Michael Blumenthal is a Microsoft MVP, Microsoft Product Manager at NORC, and co-organizer of M365 Chicago. He leads the team that manages and supports NORC’s investments in Microsoft technology, helping his research-focused colleagues work more effectively through collaboration, productivity, and AI-powered tools. A frequent presenter at Microsoft Ignite and community events, Michael shares practical insights on Microsoft 365 Copilot, adoption, service change management, governance, and the modern workplace.
Michael has deep expertise in Microsoft collaboration technologies. After starting his career as a software developer building intranets for conferences, he started working with SharePoint Portal Server 2003 when it was in beta. His life has never been the same. He’s designed, implemented, and supported intranets, extranets, and Internet sites for clients in a diverse set of markets. He’s been leading teams to successfully plan, deploy, and support the broader set of Microsoft 365 collaboration workloads since 2014. Michael holds numerous Microsoft certifications including the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Productivity certification and previously held the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from the Project Management Institute.
Microsoft first recognized Michael as an MVP in 2015. He has also been recognized as an INETA Community Champion in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. He was the first member of the Microsoft Midwest Toastmasters club to obtain the Competent Communicator, Advanced Communicator Bronze, and Advanced Communicator Silver awards.
In January of 2023, Michael was recognized as one of the top 100 Unified Communications Influencers.