Matthew Shapiro graduated, in the fall of 2013, from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. While there, he created his own degree through the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies program. He integrated Sociology, Public Policy, and Special Education classes to create his Advocacy for Social Justice Degree. He also earned a second major in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. He hopes to use this background to become a disability advocate in the future.
To gain experience in the advocacy arena, Matthew has participated in several internships including one at the White House, The US Department of Transportation and several Richmond area disability organizations.
Matthew also serves on a variety of boards including serving as the chair of the USBLN SAC for the 2014 in 2015 years.
In addition to all his advocacy work, in his free time, Matthew enjoys watching sports, mainly VCU Men’s basketball and Washington Redskins football. He also loves playing with his dog, VP.
Matthew loves his family very much. His mother and father Eve and Barry Shapiro and brother Jason have always been supportive of his dreams. He knows that without the support of his family none of his goals would have been accomplished.