Memphis, TN- For one Christian Brothers University alumnus Matthew Billings, the road to success was anything but straightforward. What began with injury and uncertainty turned into a story of perseverance, purpose, and lasting impact, all rooted in his time at CBU.
Arriving on campus in 2010, his college experience took an early hit when a severe injury disrupted his freshman year. For many, that setback might have closed the door on athletics. Instead, it became the beginning of something unexpected. By the spring of his sophomore year, he made the decision to walk on to the cross country team, stepping into a new challenge with determination.
That decision would prove life-changing.
Under the guidance of Coach Bill Hoffman, he found not only a mentor, but someone who could bring out his best. Hoffman's influence stretched far beyond workouts and race strategies. He instilled a love for running and a belief in pushing beyond perceived limits, lessons that stayed with him long after graduation.
"I wasn't the top runner on the team," he reflected, "but Coach Hoffman always found a way to get the most out of me."
Some of his most meaningful memories came during conference and regional meets, where competition was fierce and every second mattered. One rivalry, in particular, stood out. Race after race against a runner from the University of Alabama in Huntsville turned into a friendly but relentless battle. Over time, mutual respect grew as the two pushed each other to improve. By his senior year, he had gained the upper hand, winning each matchup, a testament to his growth and persistence.
Beyond the races, being a student-athlete gave him something deeper.
"It gave me guidance and confidence during a time that was difficult and overwhelming," he said. "Representing my team and CBU at every meet shaped who I am today."
After graduating in 2015, his journey took him to New York City, where he continued living out the values he developed at CBU. Through the Lasallian Volunteer Program, he spent two years teaching math and health at La Salle High School, giving back while staying connected to the Lasallian mission that had become so meaningful to him.
That connection led him to pursue a master's degree in engineering at Manhattan College, another Lasallian institution. There, his dedication to running reached new heights. Training alongside the cross country and track teams, he logged an intense 100 to 120 miles per week, preparing for some of the most demanding races in the world.
His hard work paid off with an impressive 2:42 finish at the Boston Marathon, a milestone that reflected years of discipline and resilience.
Today, he continues to train with a group in New York City while building his professional career as a civil engineer for the U.S. Army. Though his path has taken him far from Memphis, the foundation built at CBU remains central to who he is.
From overcoming injury to competing at a high level, from serving others to excelling in his career, his story is a powerful example of how CBU shapes more than just students. It shapes lives.
And for this alumnus, it all started with one decision to keep going.
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https://cbubucs.com/documents/2026/4/6/April-5.pdf
