Phoenix – October 16, 2026 -- University of Phoenix put three conference sessions on credit for prior learning (CPL), skills recognition and microcredentials in front of higher education leaders at 2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education, held Oct. 13-15 in Washington, D.C.
Marc Booker, PhD., vice provost of Strategy, and Cate Tolnai, director of Microcredentials & Innovation Credential Strategy, represented the university. UPCEA and AACRAO jointly presented the annual conference, which focuses on credentialing, learner mobility and workforce-aligned education.
Booker and Tolnai detail a CPL-to-skills-to-microcredential workflow
The two co-presented "Connecting Value Chains for Mobility: CPL to Skills to Microcredentials." Drawing on University of Phoenix practices and findings, the session outlined a process linking life experiences, education and career pathways through CPL-to-skills-to-microcredential workflows.
Booker said the approach helps institutions deliver value earlier in the student journey, before credential completion.
Tolnai leads futurism session on skills-based hiring and AI-enabled assessment
Tolnai also co-presented "Badgelicious Futurism: Predicting What's Next in #Credovation." The interactive session examined skills-based hiring and AI-enabled assessment as trends shaping credential innovation. Participants used a future-casting framework to test predictions and evaluate implications for current initiatives.
CPL panel previews UPCEA Council for Credential Innovation poll
Tolnai joined the panel "Recognizing What Learners Know: Exploring the Full Spectrum of Credit for Prior Learning." Panelists reviewed CPL approaches including portfolio assessment, challenge exams and workforce-aligned learning recognition, and discussed their use to improve learner mobility, reduce time to completion and create more equitable pathways to credentials.
Attendees received 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. Tolnai took part in three sessions in total.
University of Phoenix expands 2026 conference circuit
In 2026, university representatives also took part in the AACRAO Annual Meeting, ASU+GSV Summit, 1EdTech Learning Impact Conference, SXSW EDU Conference and PESC Data Summit.