Stepping in Lockstep with Penn's Vice President of Business Affairs

Michael Scales Steers Renovations and Sustainability at Penn University

Michael Scales, the Vice President of Business Services at the University of Pennsylvania, brings a wealth of experience in campus life to his role. With a background that includes serving as associate vice president of business services and director of campus housing, Scales is well-equipped to oversee the university's various services.

Currently, Scales and his team are managing two active renovation projects: the Sheraton University City and the Hilton Inn at Penn hotels. The aim is to provide a high-quality and consistent experience for members of the Penn community.

Scales's passion for campus environments is evident. He describes himself as someone who is never one to run away from a challenge. This mindset led him to join Penn University in June 2024, after walking through its campus during the 2023 Move-In and feeling a strong connection.

One of Scales's key initiatives is the environmental assessment of Penn Transit, which forms part of Penn's broader climate commitments under the Penn Climate and Sustainability Action Plan 4.0. The goal is to identify opportunities for improving transit service while reducing the University's carbon footprint.

The 1920 Commons is also in the early design phases for a renovation aimed at enhancing students' dining experience. Meanwhile, the Quad is undergoing its third and final phase of renovations to ensure the quality of College Houses for decades.

Business Services at Penn University encompasses a wide range of services, including 13 College Houses, 14 dining locations, Penn Children's Center, hotels, the Morris Arboretum, Penn Bookstore, PennCard services, and commuter transit, among others.

Scales is also spearheading a strategic initiative for the AI Working Group, which aims to align Business Services goals with the University-wide exploration of AI. The group is looking at piloting AI tools to enhance the experiences of students, staff, and the broader community at Penn University.

Being embedded in the physical environment is a significant part of Scales's job at Penn University. He is not only committed to making the campus "hospitable" but also ensures that services are robust in a financially responsible way.

Scales is a member of Morris Arboretum & Gardens, which is part of his portfolio in Business Services. He is also pursuing his doctorate in higher education management at Temple University, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to his field.

Scales's intellectual curiosity is piqued by Penn University, and he often visits local campuses wherever he travels. His dedication to the university and its community is evident, and he continues to work tirelessly to improve the Penn experience for all.