As I reflect on my time at MATC, I cannot help but feel overwhelmed at the amount of individuals who had an impact on my journey. In times where I struggled to believe in myself, Student Life’s Juanita Franco pushed me to have confidence. When I realized I wanted to change my pathway, advisor Val Meyer went out of her way to ensure that I was able to graduate on time. When housing became an issue, Student Life Coordinator Margaret Flanagan provided me with every resource possible to assist my situation. At every turn, in every moment of doubt, there was a member of the MATC community that I was able to rely on.
I was able to successfully hold multiple leadership positions at MATC, serving as the Chairperson of our District Student Association and the Managing editor of the MATC Times. In hindsight, there was no question of my success – not because I was an amazing leader, but because I was surrounded by amazing leaders. Former Student Life Director Erich Ziemantz, Student Life Manager Anne Marie Bernard, Former MATC Times Editor-in-Chief D’Allen Davis, MATC President Dr. Anthony Cruz, District Board Director Supreme Moore Omokunde – the list is endless. The examples set for me at MATC have taught me what proper leadership looks like and what, with true service, we can accomplish.
To future students: Show up, invest in yourself, and embrace the work – if you do these three things, you will surely succeed. Send that email, walk into that office, and never hesitate to reach out for assistance, as the faculty and staff at MATC are truly intent on serving our students.
As I continue on to the next step in my journey, I could not be more grateful for the example set for me by our leaders – not just our formal leadership, but those who act in leadership. I cannot say enough about my appreciation for every member of our community who supported me. With a full heart, I say thank you – and remember, you don’t need a leadership position to be a leader, you only need to lead.
