Michael Thomas

About Michael Thomas

Michael K. Thomas is the President and CEO of the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) in Boston, Massachusetts, an organization providing innovation-oriented policy leadership, strategic enrollment programs and consulting services to senior university leaders and to public policy makers.His expertise includes a focus on the strategic, competitive, entrepreneurial and governance challenges facing tuition-driven, modestly endowed, regionally competing, and market-responsive higher education institutions that seek further growth.An expert on complex organizations, Thomas frequently consults and lectures on institutional innovation, business model changes, strategic alliances and graduates’ employability in higher education. He serves in numerous board, governance and advisory roles. He works extensively in political and higher education environments with members of Congress, governors, state legislators, K-12 leaders, state higher education policy leaders, college and university presidents and with business/industry leaders.

Experience

1. Nacd Certified Director and Governance Fellow

   NACD (National Association of Corporate Directors)

   Jan 2020 — Present · Boston, MA, US

   The NACD Directorship Certification™ program equips directors with the foundation of knowledge sought by boards to effectively contribute in the boardroom. NACD Directorship Certified directors pass a foundational exam developed by experienced directors and, via continuing recertification requirements, commit to continuing education on governance and emerging issues impacting the businesses they serve in order to elevate the profession of directorship.

Education

• Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE)

  Certificate, Summer Institute in Educational Fundraising

  2007 — 2007

• Boston University

  Master of Business Administration, MBA

  2003 — 2006

• Teachers College, Columbia University

  Master of Arts, Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration

  1993 — 1994

• Harvard University

  Doctor of Education, Administration, Planning and Social Policy

  1994 — 2002

• Brigham Young University

  Bachelor of Arts with University Honors, Philosophy

  1985 — 1992

• Harvard University

  Master of Education, Administration, Planning and Social Policy

  1994 — 1995

Skills

• Leadership
• Public Speaking
• Program Development
• Staff Development
• Higher Education
• Leadership Development
• Research
• Fundraising
• Strategic Planning
• Nonprofit Organizations