MCC Daily Tribune

MCC Proud: Meet Matthew Lawson

Matthew Lawson serves as the Assistant Director of New Student Orientation, First-Year Experience, and Admissions at Monroe Community College (MCC). In this role, he coordinates New Student Orientation and the First-Year Experience (FYE) program, helping welcome new students to the College and ensuring they feel prepared, supported, and excited for their first day of classes.

Having worked at MCC for 13 years, Lawson has received several awards during his tenure at the College. Most recently, he received the Faculty Senate Excellence in Professional Service Award (at the 2026 Employee Recognition Ceremony). Last year, he was recognized with an MCC Champion Award from the Student Government Association, and earlier in his career, he received the League for Innovation’s Innovation of the Year Award.

An MCC alumnus, Lawson discovered his passion for higher education through his student leadership experiences with the Office of Student Life & Leadership Development. Reflecting on his time, he shared, “During my first year as a student involved with Student Government, I remember sitting in Betty Stewart’s office and asking her, ‘How do I do what you do for a living?’ I quickly fell in love with higher education and student development. From that point on, I knew I was destined to work at MCC.”

Lawson has many fond memories from both his time as a student and his years as an employee at MCC. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing students grow throughout their college journey,” said Lawson. “I have the privilege of meeting many students during orientation and then seeing them again at commencement. Watching their transformation and celebrating their accomplishments is truly inspiring.”

When asked what advice he would give current or prospective students, Lawson said, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. There are so many people at MCC who want to see you succeed and are here to support you. Get involved in your learning experience—visit the Tutoring and Academic Assistance Center (TAAC), attend your professors’ office hours, join clubs and organizations, and participate in campus events. Remember, you are in control of your educational journey, and the more you engage, the more successful and rewarding your experience will be.”

Outside of work, Lawson enjoys spending time with his husband and their two dogs, Jake and Luna. He added, “I love the holidays, especially Christmas. Decorating the house and creating a festive atmosphere is something I look forward to every year.”

After attending MCC, Lawson transferred to the University at Buffalo, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a master’s degree in Student Affairs Administration.

Fun Facts About Matthew

Courtney: If you had to eat the same meal at least once a day, what would it be?
Matthew: Mac and cheese.
Courtney: What is your favorite movie?
Matthew: Anything Star Wars-related!
Courtney: What is your favorite sports team?
Matthew: The Buffalo Bills. Go Bills!
Courtney: What is your biggest fear?
Matthew: Heights.
Courtney: Is there anything about you that people are surprised to learn?
Matthew: My husband and I have the same first name. Our friends and neighbors often refer to us as “the Matts.”
Courtney: What destination do you hope to visit one day?
Matthew: Europe.
Courtney: What activities do you participate in over the weekend?
Matthew: I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and our two dogs. In my free time, I love cooking, gardening, relaxing by the pool, and hosting card and game nights with friends. I also enjoy decorating our home for the various holidays throughout the year, especially Christmas, which is my favorite season to celebrate.

Image Caption: Matthew Lawson wearing an MCC polo shirt and smiling at the camera.

Attached Files:
Matthew Lawson.jpg

Courtney Weimar
Community Relations
06/24/2026