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The impact of Cedarville University professors is far-reaching. For Ty Mathews, they have provided a life-long impact. 

Mathews, who earned a degree in political science in 2018, was recently elected to the Ohio House of Representatives. He will represent the 83rd district. Mathews has always been interested in politics, especially at the state level. Working for Robert Sprague, Ohio’s current treasurer, only enhanced his interest and commitment to serving Ohioans from the Statehouse.   

As a Cedarville student, Mathews was a member of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program.  

“Cedarville University, more than anything else, instilled integrity in my life and actions,” said Mathews. “Having all of my professors invest in me and encourage me spiritually developed those core values of integrity, trust and character that I cherish today.” 

In his junior year, Mathews served as the vice president of his class. In this role, he was able to strengthen his leadership skills while gaining practical experience in his classes. 

“Practical classroom experiences like writing a bill were so helpful,” said Mathews. “I will put these lessons into practice in Columbus.” 

Mathews’ college education prepared him to serve his state and country both abroad and at home. In 2018, Mathews received the Distinguished Military Honor Graduate award, which is awarded to the top 20% of ROTC Army graduates nationwide. After graduation, Mathews served in the U.S. Army National Guard, where he received the Soldier of the Cycle award in basic training and completed a deployment in Iraq. Mathews' most recent public service has been as a legislative and policy assistant in the Ohio Treasurer of the State office. 

 While Mathews credits his Cedarville professors for his academic and personal development, the faculty in the history and government department have similar thoughts about his impact on the department. 

“It’s neat to see him graduate, serve in the army and come back to continue serving through politics,” said Dr. Glen Duerr, the chair of the history and government department. Duerr noted how important Mathews’ win is for the whole department. 

“He’s a real, credible role model for students who want to get into politics. He is someone to look up to,” said Duerr. “We’re seeing a lot of young graduates step up and ask what they can do or what impact they can make with how God’s gifted them.” 

As Mathews anticipates the beginning of his term, he reflects on the impact of taking initiative throughout his studies and embracing every opportunity Cedarville gave him had on his career and life. 

“Don’t be afraid to ask or get involved. Just have faith and do it,” said Mathews. 

Cedarville University, a Baptist institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.