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Maxwell Matite

Biography

Profile: It’s astounding to think about how far Maxwell Matite has come – not only in distance from his home in Africa to the plains of Kansas where he attended community college – but the impact he has had on the people he has come in contact with in his years in America.  His story of grit and determination has been well documented by the media in Kansas, and was even highlighted at his college’s graduation ceremony by commencement speaker Sen. Jerry Moran, U.S. Senator for the state of Kansas.  “Maxwell Matite has a remarkable story,” Sen. Moran told the audience in May of 2011. “As a young boy, he grew up in Kenya and came to the United States after his father tragically passed away. He heard about JCCC from a friend and decided to move to Kansas and pursue a major in political science in the honors program – with the goal of one day serving in public office.” Maxwell will be one of the Senator’s neighbors in the fall of 2011 as he’ll be enrolled at American University. 

Inspiration:  Dr. Brian Wright, an associate professor of Political Science and International Relations at JCCC “has been the most influential instructor in my life.” Dr. Wright was one of the first teachers who saw Maxwell’s potential and pushed him to realize it both in and outside the classroom. “I have been able to glean from his vast knowledge and experience throughout my time at JCCC,” said Maxwell.  “His advice on academic issues and life in general have helped shape me into the person I am today.”

Aspiration:  He hopes to get his undergraduate degree in political science and then attend law school. The ultimate goal for Maxwell is to become a Constitutional attorney.

Making a Difference: In addition to working full time while a student and also involving himself with various on-campus service organizations, Maxwell was proud of the fact that he was able to help educate his three younger siblings and see all of them also go to college.

Accolades:  Maxwell was named to the All Kansas Academic Team and received the Johnson County  Community College Oustanding Student Award as well as the Midwest Model United Nations Outstanding Delegates Choice Award.

Interesting Fact:  “I am a political junkie,” said Maxwell. “I can spend the whole day watching political shows and the news.”

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