Matthew Deffendall

Major Exploratory Associate

Matthew has been at the University of Kentucky since 2005 previously serving as an academic advisor in Undergraduate Studies and Director of First Generation Initiatives before joining Stuckert in 2017. Prior to UK, he worked in non-profit organizations in Tuscaloosa, AL, and Berea, KY. Matthew also teaches adjunct for the College of Communication & Information. A native of New Orleans, LA, Matthew has a Bachelors and Masters degrees in Communication from the University of Alabama and is a Ph.D. student in Communication at the University of Kentucky. 

Prior Job that shaped you: I served as executive director of a Boys & Girls Club. I learned a lot about program development, relationships, fundraising, and leadership. 

How he describes himself: A positive person who has never met a stranger. Having lived in Lexington since 2000 Matthew has established a broad network across campus and the community.

What he enjoys doing outside of work: Spending time with his family, traveling, and watching football. Matthew is an avid New Orleans Saints fan and proud alum of the University of Alabama.

A goal in life: To visit all 50 states.

Fun Fact: He played Tuba in high school and college marching band including performing in the 1992 national championship game in football.