Michael M. Crow, President of Arizona State University and Chairman of the University Design Institute, has led ASU for more than 20 years. During that timeframe, the university has transformed into a powerful catalyst of social embeddedness, access and excellences that has become a model for higher education around the globe. 

Today, ASU is routinely ranked as a top university in innovation, sustainability and global impact, and continues to advance its charter, a powerful framework for how the institution operates and sees its place in the world. The "New American University", ASU demonstrates comprehensive excellence, inclusivity and consequential societal impact. 

President Crow is a visionary for global higher education, and his framework and design thinking guide much of UDI's global work in higher education. 


Designing the New American University

Hear from ASU President Michael Crow on how the concept of the New American University came to be, and how it still drives Arizona State University forward today.

Watch now.

Featured Insights from ASU President Michael Crow

More from ASU President Michael Crow

President Crow regularly offers commentary and expertise on the higher education landscape, research and expertise, innovation, and the university mission. Below is a sample of some of his recent thought leadership:

Research and Discovery, University Mission

It’s Time for Universities to Redesign Their 75-Year-Old Contract

Learner Experience, University Mission, Partnerships and Financial Models

Foreign Students Help Make America Great

Research and Discovery

The Future of U.S. University Research: A Conversation with Rice University's Reginald DesRoches

University Mission

Michael Crow: “No Excuses: The Urgent Responsibility of Public Higher Ed”

Digital Solutions

FOLC Fest 2025 explores Principled Innovation, leadership and learning at ASU

University Mission

Higher education key to US competitiveness, security