What were you doing at age 19? Maybe attending class or going to work.
For Matthew Mitchell, that age marked a pivotal moment, shaped by his experience with VyStar. It led him first into the heart of Florida’s political landscape and now back to his roots as he works to positively impact the lives of high school students.
Laying the Foundation
In 2019, Matthew made history as the first student branch manager at the Clay High School branch. He came into the position with his eyes wide, braces secured and the determination to learn all he could after being selected among 50 interns for the position.
The branch is part of VyStar’s Academy of Business High School Program, where students run fully functioning branches inside their schools. It gives them hands-on experience in finance, leadership and teamwork while helping their classmates. The program now has branches in 19 schools and impacts thousands of students each year.
“It showed through my work ethic that I put in as a student,” Matthew recalled of being chosen for the branch manager role. “My ability to gather and lead a group is what made me be able to take the role on.”
Throughout his time working at the branch, Matthew took on responsibilities that went far beyond the average student job. Those included managing intern schedules, handling vault operations and teaching financial skills in classrooms. These experiences were important on his path toward leadership.
After graduating from the University of North Florida, Matthew went on to serve as a legislative analyst for both the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and the Florida Department of Education.
A Leap Toward History
In 2024, Matthew made a bold move when he ran for the Clay County School Board District Two seat. At just 19, he would have been the youngest school board member in Florida history if elected. Matthew credited being a student leader for preparing him for the election.
“It taught me how to speak comfortably to big and small groups and be able to speak with other leaders,” Matthew said. “I feel like the opinions of some people my age aren’t valued. VyStar was able to add that sort of credibility to my background and help me through challenges that could arise.”
Although he did not win the primary, the experience opened the door to a greater purpose.
Matthew returned to the Clay High School branch for the 2025-26 school year, this time as a teacher. He now shares the knowledge and leadership skills he gained as a student with the next generation.
“It’s like a home away from home,” Matthew said. “I was super involved as a student and now coming in as a teacher I’m super involved.”
Matthew’s classroom goes beyond academics. He focuses on teaching values that students can carry with them for life.
“I teach my students the value of leadership, the value of motivation and the value of being trustworthy.” Matthew said. “Since I am so close in age, I am able to explain different kinds of experiences that I went through so they can learn how to improve and be a great leader.”
Matthew’s influence can be felt throughout the halls of the school.
“Matthew has made, and is continuing to make, a positive difference inside our program,” said Michael Rathjen, Vice President of the High School Program.
While Matthew guides interns through vault operations and leadership lessons, he continues to pursue his own development. He is currently working on a master’s degree in public administration at the University of Central Florida.
“That’s my passion, that’s my love,” Matthew said.
Matthew’s journey is a powerful reminder that leadership has no age limit.