Southern University is celebrating another extraordinary act of generosity from Mr. Irving Matthews, Vice Chairman of the Southern University System Foundation Board of Trustees and President and CEO of The Matthews Automotive Group. Matthews, a proud alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology, has given more than $2 million to the Southern University System — and his most recent gift is already transforming the golf program.
This spring, Mr. Matthews, accompanied by his son Jonathan, traveled from Orlando, Florida, to Baton Rouge to personally present a gift of two Sprinter vans to Southern University’s men’s and women’s golf teams. The new vehicles provide reliable transportation from campus to practices and tournaments, removing one of the biggest logistical challenges for the reestablished programs.
During his visit, Matthews encouraged the student-athletes to aim high: “I expect to see championships,” he told the teams.
Alfred E. Harrell, III, CEO of the Southern University System Foundation, reflected on Matthews’ impact:
“Irving’s exceptional investments in the University have spanned a wide range of academic, economic development, and athletic programming initiatives. We are deeply grateful to the Matthews family for their unwavering support.”
The impact of this most recent gift has already been felt by the student-athletes. “We no longer have to scramble to arrange rides to practice,” said men’s golfer Nyles Williams. “We can focus on what matters — improving our game and preparing to bring a championship back to Southern.”
Women’s golfer Salma Ibrahim — 2025 SWAC Individual Champion, SWAC Freshman of the Year, and SWAC Player of the Year — added, “This gift immediately elevated the program. Other teams are taking notice when Southern shows up.”
Head Coach Bobby Pope and Assistant Coach Phil Smith presented Mr. Matthews with an official team golf bag, team shirts, and golf balls in appreciation of his support.
This is not Matthews’ first major investment in Southern University. He previously gifted $1 million to expand programming and create the Southern University Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, which will soon be housed in a new 14,000-square-foot facility.
Southern University reintroduced men’s and women’s golf in 2023 after a 12-year hiatus. Between 1984 and 2004, the Jaguars captured 12 SWAC Championships, and the programs are once again poised to continue their legacy of excellence. Matthews’ gift is helping ensure that both teams have the resources to compete at the highest level.
2025 Southern University Golf Rosters
Men’s Team: Carter Evans, Charles Watts, Joshua Bradley, Isaiah Gold, Wyatt King, Jordan Williams, Quincy Leonard, Nyles Williams, Harold Rhodes
Women’s Team: Faith Ontune, Chloe Ajodha, Salma Ibrahim, Lauryn Leonard, Elizabeth Lenton