Get to Know … Laura Matthews

As the College of Engineering’s manager of Academic Policies and Procedures, Laura Matthews works closely with undergraduates behind the scenes, ensuring first-years are enrolled in the right classes and seniors are certified for graduation. But her devotion to students is perhaps best seen through her involvement in the Engineering Well-Being Committee, which she helped to found in 2020. For her commitment, Matthews was recognized last spring with the College’s Rev. William Farrell Award, given annually to a faculty or staff member who demonstrates exceptional care and concern for students.

ACTIVE LISTENER

Empathy is one of Matthews’ Clifton Strengths, and she employs her gift by lending an ear. When the idea for a well-being committee was proposed, Matthews was eager to participate. “If I could somehow help to foster a community that would help students feel more connected, I wanted to be able to do that,” she says. “What could I do knowing that college is often the time when mental health issues arise? What could I do to ease our students’ journey and point them in a positive direction?”

THE WRITE STUFF

A journal-keeper since second grade, Matthews says it’s amazing to look back at past entries and see her growth. “Writing out my thoughts and feelings on a blank piece of paper is very helpful and cathartic,” she says. “I’ve often gifted notebooks to people, saying, ‘This has helped me; maybe it’ll help you. Give it a try!’”

DOG’S BEST FRIEND

Matthews has trained five Seeing Eye dogs since Fall 2010, when she learned about the program at Villanova’s Special Olympics Fall Festival. She loves puppy training, but it’s not for everyone, she notes, as you must open your heart to a pup for an entire year before saying goodbye forever. “Service to others is a big part of who I am,” she says. “If there is something I can do to better someone else’s life, such as raising a dog that will provide them with independence and dignity, sign me up. It is my way of giving back and making a difference.”

As the College of Engineering’s manager of Academic Policies and Procedures, Laura Matthews works closely with undergraduates behind the scenes, ensuring first-years are enrolled in the right classes and seniors are certified for graduation. But her devotion to students is perhaps best seen through her involvement in the Engineering WellBeing Committee, which she helped to found in 2020. For her commitment, Matthews was recognized last spring with the College’s Rev. William Farrell Award, given annually to a faculty or staff member who demonstrates exceptional care and concern for students.