1. Professor of Public Policy and Director, Science, Technology, and Public Policy program Shobita Parthasarathy testifies before the House Science Committee

    Mark Rivett posted July 15, 2021

    On Friday, July 16, 2021 at 10:00 AM ET, University of Michigan Professor Shobita Parthasarathy to testify before the House Science Committee: Fostering Equity in Energy Innovation.

    Watch the testimony here


  2. Professor in Democracy, Democratization, and Human Rights Mary Gallagher Testifies before the Senate Finance Committee

    Mark Rivett posted July 14, 2021

    On Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at 2:00 PM EST, University of Michigan Professor Mary Gallagher to testify before the Senate Subcommittee on Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth.

    Watch the testimony here


  3. Director of the Office of Economic Development at UM-Flint, testified before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology’s Subcommittee on Research and Technology

    Mark Rivett posted June 15, 2021

    On June 9th, Paula Nas, Director of the office of Economic Development at UM-Flint, testified before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology‘s Subcommittee on Research and Technology. The hearing, entitled “Building Regional Innovation Economies” focused on understanding how all Americans can participate in the innovation economy, with a particular emphasis on providing equal opportunities for historically underrepresented groups and rural communities.

    In her testimony, Nas highlighted the work of the UM-Flint Economic Development Administration (EDA) University Center, noting that “as a trusted partner in the community, our EDA University Center often serves as the entry point for innovators who might not otherwise attempt to move their ideas forward.” Nas’ testimony explained the benefits of providing opportunities to potential innovators in marginalized communities. Nas highlighted the impact of the UM-Flint’s EDA University Center on a community member who developed a technology to help the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. With the Center’s support, the individual plans to launch an emerging technology company. Nas also emphasized the importance of introducing innovation education at an early age in order to mold future innovators, giving particular praise to programs like Young Sharks, a program run by UM-Flint that helps elementary students develop entrepreneurial skills. Additionally, Nas testified that universities should serve an important role in the development of innovation economies through removing barriers to access and participation.

    A recording of the hearing can be found here.