Matthew Stewart is the newest member of Fanshawe Student Union executive council. He joined the team at the end of September as the Vice President of Athletics and Residence Life.

Hailing from Brisbane, Australia, he was scouted by Fanshawe for the men's volleyball team, of which he is currently the captain. He juggles daily volleyball practices with being a student in Fanshawe's Graphic Design program and fulfilling the duties required of Vice President of Athletics and Residence Life, such as attending and hosting events. "If you are good at time management, then this is the role for you," he said. "It's definitely beneficial to your career, as you can put it on your resume."

I spoke with Stewart about his plans for the future.

Why did you choose to run for this position?
"I previously worked for Athletics and played varsity and noticed a lot of little things that I would like changed."

What changes have you made so far?
"I initiated the Game Awareness Program to bring more attention to varsity sports. Using Freddy the Falcon, promotions and talking to people, we spread details of high-profile sporting games. Our first trial run was the women's soccer match against the Sheridan Bruins; despite the weather, we increased attendance from 15 people to around 100."

How would you describe yourself?
"Very outgoing, my main goal is to have fun and I am very approachable."

Where can you be reached?
"I'm usually in the Fanshawe Student Union office in the SC building (room SC2001), I also check my e-mails daily, so if you want to check the FSU website (fsu.ca), my e-mail is on there."

What are your goals for this year?
"My main goal is to get more of a connection between Athletics and the main body of the school, that doesn't always participate; provide students with the kind of lifestyle they want at Fanshawe; and increase participation amongst students."

Despite growing up in another country halfway across the world, Stewart said, "Canada and Australia share a world of similarities. Personality is the same here; the only thing that's different is the accent, but I don't even think I sound different."

The newest addition to the executive team brings a lot of experience with him, especially from the athletic perspective, and he is extremely approachable. Come out to varsity games and support the Falcons!