University of Phoenix leaders to share expertise on learner mobility and credential innovation at Convergence 2026

Cate Tolnai and Marc Booker to present University of Phoenix insights on credit for prior learning, skills recognition and microcredential pathways

PHOENIX, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix is pleased to announce that Marc Booker, PhD., vice provost of Strategy, and Cate Tolnai, director of Microcredentials & Innovation Credential Strategy, will present at 2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education, Oct. 13-15 in Washington, D.C.

Presented jointly by UPCEA and AACRAO, the annual conference brings together higher education leaders, practitioners and innovators to explore emerging approaches to credentialing, learner mobility and workforce-aligned education. The event focuses on advancing strategies that help learners translate knowledge, skills and experiences into meaningful educational and career opportunities.

Tolnai will participate in three sessions spanning credential innovation, learner mobility and credit for prior learning, while Booker will join Tolnai in presenting the University's work connecting prior learning, skills recognition and microcredentials to support student success and career-relevant outcomes.

"The conversation around credentials is no longer just about documenting learning; it's about helping learners communicate their capabilities in ways that are meaningful to employers, educators and the learners themselves," shared Tolnai. "As credential innovation continues to evolve, institutions have an opportunity to create more transparent, flexible and learner-centered ways for individuals to showcase what they know and can do."

Connecting value for learners

Booker and Tolnai will co-present the session, "Connecting Value Chains for Mobility: CPL to Skills to Microcredentials." The presentation will explore how institutions can support learner mobility by recognizing the full range of experiences learners bring to higher education and creating stronger connections among credit for prior learning (CPL), skills recognition and microcredentials.

Drawing on University of Phoenix practices and findings, the session will detail a process for connecting life experiences, education and career pathways through CPL-to-skills-to-microcredential workflows. Presenters will share how these approaches can enhance the learner experience while strengthening the value proposition of higher education.

"Innovation in higher education is most impactful when it helps learners see clearer connections between what they have learned, the skills they possess and the opportunities available to them," said Booker. "Creating those connections strengthens learner mobility and helps institutions deliver greater value earlier on in the student journey and prior to credential completion."

Exploring the future of credential innovation

Tolnai will also co-present "Badgelicious Futurism: Predicting What's Next in #Credovation." The interactive session will examine emerging trends shaping credential innovation, including skills-based hiring and AI-enabled assessment.

Participants will use a future-casting framework to explore predictions, evaluate implications for current initiatives and identify strategies for advancing credential innovation within their organizations. The session is designed to provide practical tools and discussion prompts that support long-term strategic planning in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Expanding recognition of prior learning

In addition, Tolnai will participate in the panel discussion, "Recognizing What Learners Know: Exploring the Full Spectrum of Credit for Prior Learning." The session will examine the growing range of CPL approaches available across higher education, including portfolio assessment, challenge exams and workforce-aligned learning recognition.

Panelists will discuss how institutions are using CPL to improve learner mobility, reduce time to completion and create more equitable pathways to credentials. Attendees will also receive an early look at findings from the UPCEA Council for Credential Innovation's landscape poll on current CPL policies, practices and implementation strategies across higher education.

Booker and Tolnai are among the University's leaders regularly invited to share their expertise at national conferences and industry events. In 2026, University of Phoenix representatives participated in the AACRAO Annual Meeting, ASU+GSV Summit, 1EdTech Learning Impact Conference, SXSW EDU Conference and PESC Data Summit, contributing insights on learning innovation, student success and workforce-aligned education.

A complete conference schedule is available on the 2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education conference website.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Michele Mitchum
University of Phoenix
[email protected]

SOURCE University of Phoenix