Dan Maranan joined WashU in January 2024 as the executive director of the Digital Intelligence & Innovation (DI2) Accelerator. In this role, he leads the team responsible for implementing the Digital Transformation pillar of the Here & Next Strategic plan, which aims to expand and support the work of researchers working in a digital domain, enhance educational experiences, and enable operational excellence.
A St. Louis native, Dan brings a wealth of leadership experience from his previous role managing teams of software engineers at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Dan is known for his leadership skills and technical expertise. In his downtime, you might catch him participating in (and winning) hackathons that address issues related to homelessness, health equity, and immigrant communities.
We asked Dan a few questions to learn more about his background, future plans for the DI2 Accelerator, and his plans for realizing this vision.
What excites you about getting to work on WashU’s digital transformation effort?
Working alongside diverse teams of talented individuals inspires me every day. I’m a people person by nature, and the work the DI2 Accelerator is doing to drive innovation and create impactful change at WashU is inherently collaborative. Empowering high-caliber leaders and innovators within our community is both a privilege and a source of excitement. It’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to an environment where creativity and technology converge to shape WashU’s impact on society.
What do you see the DI2 Accelerator accomplishing over the next two years?
Over the next two years, I see the DI2 Accelerator achieving several milestones in driving digital transformation at Washington University. Our primary accomplishments will include:
Enhanced digital infrastructure: WashU has already invested significantly in high-capacity computing, cloud computing, and improved network infrastructure. The next step is to support AI tools to enhance our research capabilities. This will include more investments in infrastructure, software, and corporate partnerships.
Investment in educational solutions: DI2 Accelerator plans to partner with educators throughout the university to embed digital competencies into teaching and learning at all levels. We will champion existing programs and explore other opportunities that help the community adopt best practices in regard to the use of AI and other emerging digital technologies.
Community and collaboration: We will foster meaningful partnerships within and outside the university, creating a robust ecosystem of interdisciplinary collaboration. Our goal is to be a hub that bridges the gaps between diverse and siloed groups across both campuses.
Custom software development: The Digital Solution Studio is WashU’s own software development agency available to WashU faculty, staff, and students to bring their digital research projects to life. I expect the DSS to be fully operational, with at least ten projects completed in the next year. These initiatives will position WashU as a leader in digital innovation, setting a benchmark for other institutions to follow. Our progress will enhance the university’s operations and significantly contribute to the broader academic and professional communities.
How do you stay current with the rapid advancements in technology and innovation?
I am an intensely curious person with a driving need to understand the intricacies of new and old technologies. Early in my career, I learned that most new innovations are based on a few core concepts. For example, the latest advancements in generative AI are derived from early statistical modeling, pattern recognition, and expert systems. Once I recognize these themes, I can apply what I already know to help understand the latest technology.
For me, learning is more than just reading about a topic. I need to experience the challenges of using the technology firsthand. I enjoy competing in the occasional hackathon to keep my skills sharp but I also look for opportunities to learn from people who have more expertise than myself. Every encounter is a learning opportunity.
What personal philosophies guide your leadership style?
I strive to lead with courage and empathy, embodying Brené Brown’s philosophy of daring leadership. I am not afraid to show vulnerability, recognizing that it fosters trust and deep connections within my team.
I learned from Adam Grant to embrace a giving mindset. I am always looking for ways to support and lift others up. I try to create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique strengths.
Inspired by Simon Sinek, my leadership is driven by a clear and compelling vision. I focus on the “why” behind my actions, motivating my team with a shared sense of purpose. I believe in building a culture of trust and commitment, where people are inspired to work towards a common goal.
These influences motivate me to be the kind of leader I would want for myself, leading with vision and empathy and prioritizing the well-being and growth of my team.
What do you think your past experience outside of higher ed brings to this role?
One of the best ways to innovate is to take solutions or processes from one discipline and see what lessons they can teach us in another. I come from a strong product development and product management background where outcomes are measured by the success of those I serve. I am excited to bring that experience to a university setting and help WashU amplify its influence on society.