[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Mathieson_Matthew.jpg” caption=”President Peter George and Cambridge Food and Wine Society co-founder Leo Chan present the Lincoln Alexander Award to Matthew Mathieson on May 7. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]Matt Mathieson didn't formally apply for the Lincoln Alexander Award, but a chance meeting ensured that his resume was seen by the selection committee.

The McMaster biochemistry student received the award from the Cambridge Food and Wine Society on Monday, May 7 in Convocation Hall. It was presented by the Society's co-founder Leo Chan.

“I met Mr. Chan while playing piano for a couple of the Society's events where I got to know him a little,” recalls Mathieson. “I gave him one of my CDs that I recorded in my last year of high school. He also knew of my involvement in athletics so when it came time to find a recipient for the award I guess he thought I was a good candidate.”

It's little wonder. Mathieson exemplifies the well-rounded student, one who combines (seemingly effortlessly) academics, sports, music and volunteer work.

He played piano and violin for the Mississauga Youth Orchestra for six years, served as concertmaster for an opera production during an exchange in New Zealand, played organ for his church, and performed solo gigs for a variety of events and charitable fundraisers.

He plays rugby and with McMaster's team won the Ontario University Athletics gold medal three out of four years.

He has been on the Marauder Scholar List and the Dean's Honour Roll during his time at McMaster. Having just completed his B.Sc. in biochemistry as well as a diploma in music performance, Mathieson hopes to enter medical school in the fall.

“Growing up with a sister who has cerebral palsy and my mom who is a nurse is what spurred my decision to pursue medicine as a career,” Matt says.

The award, endorsed by its namesake The Honourable Lincoln Alexander in 2005, recognizes the exceptional achievement by a Canadian university/college student in athletics, music, visual or performing arts. It is presented annually.