James DeVaney has been appointed by President Santa J. Ono as the special advisor to the president for academic innovation, aiming to elevate life-changing education in line with the Vision 2034 strategic plan. DeVaney will collaborate closely with university leaders in this new role while continuing as the founding executive director of the Center for Academic Innovation and associate vice provost for academic innovation.
DeVaney’s responsibilities will include lifelong learning, AI in education, online education, alternative credentials, and workforce development. These areas align with the University of Michigan’s mission to provide equitable educational opportunities for all learners. “James is a nationally recognized leader in academic innovation and he has been instrumental in expanding access to high-quality, transformative learning experiences,” Ono stated. “His vision and expertise will be invaluable as we work closely together, along with university leadership, to achieve our Vision 2034 goals — especially in advancing life-changing education for students on campus and beyond.”
DeVaney has significantly impacted U-M’s educational framework by creating scalable programs through the CAI, enhancing teaching and learning while expanding the U-M community. The center has fostered interdisciplinary partnerships globally, enhancing the university’s reach with innovative design and technology. In his advisory role, DeVaney will continue to spearhead initiatives in line with U-M’s strategic goals, using emerging technologies to maintain relevance in an AI-driven era.
“It’s an honor to take on this new role and further support U-M’s commitment to lifelong learning and innovation,” DeVaney remarked. “We are in a period of extraordinary change and the work we do together now will shape the future of education for years to come.”
Before joining U-M in 2014, DeVaney co-founded global and digital education practices at Huron Consulting Group, establishing a presence in the Middle East and North Africa. His career includes strategic counsel to over 75 universities across more than 15 countries.
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