Matthew Dietz

I am a civil rights attorney, law professor, and organizational leader with more than 25 years of experience advancing disability rights and inclusion across housing, healthcare, education, employment, and access to public systems. My work has focused on translating disability rights laws and litigating disability rights issues, into practical, enforceable outcomes that improve everyday access and community participation for people with disabilities. Throughout my career, I have led and managed complex advocacy efforts, supervised legal and interdisciplinary teams, and worked closely with public entities, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to address systemic barriers. My experience includes strategic litigation, policy development, institutional compliance, and program design, with a particular emphasis on effective communication, accessibility planning, community-based services, and preventing unnecessary segregation and institutionalization. I have also spent many years mentoring and training professionals—lawyers, students, and advocates—helping them develop strong judgment, ethical decision-making, and client-centered approaches to problem-solving. Across roles, I am known for building collaborative teams, navigating complex stakeholder environments, and focusing on solutions that are durable, inclusive, and grounded in real-world implementation.