Michael Obasohan, Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Pittsfield since 2022, has worked across the sectors of higher education and local and state government, focusing on racial justice and creating inclusive communities. He oversees the integration and development of Pittsfield’s first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Department for staff, and he fosters strategic partnerships with local businesses to champion DEI for just outcomes for diverse communities. Michael was a leader in student life and academic affairs for over ten years at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) in North Adams, as the Assistant Director of Diversity Programs & Multicultural Education and Associate Director of College Readiness and Success. Michael earned an M.S. of Higher Education from Bay Path University, a Certificate of Advance Graduate Studies in Higher Education and Leadership from UMass Amherst, and a B.A. in Arts Management from MCLA. Michael’s consultancy work includes developing Safe Zone LGBTQIA+ trainings for local businesses and nonprofits in North Adams and working with Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and the U.S. Department of Justice to bring the City-SPIRIT program to Berkshire County, where he lives.
