Drake University President Marty Martin was inducted into the University of Kentucky’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni. Martin, along with 19 other inductees, was honored by his alma mater during a ceremony on Sept. 12 for his exceptional contributions to the Commonwealth, the nation, and the world. Held every five years, the Hall of Distinguished Alumni is the highest honor the UK Alumni Association can bestow.
Martin received his bachelor’s degree and a J.D. from the University of Kentucky. He began his legal career as a Judge Advocate General Officer in the United States Air Force, serving on active duty from 1987 to 1995 and in the reserves until retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 2007. Following his active-duty service, Martin earned an LL.M. degree from Yale Law School in 1996 and then began his academic career at the University of Illinois College of Law. Thereafter, Martin served as a professor of law and associate dean of academic affairs at Texas Wesleyan University School of Law for eight years. He then served 10 years at Gonzaga as dean of Gonzaga University School of Law and later as the university’s executive vice president before ultimately joining Drake University in 2015 as its 13th president.
“President Martin’s work and achievements at Drake University are a clear indication of why he was named a recipient of this prestigious award,” said Paul Schickler, chair of Drake University’s Board of Trustees. “He has not only brought distinction to the University of Kentucky through his professional achievements but has also established a legacy of transformative change across the Drake community.”
President Martin’s tenure at Drake has been marked by a deep commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. His work and achievements can be defined by three key areas of focus that align with the spirit of the Distinguished Alumni award: transforming lives and strengthening communities, increasing access and affordability, and securing the University’s future.
Drake’s Achievements Under President Martin’s Leadership
- Transforming Lives and Strengthening Communities: President Martin led Drake’s efforts to become a key institution in the Des Moines community, spearheading projects such as the opening of the Broadlawns Community Clinic, Gregory and Suzie Burt Boys & Girls Club, John Dee Bright College, Drake Business Clinic for underrepresented entrepreneurs, and Mediacom Stadium. He also played an integral role in the revitalization of University Avenue.
- Increasing Access and Affordability: President Martin implemented the Drake Tuition Guarantee, which fixes tuition for undergraduate students for four years. He also created two full-tuition coverage programs for eligible Iowa students: the Bulldog Promise and the Bright College Pathway.
- Securing a Bright Future: He led the University’s largest comprehensive campaign, The Ones: Drake’s Campaign for the Brave and Bold, which exceeded its goal by raising more than $265 million.
To read more about the Hall of Distinguished Alumni, including a full list of this year’s 20 inductees, visit www.ukalumni.net/HODA.