Awards

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2024

Chancellor and Provost Medallion - 2019

IUPUI Chancellor's Medallion

Indianapolis, Indiana

Presenter: Nasser H. Paydar

About Matthew Steward

For more than three decades, Matthew Steward's vision and leadership at the Steward Speakers Power Series has brought prominent African-American speakers to Indianapolis, each offering a unique and powerful perspective on local challenges. The distinguished list of previous presenters includes Secretary of State Colin Powell, award-winning actress Viola Davis, gospel recording artist Kirk Franklin, entertainer Steve Harvey, former special assistant to President Obama Valerie Jarrett, and social activist Dick Gregory. Committed to fostering these important and meaningful conversations that bridge the gap between individuals, IUPUI partnered with the Steward Speakers Power Series to become its first title sponsor in 2015.

Steward is a 34-year veteran of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department where he is assigned to the Neighborhood Outreach Program. He earned his bachelor's degree in political science from Indiana University's College of Arts and Sciences. Steward is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and he serves on the Board of Deacons at New Liberty Missionary Baptist Church.