Michael MatthewsLeadership Award

Since The Sequoia Project’s beginning, our mission, and the very fabric of how we operate, was shaped by incredible and inspiring leadership. This was exemplified by Michael Matthews, our inaugural chair of The Sequoia Project board of directors. Michael served a pivotal role, shepherding Sequoia through our formation, our very humble beginnings, and evolution to where we are today. We have become a thriving organization due to his stewardship and are eternally grateful to have had Michael as our trusted advisor with his steadfast and unbending support.

Michael’s leadership – his very way of leading – was unique, which has had an enduring impact on who we are. Michael’s leadership was an elegant balance of active listening, thoughtfulness, and openness to the perspectives of others. He also demonstrated an innate ability to translate ideas into innovative, and sometimes courageous, actions for Sequoia to step up and engage in an even more impactful and strategic way.

In honor of Michael’s service, Sequoia is establishing a new award in his name to recognize a leader who exemplifies Michael’s unique leadership style, as a quiet, strong leader who could lead without leaving others behind. As a tribute to his guiding force and in recognition of others, Sequoia wants to honor others who exemplify Michael’s inspiring leadership approach – bold, strategic, respectful, and kind.