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Vilas Dhar

President, Patrick J. McGovern Foundation | Building Human Opportunity in a Digital World | Global AI Policy Expert | Independent Board Director | Beauty in the Unexpected

Vilas Dhar is a prominent figure in the fields of technology, philanthropy, and artificial intelligence policy. He joined the AccessLex Institute Board of Directors in 2022.15 Dhar is currently the President and Trustee of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, a philanthropic organization focused on advancing AI and data solutions for a more equitable and sustainable future.145

Professional Background

Dhar's expertise spans multiple disciplines:

  • Technology: Trained as a computer scientist with degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of Illinois14
  • Law: Holds a J.D. from NYU School of Law14
  • Public Policy: Earned a Master's in Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School of Government14

He is currently pursuing a doctoral dissertation at the University of Birmingham, focusing on novel approaches to economic and policy infrastructure for data-enabled societies.15

Notable Positions and Contributions

  • President and Trustee of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation (since July 2020)6
  • Board member of AccessLex Institute (since September 2022)6
  • US Government Nominated Expert to the Global Partnership on AI24
  • Member of the Advisory Council at Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI)24
  • Co-Chair of the Global AI Action Alliance at the World Economic Forum12
  • Expert Contributor to OECD.AI24
  • Board member of the Network of Engaged International Donors26
  • Trustee of the Christensen Fund26

Dhar is recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and has held fellowships at institutions such as the Berggruen Institute and the Rockefeller Foundation's Bellagio Center.24

Focus Areas

Vilas Dhar is known for his advocacy on:

  • Equity in a tech-enabled world45
  • AI policy and its impact on human outcomes45
  • Empowering individuals and communities in shaping the digital future45

His work bridges the gap between technological advancements and social impact, with a particular emphasis on creating equitable and sustainable solutions through AI and data science.34

Highlights

Jan 1 · accesslex.org
Board of Directors - AccessLex
Vilas Dhar on Transforming Power through AI
Vilas Dhar on Transforming Power through AI
Oct 5 · accesslex.org
AccessLex Institute Announces Appointment of Vilas Dhar to the ...
Jan 4 · PR Newswire
Foundation awards more than $10 million to drive digital equity and to support relief and recovery for vulnerable communities - PR Newswire
Mar 30 · BetaBoston
McGovern Foundation merges with Silicon Valley nonprofit to bring tech to philanthropy sector - BetaBoston

Related Questions

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Vilas Dhar
Vilas Dhar, photo 1
Vilas Dhar, photo 2
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Location

Boston, Massachusetts, United States