Current Position and Past Experience
Matt Bergman, PhD, is a Senior Fellow with Kentucky’s Council on Postsecondary Education, Partner Faculty member at the University of Louisville, and President and Founder of the Center for Academic Innovation. His research and practice focus on adult learner persistence, Credit for Prior Learning, leadership, and innovative degree-completion pathways. A CAEL Ambassador and active ACHE leader, Bergman’s work has been recognized with national awards and featured in outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, NPR, Inside Higher Education, and The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Education, Honors and Achievements
Bergman holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development from the University of Louisville, a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from Appalachian State University, and a Bachelor of Science from Union Commonwealth University.

Personal Details and Community Involvement
Outside of his professional work, Matt enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and being involved in his local community. A former collegiate and professional athlete, he values daily movement and outdoor activities, including hiking and coaching youth sports. He also volunteers on local boards focused on economic development and historic preservation. Matt is passionate about storytelling, mentoring, and creating spaces, both personally and professionally, that bring people together around learning, community, and shared purpose.