Shankar Prasad

Shankar Prasad is the Dean of the School of Professional Studies and Vice President for Academic Innovation at Brown University. He has been in this role since July 2022, overseeing a range of master's programs designed for early- and mid-career professionals, as well as non-degree programs for various organizations and individuals.14

Professional Background

Before his current position, Prasad served as Deputy Provost and Vice President for Academic Innovation from September 2020 to July 2022, where he focused on leveraging digital education to enhance access to learning opportunities globally.24 His previous roles at Brown include Associate Provost for Global Engagement & Strategic Initiatives and Assistant Provost, where he was responsible for developing the university's global strategy and fostering an inclusive environment for international students and faculty.12

Prior to returning to Brown, Prasad was a Clinical Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies at New York University’s Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service from 2009 to 2014. He played a crucial role in redesigning policy programs during his time at Brown's Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs.12

Education

Prasad holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Brown University and an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management. His academic focus includes American and comparative politics, as well as strategy and data analytics.23

Community Involvement

In addition to his academic roles, Prasad serves on the boards of the Trinity Repertory Theater and the Wheeler School, reflecting his commitment to community engagement.1