Throughout the year, we feature Crandall alumni by sharing their stories. Spotlight stories keep us connected with our alums, highlighting what they have been doing since leaving Crandall and how their time at Crandall has influenced their lives during and after their studies.

Today’s Alumni Spotlight Story features Matt Robertson, who graduated in 2012 with a BEd. Matt is married to Bethany (nee Lipscombe), BA English, BEd 2010, and they have a one-year-old son, Oscar.

Matt’s Journey from Crandall to a Diverse Career Path

Matt was born and raised in Moncton and initially, was recruited by Crandall to play basketball. However, looking to leave Moncton, he chose to attend St. Thomas University to study journalism. After completing his degree, Matt thought his true calling might be education. In 2011, he felt a pull to return to Crandall to pursue his education degree while playing basketball for the Crandall Chargers. “It felt like God was calling me back to Moncton,” Matt says. “God pushed me in that direction.”

Favourite Aspects of Studying at Crandall

Matt fondly remembers Crandall’s small class sizes and tight-knit community. “I came from a small university to an even smaller one at Crandall, and I loved it. That was a massive piece for me,” he reflects. One of the things that stood out the most was how Crandall integrated his faith with his education. “The way that they integrated faith and education was cool to experience at Crandall,” he shares. “Chapel was a peaceful break during the day for me to reflect on God. I found myself going more often than required because I loved that time.” For Matt, Crandall offered the opportunity to connect both his academic and spiritual lives in a way that wasn’t possible elsewhere.

Impactful People at Crandall

Throughout his time at Crandall, more than a few people made a lasting impact on Matt. Professors like Stacie Reck, Stewart West, Brian Taylor, and Vince Ryan shaped his educational experience. Even though he didn’t have Keith Bodner as a professor, Matt appreciated the encouragement Bodner offered him. He also credits Steve Dempster, who coached him in baseball as a kid, and Dave Cook, who later gave him a job in admissions. “Dave taught me so much—he was gracious but firm, a great leader,” Matt says. “Crandall has a special place in my heart. It left a big imprint on me as a student, coach, and employee.”

Life After Crandall

After receiving his BEd, Matt initially didn’t see himself as a teacher. “I thought I’d be in the classroom for the next 25 years, but life took me in a different direction,” he admits. A former Crandall basketball coach, Greg Maillet, and Crandall alum Nick Earle encouraged him to head to Toronto for a professional basketball tryout.

Matt played for the Moncton Miracles in the National Basketball League of Canada for three years. Coming to the end of this time, Dave Cook offered him a role in Crandall’s admissions. “That was my reintroduction to Crandall,” Matt recalls. “I traveled across Canada recruiting for Crandall, and what an experience that was.”

After a break from playing, Matt returned as an assistant coach with the Miracles and later with the Moncton Magic. Eventually, he moved into Sales and training in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. However, after feeling burnt out, Matt realized that money wasn’t the highest priority anymore. “(My career) wasn’t adding value to my life, and I needed a change,” he shares. This led to him embarking on what has been a fulfilling career as a Financial Advisor. He now works at Retirement Planning Solutions under Josh McWilliam, whom he calls a “great mentor.” “This career is all I’ve wanted,” Matt says. “I enjoy meeting and working with people, solving puzzles, and creating financial strategies.”

How Crandall Prepared Him for His Future

Matt’s education at Crandall prepared him in ways he hadn’t expected. “I thought I was going to be a teacher in the classroom forever, but the skills I learned at Crandall have been invaluable,” he says. “Learning how to connect with people and communicate in a way that works for them has helped me in every job I’ve had.”

Back to Basketball

Despite a shift in careers, Matt remains deeply involved with basketball. He currently plays for the Moncton Tri City Tide, a semi-professional team. Crandall will be home to their games when they begin in March.   He also enjoys being an assistant coach for Crandall’s Men’s Basketball team. “It brings a lot of joy to me,” he says. “So many people poured into me over the years, and now I get to pass that along to the next generation of players.”

Passion for People

Matt’s true passion is loving and serving others. “I’m passionate about loving people, whether that’s my clients, players, family, or community,” he reflects. “I want to show Jesus’ love to people.” His compassion is evident in every aspect of his life, from his work as a financial advisor to his coaching and community involvement.