Dr. Matthew Stafford, a retired U.S. Air Force officer and distinguished academic, has spent his career shaping leaders, building innovative education programs, and defending American values—both in uniform and in the classroom. With six academic degrees and nearly 30 years of service—including roles like Chief Learning Officer for Air Education and Training Command, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Air University, and Dean of Faculty at the Federal Executive Institute—Dr. Stafford has helped guide military and civilian professionals across the globe. Now based in Dyersburg, Tennessee, he continues to share his expertise with the public.

In this episode, you’ll hear about his unlikely path from “lousy student” to Ph.D., his views on civic engagement in today’s America, and why he believes small-town conversations may hold the key to big national challenges.

Dr. Stafford is presenting a free, four-part community education series titled “U.S. Values and the Constitution” at McIver’s Grant Public Library in Dyersburg, where he will explore the philosophical and historical foundations of American democracy. The series will be held each Thursday evening from September 11 to October 2, 2025, and requires advance registration.