James DeVaney

James DeVaney is a global leader in higher education strategy and innovation, working at the intersection of design, policy, technology, and lifelong learning. As the University of Michigan’s chief academic innovation officer, he advises university leadership on lifelong learning, AI and education, online education, alternative credentials, and workforce development—advancing a bold vision for life-changing education. As Founding Executive Director of the Center for Academic Innovation and Associate Vice Provost for Academic Innovation, James has helped position U-M as a worldwide leader in academic innovation. He oversees Michigan Online, expanding U-M’s global reach and creating equitable, lifelong learning opportunities for millions of learners across Michigan and around the world. James has advised more than 75 universities across 15 countries and serves as an advisor to leading technology and edtech companies including Anthropic, Coursera, 2U, Podium Education, and Noodle. Before joining U-M, he co-founded the global education practice at a major consulting firm, guiding institutions across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, Australia, and North America.