Mama Matt's Corner

Hi there, 

My name is Ellenia Matthews, but many of you know me as Mama Matt!  I am a 3LE, yes a non-traditional, part-time evening student, all of forty-something years old with three adult children 23, 29, and 30. I’m a

former, athlete, coach, and sports mom. My admission to at the time Cleveland-Marshall College of law, was not easy.  I knew that I always wanted to go to law school and one day sit the bench, but I didn’t quite know how I would or could do it.  To quote Langston Hughes poem Mother to son, “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.”  I openly share that I applied to this school alone ten times before I was admitted, but the day that I received the call telling me that I was admitted was one of the best days of my life. I whispered to Dean Andelman “thank you” because I couldn’t find my voice.  I even asked if she was sure that she meant to call me.  My eyes water at that thought of it. You see it was the day after the anniversary of my grandmother passing and I was already emotional, but I knew that she and my grandfather was watching.  All I ever wanted to do in life was make my grandparents and my parents proud by never giving up on my dreams. 

This journey hasn’t been easy, but along the way, a lot of you have made this experience special, so as my way of giving back, I welcome you to Mama Matt’s Corner. Here, you can ask for non-legal advice, see what my perspective is on our school community, a mom on the go recipe, and just ask Mama Matt whatever you wish.  This edition’s message is to my 3L’s: Take it from me, you don’t get a “do over” this is the last time that you will walk these halls as JD Candidate/law school student.  Don’t take it for granted. Love on those who love you, embrace those who embrace you. You are the author of your destiny! 

I hope to hear from you soon! 

Mama Matt 

e.matthews1@cmlaw.csuohio.edu