Bernard Kavaler has enjoyed a diverse professional life keynoted by public service, support of the nonprofit sector, and commitment to community. He is founding principal of Express Strategies, an independent communications and public policy consulting business, and managing editor of Connecticut by the Numbers, a news website. Prior to that, Kavaler was assistant vice chancellor for public affairs at the Connecticut State University System (2007–12).
Kavaler has also served in various communications roles in Connecticut state government, including the offices of the State Treasurer (1999–2007), Secretary of the State (1995–99), and Attorney General (1991–95).
Kavaler is president of the Connecticut Foundation for Open Government, and serves on the board of Leadership Greater Hartford. He is also involved with the Connecticut Immigrant and Refugee Coalition and the World Affairs Council's Maps for All initiative.
Kavaler has been an active volunteer at the University. He is past president and a longtime member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. In addition, he was a member of the College of Arts and Sciences Board of Visitors and has participated in student mentoring programs.
He earned a bachelor's degree from the College of Arts and Sciences in 1979, and an MPA from the Barney School of Business in 1988.