Matthew Thomas
GIS and Research Specialist
Date of Hire – July 2019
Education: M.S., Urban Studies, Certificate in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), Levin College of Urban Affairs, Cleveland State University / B.M., Music Theatre, Baldwin Wallace University
Describe yourself in three words
Loyal, Conscientious, Spirited
What motivates you in your work? Data and maps of course!! Being able to provide data and research that aid in decision-making and seeing end results (e.g., a new home being built), is incredibly rewarding. Being part of such a dedicated and talented team keeps me walking through the doors with a big smile every day.
What is the best advice you ever received? Eat the frog! “If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.” – Mark Twain
What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you? My passion for cities and urban environments began when I attended high school at the Chicago Academy for the Arts in downtown Chicago while living in South Bend, IN. The commute consisted of a two-and-a-half-hour train ride each way, every day!
What’s playing in your car right now? NPR, Flume, Thom Yorke, Philip Glass, Janelle Monáe, BANNERS
What do you do for fun? I love nature and the outdoors: backpacking/camping trips, bicycling, hiking and kayaking just to name a few. I also love reading and listening to audiobooks, as well as binge-watching Netflix.
What drew you to work at the Cuyahoga Land Bank? I interacted with the Land Bank at my previous job and was always impressed with the staff’s professionalism and dedication. I also believe fully in its mission of enhancing the quality of life for Cuyahoga County residents through improving the built environment. (The electronic standing desks were the icing on the cake!)