PRIDE in Everyday Life: Chantel Mattiola ’15M
AU alumna Chantel Mattiola ’15M explains how Pride exudes throughout her everyday life
Chantel Mattiola ’15M, a leader in the LGBTQ+ community, is a proud alumna who found Arcadia inspiring and supportive of her dreams. Chantel is the granddaughter of Beaver College attendee Kathleen Kidd Moyer, who influenced her decision to attend Arcadia. Mattiola ‘15M has focused on shaping the future of the Human Rights Campaign, a national organization fighting for equal rights for marginalized persons. She aims to bring positive change globally, while leading by example for the next generation of students.
Chantel earned her graduate degree at Arcadia University in International Peace and Conflict Resolution. Now, nearly a decade after earning her degree, she lives in New York City with her wife and their two daughters while they are expecting their third. She works full-time at the Human Rights Campaign as Deputy Director of Special Projects, Development, and attends Fordham Law School as an evening division student. Mattiola ‘15M believes that Arcadia encouraged the pursuit of her passions, gave her a transformational global experience, and provided her with hands-on experiences that she continues to be thankful for today.
She recalls the vibrant stories she once heard about the Glenside campus from her grandmother, who attended Beaver College in the 1950’s. Her grandmother would often praise the student clubs and activities on campus, as well as the education she received. Mattiola ‘15M said:
When my Nana spoke about her time at Beaver College, she always exuded a sense of freedom, autonomy, and the pursuit of something bigger than herself. She recognized that she had an opportunity that was special. Although she had to leave for family reasons, she never once spoke ill about making that decision. There was something about her selflessness and unwavering confidence in making such a hard decision that inspired me – not just to pursue my masters degree at Arcadia University, but to be steadfast throughout life in what I believe are the best decisions for me and my family.
Mattiola ‘15M is cheerful when reminiscing about her time spent at Arcadia University, and described the institution as being “a community of global minded, value-driven students, faculty and staff, who care deeply about making a positive impact in the Philadelphia region and around the world. It’s an honor to be a part of that community.” She remains enthusiastic over sharing the experience with her grandmother.
Chantel Mattiola ‘15M immersed herself in organizations around the University, and took on leadership positions to coincide with her studies in International Peace and Conflict Resolution. She said, “I am forever grateful to my professors at Arcadia University for their guidance and mentorship.” This is why she chooses to support Arcadia University, the current students, and programs whenever she can.
Before receiving her degree in 2015, she interned for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s leading LGBTQ+ civil rights organization. Mattiola ‘15M was also involved as Co-chair of HRC’s Bisexual, Pansexual, Queer, Fluid Employee Resource Group. Showcasing the depth and breadth of HRC’s political and educational work is a point of pride for Mattiola ‘15M. She makes a point to share that it helps HRC’s stakeholders find their own place within the mission… by developing strategic outreach campaigns and initiatives, HRC can attract philanthropists, business leaders, athletes, celebrities, artists, and other leading, influential voices — both in and out of the movement — vested in LGBTQ+ equality. She reports that staying dedicated to HRC is easy, “…because of the people – the staff, supporters, and volunteers are some of the smartest, most passionate, and generous individuals in the movement.”
In her role, she focuses on storytelling, relationship building, and overall advocacy…all with the pursuit to find new and creative ways for people to see themselves in the work for LGBTQ+ equality. Mattiola ‘15M said:
One such effort is HRC Women LEAD, an ongoing initiative that is focused on engaging and activating equality-minded women and non-binary people. Together, we are helping elect pro-equality candidates in the U.S. House and Senate, building leaders in our movement who are committed to combating anti LGBTQ+ legislation, and growing a community of women and non-binary folks who are champions of equality across the country. Women LEAD is my pride and joy because it combines my passion for gender equity and LGBTQ+ equality.
She reminds current and future students that, “Community is so important. Know when to use your voice and be an advocate within your community. Share your story and meet folks where they are…we’re more alike than we’re different!” There’s an evident pride that Mattiola ‘15M exudes wherever she goes. Whether it’s as a proud alumna, parent, partner, activist, or mentor, the Scarlet and Grey will always be flying high with her!
