Matthew: B.A., M.S. Eli Broad College of Business, 2004
Sarah: B.A. James Madison College, 2003; M.P.A. College of Social Science, 2005; M.S. Columbia University, 2010
Alumni Service Award: Presented to alumni who have demonstrated service to MSU and/or meritorious public service on a local, state, national or international level.
They are dedicated community leaders, philanthropists and Spartans.
Matt and Sarah Cantwell are dedicated Spartans who have made a significant impact at MSU and in two of MSU’s largest markets: NYC and Chicago. In particular, the Cantwells provided significant leadership and support in the continued expansion and enhancement of SpartyBall, a best-in-class alumni gala that has raised significant support for Chicago Spartans MSU scholarship funds.
Matt holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Eli Broad College of Business and is currently the corporate controller of SC Industries. Sarah has two degrees from MSU: a bachelor’s from James Madison and a master of public administration from the College of Social Science. She also holds a master’s degree from Columbia University and currently works as the vice president of institutional advancement for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Foundation. As a James Madison alumna, Sarah continues to engage with the college.
Both the Cantwells have dedicated considerable time and treasure at the international and national level through their service and leadership on the Alumni Advisory Board, with Sarah serving as president for two years. Additionally, the Cantwells have held leadership roles with the MSU Alumni Club of Metro Chicago, the Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, and the MSU Alumni Club of Greater New York. They are members of the Kedzie, Spartan Bold, Captains Club, JMC Lifetime Founders Circle and Landon Legacy giving societies. The impact of their leadership, engagement with other Spartans and alumni clubs, service to communities inside and outside the alumni arena, and philanthropic contributions to MSU are stellar examples of what the Alumni Service Award represents.
“It’s been great getting to know different Spartan communities over the years. It’s been a great opportunity to give back to try to make our communities better. Hopefully, we make a little bit of a difference.”
Who will make a difference in their community? Spartans Will.