Past Executive Council Members
2025-2026
Daiwei (David) Wang
First Vice President of the Rice Economic ForumDavid served as Vice President of REF during a defining chapter in the organization's history, emerging as a driving force behind its founding and early momentum. As one of the architects who helped initiate REF, he transformed a fledgling idea into a thriving organization with real institutional presence.
Over the course of his tenure, David spearheaded two landmark General Body Meetings, rallying members and setting the strategic direction for the organization's future. He conceived and orchestrated the Careers Spotlight event, a flagship initiative that connected members with meaningful professional opportunities and quickly became a cornerstone of REF's programming.
Demonstrating exceptional initiative, David played a significant role in securing and leading a meeting with Bridgewater Associates — one of the world's premier investment firms — helping open the door to internship opportunities for REF members. Never content to rest on past wins, he also designed and proposed two ambitious new programs, the EconInsights Workshop and the Debate Series, laying the strategic groundwork for the organization's next era of growth.
Throughout his leadership, David championed a vision of REF built on careful planning, consistent communication, and member-focused programming — principles that continue to shape the organization's trajectory today.