Dr. Michael Toma, a professor at Armstrong Atlantic State University specializing in macro and regional economics, will be the featured speaker for the next Effingham County Chamber Membership Breakfast set for April 22. The event will be held from 7:30-8:45 a.m. at the Family Life Center of Rincon United Methodist Church at 810 Fort Howard Rd. in Rincon.

Noted for his contributions to applied economic research, Dr. Toma authors the “Economic Monitor,” a quarterly economic report for the Savannah area. He has also authored and co-authored several scholarly journals and received numerous grants for his research.

“We are excited about having Dr. Toma join us to offer a forecast of what to expect in the months ahead,” Michael Lee, Chamber president said. “Last year he did an outstanding job for us at our community retreat. His analyses are down to earth and he tells it like it is.”

Toma holds a PhD in economics from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. He has served as the director of Armstrong Atlantic’s Center for Regional Analysis since 1999 and the coordinator of the university’s Public Service Center since 2007.

In 2003, he was named as one of Savannah’s “40 under 40” community leaders by the Business Report and Journal. The following year, Georgia Trend magazine selected him as one of Georgia’s “40 under 40” rising stars. In 2008 AASU recognized Dr. Toma with its distinguished faculty service award.

Breakfast reservations are $12 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. RSVP by April 20. Call 754-3301 or register on line at www.effinghamcounty.com/calendar.2.0.html. Simply click on the calendar date and scroll down on the page for event details and registration.