Matthew (he/him) is from Smithville, Missouri, and he is excited to call Kearney his new home. Matthew caught the performing bug at an early age making his debut on his parent’s fireplace. In high school, he was inspired by his Theatre teacher to use the performing arts as a way to serve and engage students and communities. Matthew earned a BSE in Speech Communication and Theatre Education and a minor in Dance from the University of Central Missouri. While at UCM, he participated in over 20 productions serving as a Director, Actor, Stage Manager, Designer, Technician, and leader for Dr. Ed See’s Student Teacher’s Organization and Theta Alpha Phi. He is a nationally ranked speech competitor and internationally-recognized debater, having debated in Ireland and England. Outside of the University, Matthew served as a Teaching Artist and Education intern for the Coterie Theatre and Rose Theater where he led Pre-K-12th grade Creative Drama and production classes. Most recently, he served as an Administrative intern at the Unicorn Theatre, working with the Development, Marketing, and Production Management divisions.