Michael Harris (public policy scholar)
[20][21] Harris developed cutting-edge approaches for saving students money while ensuring timely degree completion, which earned national attention from organization such as the Lumina Foundation.[23] In January 2012, under the leadership of Michael Harris, IU Kokomo received a $1.25 million gift from Milt and Jean Cole to fund a new wellness and fitness center.[26] While serving as Chancellor, Harris was presented the Phoenix II (a sculpture and plaque) from the faculty, staff, and students of the university's fine arts program.[34][35][36] While serving as Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Kettering University, Harris was a leader in a collaborative effort among Swedish Biogas International,[37][38] the City of Flint, Kettering University, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation that resulted in $951,500 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to advance the production of biogas and biomethane at the Flint Center of Energy Excellence.[44] Prior to joining Ferris State, he was a faculty member in the Department of Political Science and subsequently associate provost at Eastern Michigan University (1994–2004).[45] During this time at Eastern Michigan, Harris was instrumental in vital efforts, such as overseeing the North Central Association, Higher Learning Commission Self-Study Steering Committee in his capacity as Interim Provost[46] that resulted in the university's re-accreditation by NCA, HLC.