Sparking and Facilitating Chicago's Future

The Junior Economic Club brings together bright and ambitious high school students in Chicago to an unparalleled ecosystem of discussion, exposure, and leadership. We invest in Chicago's future by allowing students to understand and solve real-world economic problems in both the public and private sectors. In doing so, we nurture a more effective, experienced, and responsible generation of leaders.


Our Story

The JEC was founded in 2014 by Sam Lurye and Samir Hadzic, students at Lincoln Park High School, and a group of like-minded high school students. Since its inception, the JEC has been led by 7 different presidents, hosted 20 successful economic forums, spread to 14 cities in 10 US states and 4 countries, giving incredible opportunities to hundreds of students across Chicago and the world.

Our quarterly economic forums and events give our members a chance to hear from and network with some of the most prominent business leaders in the city. In addition, JEC members forge lifelong friendships and find a community within our member base.

Our experienced and knowledgeable speakers offer unique perspectives on the world and their industries.

Our members come from all types of ethnic, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds.

We work with large organizations such as Magnetar Capital, the Council for Economic Education, and the University of Chicago.


Our Structure

We coordinate initiatives that provide financial education for middle school students, build websites for under-resourced schools, and more.

Our quarterly forums allow members to connect with each other and hear from a number of speakers and panelists.

During our interactive seminars, members engage with industry leaders and learn from their career experience.


Spark your interest? Join us.


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