Matt Sullivan’s unconventional career in social work began in the police force, shifted to earning a Master of Social Work degree (MSW), working with student athletes, and ultimately led to being the Fire Chief of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The story of his career journey is fascinating and inspiring.
After earning his MSW, Matt had the great fortune to work with Bill Riddick at UNC’s Student Health Services. Bill Riddick worked with Ann Atwater and CP Ellis to conduct charettes to improve school conditions in Durham, North Carolina; work that inspired our webinar, Working Across Difference, with Rotary Peace Scholar Alex Rose.
When Matt first joined the Chapel Hill fire department, he drove Engine 1 out of the main l station. At the time, local legend, Albert Williams, was his Captain. Captain Williams was Chapel Hill’s first Black firefighter. Matt shared, “For many years, he sat right next to me as we drove to emergencies all over Town. Only to realize, many years later, what a significant role he played in our Town’s history. I am grateful that I was eventually privileged to hear his stories.”
You can listen to our full interview with retired Chief Sullivan to hear how and why he pursued an MSW, and how he continues to use his social work training in support of his leadership role at the Chapel Hill Fire Department.
Click here to listen to Matt talk about his career trajectory and why he chose to pursue an MSW degree.
Here you can listen to Matt talk about leadership – how he used his MSW in that role and his advice for social workers looking to take up leadership roles.
Last, Matt shares about what is giving him hope right now.
