Mandy Matson - Assistant Director, Academic Support Services / Director, Writing Services ASSIGNMENTS–Gymnastics, Women's Soccer - Staff Directory

Staff Directory

Mandy Matson

Title:
Assistant Director, Academic Support Services / Director, Writing Services
ASSIGNMENTS–Gymnastics, Women's Soccer
Email:
Phone:
412-648-1446

Mandy Matson began work with Academic Support Services for Student Athletes in March of 2015. She now serves as the unit’s Assistant Director, acting as the Academic Counselor for Gymnastics and for Women’s Soccer, as well as the Director of Writing Services, where she oversees the Athletic Department’s Writing Lab and a staff of talented graduate student tutors.

Matson joined the Academic Support staff after serving as an editorial assistant for a peer-review science journal, and as an adjunct faculty member in the Learning Skills Division at Duquesne University where she taught introductory courses in literature and composition. A former freelance writer for the Pittsburgh Tribune Review, she has over 15 years of experience in the fields of editing and writing.

Mandy graduated from Allegheny College as a dual major in English and Communication Arts, with a Psychology minor. There she played on the women’s soccer and lacrosse teams and was an avid intramural-er before her knees officially gave up. As a graduate student at the University of Pittsburgh, she earned a Master of Arts in English Literature as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Nonfiction Writing.

A lifelong Pittsburgh native, Mandy resides in Whitehall.

Beyond the Bio
What do you love most about working in athletics?
Our student athletes. I get to spend every day helping many of the university’s brightest young adults navigate the path through academics and athletics. It’s been remarkably rewarding and I feel lucky to have this role.

Favorite Pitt sports moment?
Not a moment, exactly, but it’s been amazing to watch our Women’s Soccer team grow into this powerhouse over the past five years. I can’t say enough about the dedication and efforts of the team and coaching staff – truly remarkable people who’ve fought for and deserve every bit of success they’ve earned!

Favorite quote?
From Macklemore’s song “Ten Thousand Hours”: “The greats weren’t great because at birth they could paint. The greats were great because they paint a lot” – no matter what potential you’re born with, hard work is mandatory for greatness.