Matt Sowcik
Associate Professor
CLD Specialization Coordinator
217 Rolfs Hall
PO Box 112060
Gainesville, FL 32611
352-273-2654
sowcik@ufl.edu
Associate Professor
Dr. Matthew Sowcik is an internationally recognized leadership educator, consultant, and author with over two decades of experience developing leaders. He serves as an Associate Professor of Leadership Development, in the Department of Agricultural Education and Communication (AEC), at the University of Florida. Dr. Sowcik teaches undergraduate and graduate-lvel courses concentrated on interpersonal leadership development, organizational leadership and advanced leadership theory. As a result of his passion for leadership education and connection to students in his class, Dr. Sowcik received the 2020-2021 CALS Undergraduate Teacher of the Year Award. He holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University, an M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Columbia University, and a B.A. in Psychology and Business from Wilkes University.
Widely known for his research on humility in leadership, Dr. Sowcik focuses on how humble leadership can drive organizational success and positive change. He has published extensively in the field and helped establish best practices in leadership education. He is the author of the best-selling book, The H-Factor: The Intersection Between Humility and Great Leadership, a book that explores the critical role of humility in moving leaders from good to great. In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Sowcik was honored as the Outstanding Leadership Scholar of the Year (2019) by the Association of Leadership Educators. His expertise in leadership theory and program design has made him a sought-after voice for advancing leadership development across disciplines.
Beyond academia, Dr. Sowcik bridges theory and practice as a consultant and speaker. Dr. Sowcik runs a year-long program for County Commissioners across the state of Florida, working with them to bring about positive local change to the state. Additionally, he works with organizations to build effective leadership cultures and has trained thousands of professionals through his engaging workshops and programs. Notably, he has provided training for both established companies and startups, like Mohegan Sun Casino, La-Z-Boy, Ebay, The New York Times and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, to name a few. Dr. Sowcik spends his time creating one-of-a-kind leadership trainings and programs helping his participants enhance teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking.
A dynamic speaker, Dr. Sowcik has delivered keynotes and seminars around the world, including in New Zealand and Australia. He is known for his energetic, down-to-earth style that simplifies complex leadership theories into practical tools, empowering audiences to become more humble, strategic, and effective leaders in their organizations.
Awards
- 2017 UF Online Education Excellence Award in Student Engagement
- Distinguished Innovative Practice Poster