Michelle Govani

Advancing projects and partnerships in pursuit of more equitable access to educational and economic opportunity.

Michelle Sullivan Govani is a prominent figure in the field of education and innovation, currently serving as the Director of Strategy and Partnerships at the Office of Applied Innovation at Arizona State University (ASU). Her role involves coordinating and leading various activities and partnerships that aim to foster collaboration between ASU and its communities, focusing on significant investment opportunities and innovative projects.1 4

Education and Background

Govani holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Iowa, as well as both a Master’s and a Ph.D. in Biology from Arizona State University. Her academic background underpins her expertise in bioethics, science policy, and emerging technologies.1

Professional Experience

In her capacity at ASU, Govani is instrumental in designing programs that support ASU teams in securing philanthropic investments of $10 million or more. She specifically leads initiatives that address societal challenges through ambitious "moonshot" ideas aimed at transformative impacts.1 5 Additionally, she is involved with ASU's Knowledge Enterprise, managing strategies related to science philanthropy.1 3

Teaching and Research

Govani also contributes to academia as an affiliate of ASU’s Consortium for Science, Policy, and Outcomes, where she engages in teaching applied scholarship. Her courses include topics such as public engagement strategies, reflecting her commitment to bridging science with societal needs.1 2

Through her multifaceted role at ASU, Michelle Sullivan Govani exemplifies leadership in fostering innovation and collaboration within the academic landscape.