Initially unsure of what to study or pursue for work, Dr. Edward Fischer tended bar for a while and then his parents sent him on a trip to Guatemala for a little rest and redirection. And that fortunate intervention helped him fall in love with Latin America and ultimately study anthropology. Today Dr. Fischer makes a career studying people all over the world, including how they participate in the economy, and has written several books chronicling his study experiences. Professor Fischer also deeply cares about malnutrition in children, knowing the profound difference a good diet makes to a youngster’s overall cognitive and physical development. He created the Mani Plus program in Guatemala, which relies on locally sourced ingredients. In all of his study and travel, Dr. Fischer has come to realize that while people’s socioeconomic circumstances can vary widely, at the end of the day they still value aspiration and opportunity, dignity and fairness, and commitment to a larger purpose.