Matias Bernal is a nonprofit leader with more than 15 years of experience working for social justice, immigrant rights, and community development in California. As a queer Latino and immigrant, Matias has dedicated his career to expanding opportunities for communities that are often left out, including immigrants, LGBTQ+ people, farmworkers, and rural residents.
He earned a Ph.D. in Organizational Psychology from UC Irvine, along with graduate degrees in Criminology and Psychology and multiple bachelor’s degrees from Fresno State.
Matias has worked on efforts ranging from violence prevention and disability rights to economic opportunity and leadership development. Growing up in the Central Valley, he brings the perspective of communities that are too often overlooked in statewide conversations. He uses that experience to lift up regional voices, connect communities across California, and mentor the next generation of leaders.
