Mike Shriberg, Ph.D., is director of the University of Michigan Water Center at the Graham Sustainability Institute, where he provides strategic and programmatic leadership to advance collaborative research that informs policy and management decisions affecting the Great Lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters. He is also a Professor of Practice & Engagement at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment & Sustainability (SEAS). Mike works across sectors—government, academia, NGOs, and the private sector—to elevate regional priorities and align the Water Center’s research and practice agenda with the needs of decision-makers. He also partners with faculty and students to build multidisciplinary teams that deliver practical, community-based impact.
Mike brings a unique ability to bridge academic, research, and practitioner communities, grounded in a deep commitment to impact in the Great Lakes region. Prior to his role as Water Center Director, he held several positions at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS), including Associate Director of the Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research as well as Interim Director and Director of Engagement at Michigan Sea Grant.
Previously, Mike served as Great Lakes Regional Executive Director at the National Wildlife Federation, where he led efforts on federal Great Lakes restoration, water affordability and access, invasive species prevention, water management reform, environmental justice, and urban youth engagement. Earlier in his career, he was education director at the Graham Sustainability Institute, policy director at the Ecology Center, and director of Environment Michigan. He also was a faculty member and led the Environmental Studies Program at Chatham University.
Mike’s work focuses on sustainability leadership, water and climate policy, Great Lakes management, and institutional change. He is the creator and instructor of Sustainability Leadership Development, a Coursera/Michigan Online course that is part of the SEAS specialization Green Skills for a Sustainable & Just Future. He teaches “Great Lakes Water, Climate & Communities” as well as “Water Policy & Politics” and “Sustainable & Fossil Energy: Causes and Consequences”.
A frequent contributor to both academic journals and public media as well as a key collaborator with state and federal decision makers, Mike is committed to connecting science, policy, and public engagement to drive meaningful, lasting impact.
