Early Life and Family
Our UMass System Office Chief Information Officer (CIO), Michael Milligan, is a man who achieved success through hard work and a commitment to family, friends, and colleagues. Originally hailing from Gilford, New Hampshire, he is the eldest of four brothers. Growing up in the picturesque town of Gilford, surrounded by the serene beauty of New Hampshire, Michael developed a strong sense of responsibility and leadership from an early age—primarily because his younger brothers conned him into doing their chores or homework. But he never let them win any one-on-one backyard battles to ensure they knew their place.
Education
Michael is a proud graduate of Villanova University, a private Catholic research university in Pennsylvania. You probably saw, heard or read something from Michael back in March when his Wildcats nearly went all the way in the “Big East” tournament this year. Michael is pretty serious about his Villanova Wildcats and enjoys banter among colleagues; Kate Targett knows what it’s like to be heckled at a UITS Open Forum when Villanova and her Purdue Boilermakers made it to the Sweet 16, and Villanova went on to the Final Four… but Kate got the last laugh when the Boilermakers were the NCAA runner-up champs in 2024. If Villanova sports weren’t enough, even the Pope hails from those hallowed halls, furthering the fun of one-upmanship!
Professional Journey
After college, this aspiring CIO embarked on a distinguished career in information technology. He spent 18 years with Verizon leaving his Sr. Program Management position to enter the public sector at the Commonwealth of MA as CIO of the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. He spent 2 years at COMA, before moving into the Higher Ed industry as Managing Director of Collaboration and Communications Service for Harvard University. Being no stranger to challenges, he pursued the position of Deputy CIO for UMass under CIO John Letchford. John shortlisted 23 candidates for prescreening by me, Kelly Fucci, a former IT Recruiter. The task was especially challenging as Covid had just sent everyone home. After completing 8 disappointing phone interviews, I excitedly messaged John Letchford: “I finally found a good one”. John phoned me to discuss the candidate who turned out to be Michael P. Milligan. In his proper British tone, John remarked, “He’s very human, isn’t he?” Indeed, perhaps even “superhuman!” After narrowing the pool to 8 finalists and putting them all through the paces, Michael was hired as Deputy CIO on July 1, 2020 amid the Covid lockdown.
His expertise and dedication led to the prestigious promotion to UMass System CIO barely one year later, a role he proudly states, “this is my dream job”. As he celebrated his 5-year anniversary last month, he reflected on his “deep appreciation for his UMPO colleagues”. He grew melancholy about UITS and “the privilege it is to work with IT professionals who exemplify excellence, demonstrate skill and passion that contribute significantly to the technological advancement and strategic planning of the university”. His journey is a testament to the rewards of dedication, leadership, and genuine happiness in one's professional and personal endeavors.
Personal Life
Michael has been happily married for 15 years to Amy (Donavan) Milligan and together, balancing their incredibly demanding professional careers, they are raising their wonderful 13-year-old son, Donavan Milligan. They have built a loving and supportive family environment for Donavan in Melrose MA that includes attending St. John’s Prep and excelling in Hockey and Baseball. Last summer, the family visited Cooperstown NY – home to Baseball’s Hall of Fame and Cooperstown All Star Village where Donavan’s team had the honor to play in a tournament. Donavan hit the only homerun for his team - check out the family photo of him proudly holding that baseball. I’ve heard Michael say many times “you can call me anything, but my favorite name is Dad”.
Hobbies and Interests
Michael enjoys good food, a nice glass of wine or a tumbler of bourbon in his free time with Amy. The rest of the time, you’ll likely find Michael on the links. He is an avid golfer and shares his love of golf with his son. “Dad” and Donavan play regularly on the weekends and whenever possible on weeknights, perfecting their swings and occasionally fishing their balls out of the water hazards.
Contentment in Service
His satisfaction in his role at UMass is palpable. He finds great fulfillment in contributing to the university's mission and witnessing the tangible impact of his work on students, faculty, and staff. As if his work as a CIO isn’t enough, Michael is a board member for the Court Management Advisory Board (CMAB) at the Commonwealth, he Co-Chaired the AI Task Force under Secretary Snayder at the Commonwealth, and he serves on the UMass Global Board of Regents. He is no stranger to hard work!
Conclusion
Newly promoted Deputy CIO, Maria Apse, shared: “My favorite quote from Michael is ‘Giddy Up’. He uses this when he gets excited about an idea and to show his enthusiasm!” She went on to say, “Never one to take the spotlight himself. Michael is the happiest when other people shine... Michael is open to feedback and often asks, ‘Is this the right thing? What can I do better?’ Maria continued, “Michael never forgets the important stuff. I have had people in my family become ill, and I can always count on Michael to ask how folks are doing. I know the ask is genuine because he remembers the names and context of those people. His empathy as a person, friend,d and leader is inspiring.”
If you know Michael, then you know he ends most meetings, conferences and emails with “Do Great Things” and Michael, you do great things!
GIDDY UP, Michael!
