Team
Gary K. Michelson, M.D.
Founder and Co-Chair
Dr. Gary K. Michelson is a board certified orthopedic spinal surgeon, an inventor who holds nearly 1,000 patents throughout the world, the founder and funder of three private foundations, recipient of numerous medical and humanitarian awards, and one of only a small group of individuals to ever be inducted into both the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the National Academy of Inventors.
Alya Michelson
Co-Chair
Alya Michelson is an artist, philanthropist, and journalist who is passionate about uplifting women’s and immigrant stories. She led an awarded career in journalism covering business, political, and military matters for Russian press and elected officials before moving to the United States and launching a career as an artist working in multiple genres. Alya also holds a Master’s Degree in Economics.
Philip J. Kim
Senior Advisor, Education & Equity
Phillip Kim advises the Michelson Center for Public Policy on its policy efforts related to educational access. He has led The Michelson 20MM Foundation, the education practice of Michelson Philanthropies, since 2015. With a background in entrepreneurship and venture capital, he has also overseen the development of the social impact investment platforms at Michelson 20MM and Michelson Found Animals, providing seed funding to more than 40 mission-aligned technology startups.