John Miao

Community Builder | Business Development Director | First-Gen

John Miao is passionate about empowering communities through knowledge sharing. Throughout his career, he has helped organizations leverage technology to foster collaboration, build meaningful engagement, and create sustainable value for their communities. As Director of Business Development at Brainsy, he works with associations, nonprofits, professional societies, and enterprises to develop branded knowledge-sharing networks and community platforms that strengthen relationships while creating new opportunities for growth.

John's perspective has been shaped by experiences navigating different cultures and unfamiliar environments. As an American raised overseas, John experienced the challenges of adapting to a new cultural environment when he returned to the United States. A first-generation college graduate, he earned his B.A. in Environmental Science from UCLA. Early in his career, he followed his desire to help others and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Thailand, reinforcing his commitment to cross-cultural collaboration and community development. He went on to earn his M.S. in International Economic Development at the University of Pennsylvania.

Today, John continues to support organizations that use technology to strengthen communities and expand access to knowledge. He also serves as an advisor and business development consultant for BioTech Funding Portal, a crowdfunding platform that helps life science companies connect with investors and accelerate innovation.

John’s story reminds students that careers are rarely linear. Through service, resilience, and a willingness to embrace new experiences, he encourages young people to embrace uncertainty, persevere through challenges, and find meaning by helping others.