By Nathan Duff, Delta State University
Delta State University has named Matty Bengloff as the new Executive Director of the Bologna Performing Arts Center. Bengloff will oversee the center’s operations, programming and community partnerships as the venue continues its role as a cultural hub for the Mississippi Delta and surrounding region.
A longtime Cleveland resident, Bengloff brings a background in operations management, project leadership, education administration and community engagement to the position. His career includes leadership roles in both the private and nonprofit sectors, along with extensive involvement in civic and arts organizations across the Delta.
Bengloff is the owner and operator of Delta Dairy Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt in downtown Cleveland, a business he founded in 2013. Earlier in his career, Bengloff served in leadership roles with Teach For America, where he worked to strengthen district partnerships and support teacher placement across Arkansas and Mississippi. He also served as Director of Special Projects for RePublic Charter Schools and previously led a $10 million federal Race to the Top initiative for the Clarksdale Municipal School District, overseeing a multi school initiative focused on literacy, technology and college and career readiness.
“Matty’s leadership experience, operational background and strong ties to the Cleveland community make him an excellent choice to lead the Bologna Performing Arts Center,” said Dr. Daniel J. Ennis, President of Delta State University. “The BPAC is one of the region’s most important cultural venues, and we are excited to see how his vision and energy will continue to strengthen its impact on campus and throughout the Mississippi Delta.”
Bengloff has also been deeply involved in civic and cultural organizations throughout Bolivar County. He currently serves on the executive board of the Cleveland/Bolivar County Chamber of Commerce, where he is Vice President and President Elect. He also served as Board Chair of Team Cleveland / Cleveland Main Street and is the Board Secretary of the Delta Arts Alliance.
Bengloff earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Southern Methodist University, where he was a Presidential Scholar.
“I’m honored to join Delta State and the Bologna Performing Arts Center,” Bengloff said. “The BPAC plays an important role in bringing arts, education and cultural experiences to the Mississippi Delta, and I look forward to working with the university and community partners to continue building on that legacy.”
The Bologna Performing Arts Center presents national touring performances, educational programming and community events each year, serving audiences from across the Mississippi Delta and the Mid South.