University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit Announces New Director’s Advisory Board

DETROIT – The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit (UMCI) today announced the appointment of new members to its Director’s Advisory Board, marking a key step as the initiative accelerates efforts to build a Detroit-based hub for education, innovation and workforce development.

The announcement of the board comes as UMCI advances planning and development of its Detroit presence, designed to connect students, researchers and industry partners in high-growth fields and strengthen pathways to opportunity across the region.

The newly appointed board members bring a diverse range of expertise across industry, academia and civic leadership. Their collective experience will support UMCI’s mission to drive prosperity through multidisciplinary education, industry-relevant research and community-accessible programs that catalyze talent, entrepreneurship and innovation rooted in Detroit.

“UMCI is building something truly transformative in Detroit,” said Scott Shireman, executive director, the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit. “These prominent members bring invaluable insight and leadership that will help guide our continued growth and ensure we are meeting the needs of students, employers and the community.”

Board members highlighted the significance of UMCI’s role in Detroit’s future:

“Detroit’s continued momentum depends on strong partnerships that connect people, place and opportunity,” said Eric B. Larson, chief executive officer, Downtown Detroit Partnership. “I’m excited to be part of a project that will benefit generations to come and inspire continued growth in the heart of our city."

“The future of Detroit is being developed now; it is the ingenuity and talent of our young people,” said Angelique Power, president and chief executive officer, The Skillman Foundation. “In an ever-evolving economy and world, UMCI is demonstrating what it looks like to design and deliver a forward-looking education.”

“UMCI bridges research, innovation and real-world impact,” said Kelly Sexton, associate vice president for research, U-M Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact. “It’s a powerful model for preparing the next generation of leaders.”

“Creating pathways to opportunity is critical to building a more resilient and equitable Detroit,” said Rodney E. Cole, president, DTE Foundation. “UMCI is helping to expand access to those pathways and strengthen the region’s economic future.”

The Director’s Advisory Board plays a critical role in shaping UMCI’s strategic direction, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the development of new academic programs and experiential learning opportunities. As UMCI continues to expand its footprint, the board will help position the center as a national model for place-based innovation and education.

Additional details about the board and UMCI’s growing portfolio of programs, partnerships and initiatives can be found at the UMCI website recently launched as a central hub for engaging students, partners and the broader community.

About the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit is dedicated to advancing innovation, education, and economic development through place-based learning and cross-sector collaboration. Based in Detroit, UMCI brings together students, faculty, and partners to address complex challenges and create new opportunities for the future of work.

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