Tucked away in the Campus Activities Office, located in lower level Gallagher Center, sits the headquarters of Mati Ortiz, Niagara University’s director of campus activities.
However, that is not her only title on campus. Ortiz is also the NUSGA advisor, sitting in on numerous meetings while offering guidance and advice to each delegation.
This NU powerhouse can most likely be found in her office, in meetings, conversing with students in Gally, or waiting in the Tim Hortons line for her coffee fix. Throughout her 25-year career, Ortiz has also obtained other meaningful titles, including wife, mother, mentor, and role model, which motivate her to strive for excellence each day.
After attending Hutchinson Central Technical High School, a college-preparatory institute in Buffalo, N.Y., Mati went on to earn a dual degree in communication studies and child and youth services from Medaille College. Her education didn’t stop there. In May 1994, she earned a master’s degree in higher education administration from Buffalo State College.
Ortiz has brought the knowledge, experience and expertise she has accumulated to Niagara University, and has gained respect and gratitude from others. She is present, hands on and devotes of all her efforts and attention to any project or task she decides to tackle.
Outside of her role at NU, Ortiz’s family keeps her grounded and supports her in everything she does. Having been married to her husband for almost 23 years, the couple have grown their family by two. Ortiz’s son, age 19, currently attends NU while her daughter, age 17, will be an incoming Purple Eagle this fall.
After a long day of work, Ortiz loves coming home to unwind and watch television. This is where she can relax and take time to herself, which helps her come back to NU refreshed and level-headed each day.
Another activity Ortiz likes to indulge in is going out to see live local music. She especially enjoys Artpark concerts.
Apart from local activities, Ortiz also loves to travel. She has been to numerous places on the map and plans family vacations to exotic destinations that everyone can enjoy.
Ortiz’s sense of humor and bubbly personality make her easily approachable to family, students and fellow faculty. She is always willing to lend a helping hand, meet with students and, furthermore, simply get to know them for who they are. Her motherly role often extends to students by giving them advice and guidance if need be.
No matter how busy she is, Ortiz will find time to respond to emails and meet with anyone who needs her. Her determination and drive give her the respect she deserves and makes her a person students look up to.
Ortiz is an expert at what she does and her professionalism does not go unnoticed. The purple pride and love for NU that courses through Ortiz is reflected through her work and relationship with students, which has continued throughout her time at the university.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Public Relations Student Society of Niagara is spotlighting some of Niagara University’s most influential female faculty and staff.