Robert Gagné granted the title of Professor Emeritus

Robert Gagné has been named a Professor Emeritus by HEC Montréal as a tribute to his entire career and to his significant contributions to the School. His emeritus status will be proclaimed at the graduation ceremony on May 19, 2026.

Robert Gagné joined the Department of Applied Economics in 1990 and spent 35 years at HEC Montréal, including 25 years as a full professor. His career has been defined by an unwavering commitment to teaching, research and institutional development, and also by a sustained contribution to the School’s outreach within Quebec society. 

His appointment, which the Board of Directors unanimously endorsed, is a testament to his peers’ acknowledgement of his outstanding career.

Robert Gagné has played a key role in educating generations of students in economics and management. He is renowned for the clarity and rigour of his teaching approach and has been able to make complex concepts accessible while maintaining high standards. His commitment to supervising graduate students and his contribution to the development of programs demonstrate his deep attachment to the School’s educational mission.

A renowned researcher, Robert Gagné has established himself as a prominent figure in applied economics and public policy. He is the author of over 40 research articles published in leading journals and has made a significant contribution to the advancement of knowledge in his field. The quality of his work has earned him several honours, including the Esdras Minville Award in 2011 for his external outreach.

Leadership for the benefit of the School and society

He made a name for himself with his institutional leadership qualities throughout his entire career. He served as Director of the Department of Applied Economics twice and as Director of Research and Knowledge Transfer from 2013 to 2019. In these roles, he contributed to foundational projects for the School, including the overhaul of institutional policies and the development of major partnerships. 

He was also instrumental in the creation of the IVADO project, helping to position HEC Montréal as a major player in data science and artificial intelligence.

As founder of the Centre for Productivity and Prosperity – Walter J. Somers Foundation which he has directed since 2009, Robert Gagné has made a significant contribution to HEC Montréal’s outreach. He has had a lasting influence on economic debates and public policy in Quebec through his work, publications and participation in several leading government committees.