Matt is a distinguished senior learning designer and academic technology specialist, dedicated to creating engaging and innovative learning experiences. With over a decade of experience in higher education, he excels in experiential education, learning technology, and accessible content development. He holds a Master's degree in Technology-Based Education from CSU Dominguez Hills and advanced certificates in Design Communication Arts from UCLA. Currently, Matt is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Innovation at Marymount University. His notable achievements include the development of online courses for UCLA and leading a media production team to establish a faculty recording studio. Additionally, he has designed interactive compliance training programs for UCLA's faculty, students, and staff. A prolific writer, Matt has published articles on leadership practices in higher education in both online and print publications. He is also a respected speaker, frequently serving as a panelist and presenter at numerous higher education conferences and webinars.

As an academic technologist and a lead senior learning designer, leadership is integral to my mission of revolutionizing learning through technology. My commitment is rooted in a vision where technology and education merge to enhance understanding and accessibility for all learners. I aim to illuminate and amend ineffective tech practices in academia, championing a shift towards more innovative and effective applications. This endeavor challenges me to adopt new perspectives, actively engage in ongoing research, and maintain a keen sense of empathy and openness. By crafting and advocating for robust models of instructional technology, I persevere against the inertia of traditional educational methods. My goal is to lead with insight and influence, continuously pushing the boundaries of digital learning to foster environments where students not only consume knowledge but actively discover and interact with it. Through this approach, I strive to be a pivotal force in shaping future educational landscapes.

When we think of leadership, effective leaders must excel in direct interactions, facilitating open dialogue and fostering understanding. Body language and other non-verbal cues are crucial in reinforcing spoken messages and demonstrating sincerity. Leaders should actively listen to understand and thoughtfully respond to team members. Sharing compelling stories can inspire and align teams towards common goals. Leaders also need to absorb complex information and distill it into understandable, actionable plans. Being clear and to the point prevents misunderstandings and maintains team focus. Positive reinforcement can motivate and encourage continued effort and loyalty from team members. I believe these skills collectively contribute to more effective, inspiring, and respected leadership model.