Matias Bernal is a seasoned nonprofit leader and advocate with over 15 years of experience advancing social justice, immigrant rights, and community‑driven development across California. A proud queer Latino and undocumented immigrant, Matias has worked across sectors to build power and opportunity for historically excluded communities—including immigrants, LGBTQ+ communities, farmworkers, and rural residents.

He holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Psychology from UC Irvine, an M.A. in Psychology and M.S. in Criminology from Fresno State University, and four bachelor’s degrees in Criminology/Victimology, Spanish Literature, English Literature, and Political Science, also from Fresno State University.

Rooted in California’s Central Valley, Matias brings a systems‑thinking lens and a deep commitment to regional equity. He continues to mentor emerging leaders of color while advocating for lasting change at both community and structural levels.