Paradox of Fiscal Austerity (2019), and the forthcoming Capitol Gains (2025).

Dr. Vélez-Hagan has collaborated with public and private sectors to tackle policy challenges in high-technology, healthcare, financial services, telecommunications, energy, and pharmaceuticals across the U.S. and in Puerto Rico. Drawing on his experience, he engages with a broad range of stakeholders, including government officials, advocacy groups, corporations, and the small business community.

With a focus on international fiscal policy, financial systems, and economic development, Dr. Vélez-Hagan has shared insights with national regulators, congressional committees, and administration officials, while also serving as a guest lecturer at universities across the country. His work includes using big data to inform economic research, aligning research efforts with practical business and policy needs, and supporting financial growth and opportunities for small businesses. Dr. Vélez-Hagan values collaboration, working with stakeholders across academia, government, and the private sector to ensure that his research contributes to meaningful public policy and business strategies.

Dr. Vélez-Hagan's work has been featured in leading outlets such as Forbes, Fox News, Politico, The Hill, and CNBC, as well as in numerous local publications. He has also made appearances on major networks, including Fox News, BBC World, Fox Business, and NPR, among others.

Previously, Dr. Vélez-Hagan has served as an adjunct professor in the University System of Maryland and has invested in businesses spanning healthcare and specialized construction products. He also led an advisory firm in financial services, offering strategic guidance and actionable insights. His expertise has been showcased on platforms like HGTV’s Curb Appeal and NBC’s House Smarts.

Board Memberships and Advisory Roles: Dr. Vélez-Hagan has contributed to numerous boards, including the Capital Area Asset Builders and the National Military Family Association’s Technology Advisory Board, and is currently a board member of the American Latino Veterans Association, as well as an executive board member of the Boy Scouts of America, National Capital Area Council. He has advised governors in Puerto Rico and actively volunteers to increase veteran representation in elected office. In 2022, he was appointed by the Governor of Virginia to the Joint Advisory Board of Economists, serving until 2024 when he transitioned to his current role.

Education: Dr. Vélez-Hagan earned a BS in Finance from the University of Louisville, an MBA from Arizona State University, and a Ph.D. in Economic Policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Personal Background: Dr. Vélez-Hagan is a combat veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan (Air Force), a current U.S. Army Reserve officer, and a father of three.

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Soli Deo Gloria