Mathews helped to strengthen the college's finances as it doubled its annual budget, increased enrollment, added several facilities and expanded its graduate programs during his tenure.
Mathews, a graduate of UCLA who earned his advanced degrees in Business Administration from the University of Southern California, had spent thirteen years as a professor at Los Angeles Valley College.
Furthermore, he elevated the campus pastor, a position held by Gerald Swanson, to the cabinet level, in order to emphasize the importance of religion in his administration.
An indication of his business approach was an instruction of annual reports, outlining financial operations and budgets for the Regents, constituent groups, foundations, and corporations.
Mathews also formed the Committee for New Dimensions to reach into the business community of nearby Los Angeles and other civic, county, and industrial leaders.