Matthew was a regular and friendly face in the PhD office in POLIS.  I don't want to just harp on about how good he was at his job-- and he was totally amazing.  But, more than that, he was just so kind and so caring.  I'm really struggling to find the right words as none seem to do him justice, but he will be sorely missed.   I cannot imagine coming back to campus and not seeing his face or having him help arrange a welcome back party for the PGRs (he did a fabulous job with our Christmas party---and he certainly raised an eyebrow at the office request of a chocolate fountain). 

I did not know him well, and I wish I had taken the time to get to know him better,  but I think it was important to him that people always felt supported and were able to have as many moments, however small, of joy.  It was impossible not to smile when Matthew was around.