2024 Graduate of the Last Decade Award

Born and raised in the close-knit community of Fairborn, Matt Cline pursued higher education at Wright State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing in 2018.

During his time at Wright State, he turned personal adversity into a powerful force for good. Drawing from his own experiences of being picked on as a child due to his shoes, he founded the nonprofit organization Just a Pair of Shoes. The organization, fueled by his empathy, provides name-brand shoes to children in need in the Dayton area, ensuring they experience the joy and confidence that comes with owning quality footwear.

As the director of Just a Pair of Shoes, Cline has led the organization with dedication and purpose. Through his efforts, the nonprofit has distributed over 1,400 shoes to children, making a significant impact on their lives.

Notably, Just a Pair of Shoes operates without administrative costs, relying on passionate volunteers to maximize the impact of every donation. His business acumen and ability to secure great deals enable Just a Pair of Shoes to acquire name-brand shoes at favorable prices, further stretching the organization’s reach.

Matt Cline ’18

In addition to his nonprofit work, Cline is the founder and owner of Success Incline, a for-profit company specializing in selling shoes online.

Cline’s commitment to community extends beyond Just a Pair of Shoes. He serves as a board member of Family Promise of Greene County and the Fairborn Football Foundation and mentors aspiring marketers through the Wright State Emerging Marketing Leaders Program. By giving back to the programs that impacted him, he contributes to the growth and success of the community that shaped him.

In 2017, Cline met his future wife, Kathryn Cline, at Wright State. Their journey has now expanded, with the couple eagerly anticipating the arrival of their baby boy in the spring of 2024. In his free time, Matt indulges in his love for saltwater fishing, running and hiking with his dogs and wife, finding a balance between his professional, philanthropic and personal pursuits.