Why stop when you’re on a roll? Runway shows, fabulous clothes and an insider look at the fashion industry rocked Kate Matelan’s world when she interned last summer for MTTM, a New York City design house. So this 22-year old senior at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa.—a business management/legal studies major—took the next step. How? She accepted a second internship as researcher and fact-checker for Niche Media, a producer of high-end luxury magazines.
Two challenging internships should be plenty to keep the average girl busy. But Kate Matelan’s not your average girl. When one of Kate’s deans invited her to enter a unique competition, she rose to the challenge. Representing her home state of Pennsylvania, Kate pursued the title of Ms. Wheelchair USA. Judging included private and onstage interviews, stage presence, speaking ability, personal accomplishments and platform. On a balmy July night in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Kate rolled across the stage in style—and won!
Sudden Impact
A car accident left her wheelchair bound at age 5 when the driver (Kate’s babysitter) had a heart attack and died instantly. The vehicle collided with a tree, and the active little girl was paralyzed from the chest down. Thankful to have use of her arms, she’s endured several surgeries to correct the aftereffects of her injuries.
As Kate sees it, her Ms. Wheelchair USA crown means more than a rhinestone tiara, fancy clothes and super shiny lip gloss. The title also carries the opportunity to extend her platform nationwide. A passionate advocate for the disabled community, Kate knows that communication matters. She loves to help college students and faculty work together to identify the barriers disabled students face every day.
Kate’s make-a-difference philosophy began at home—on her own Buckner campus. Here, she met with leaders to help identify obstacles such as standard height lab tables, unreachable by students in wheelchairs. Kate emphasizes the importance of real dialogue and a commitment to working together. At Buckner, her efforts have led to positive change.
Roll Model
This enthusiastic young woman has long-term goals, too. She hopes to see more students with disabilities attend classes on campus, have the full university experience and reach their ultimate potential. Once again, she leads the way—wheelchair and all. As a Delta Gamma sorority member, she’s served her dorm as a resident assistant, one more opportunity to make a difference.
Kate also rolls through her responsibilities as editor-in-chief of Be, Bucknell’s fashion magazine. “Pinpointing my favorite designer is very difficult, but I’d have to say it’s Marc Jacobs,” she says. “He’s an incredible designer with an edge and interesting eye for design. His funky accessories can give a simple outfit a twist. I also love vintage shopping, mixing and matching pieces from many different stores.”
Her love for dress-up helps Kate stand out—even in a chair. “I went to all of my high school dances, including prom. My wheelchair didn’t hold me back from having fun and enjoying time with my friends.” In fact, her funniest pageant moment happened when a last-minute zipper malfunction threatened her return to stage. “I had to get back out there in a hurry, so my evening gown was held together by safety pins!”
Ready to Roll
Today, Kate has a new prayer to accompany her new title. She’s asking God to open doors to other university campuses. Eager to take her platform on the road, she hopes to share her experiences as an advocate for the disabled community. She longs to improve the lives of others who are wheelchair bound but spirit-free. With this kind of energy, Kate should be on a roll—and making a difference—for a long time.
Up Close and Personal
What’s the hardest thing about being in a wheelchair?
“Because I’m in a chair, people often label me as mentally incapable. Like any stereotype, this one’s tough to eliminate, but I try to educate those around me so their perspectives can improve.”
How do you define disabled?
“Rather than ‘NOT abled,’ I believe it stands for ‘abled in a new way.’ A disability itself doesn’t define you. Your attributes and accomplishments do.”
How has your faith made a difference in your life?
“My faith helps me understand that I was in a car accident for a reason. I believe it’s helped me get through the obstacles I’ve faced thus far and will face in the future, too.”
What’s your message to other disabled girls?
“My message is clear: Be confident, be bold, be yourself, be relentless! Don’t let anyone hold you back from going after your dreams.”
Andrea Stephens is the author and founder of The B.A.B.E. Event: Teaching Teen Girls they are Beautiful, Accepted, Blessed, and Eternally Significant™. She loves to help teens in local detention centers and ride her tandem with hubby, Bill. Find her at www.andreastephens.com.