BLUEFIELD, WV – The Bluefield State University Board of Governors in a special meeting on Thursday, November 21, 2024, announced the selection of Dr. Darrin Martin, Ed.D., as the university’s 17th president.

Folllowing an extensive nationwide search, the Board unanimously voted for Dr. Martin citing his visionary leadership, commitment to academic excellnece, and dedication to fostering student success.

“On behalf of the Board of Governors, I am throlled to welcome home a third-generation graduate to lead Bluefield State University,” said Charlie Cole, Chair of Board of Governors. “While serving as Interim President, Dr. Martin has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing educational opportunities and building strong partnerships that benefit students, faculty, and the broader community. We are confident he will be an outstanding leader for Bluefield State,” added Cole.

Prior to this appointment as interim president, Dr. Martin was a member of the Bluefield State University Board of Governors having been appointed by Gov. Jim Justice.

“I am deeply honored to lead this distinguished institution which has given so much opportunity to me and others. Bluefield State is uniquely positioned to expand opportunities for its students and strengthen its impact in the region. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and the community to build on the university’s successes,” said Dr. Darrin Martin, expressing excitement about joining Bluefield State University as its premanent president.

Martin added he is also focused on strengthening the university’s ties with the local community saying, “Bluefield State has always been an important part of this region, and we will continue working with local organizations and businesses to create opportunities that benefit our students and the wider community.”

“We commend the Board of Governors for their confidence in selecting Dr. Darrin Martin as the permanent and 17th president of Bluefield State University. A leader who will continue to demonstrate poise, commitment, and dedication to advancing BSU’s commitment and mission. As an alumnus, Dr. Martin has already proven his steadfastness in taking on the challenge. We at HCF eagerly anticipate this era of leadership under Dr. Martin and pledge our unwavering support. We extend our congratulations and wish him immense success,” said HCF Founder, President and CEO Demetrius Johnson, Jr.

Before Dr. Martin’s service to Bluefield State University, Dr. Martin served in a variety of roles at Bluefield University including, Dean of Academic Support; Director of Graduate Education; and Interim Dean of the College of Education & Social Sciences.

Dr. Martin also served as a School Improvement Specialist for the West Virginia Department of Eduction; Director of Teacher Education, for Concord University; and was a High School level Administrator with Tazewell County Public Schools in Virginia.

Dr. Martin is a graduate of then Bluefield State College, earning both a A.S. In Mechanical Engineering Technology as well as a B.S. in Mathematics Teacher Education. He continued his education at Radford University, where he received a M.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration. In 2000, Dr. Martin was awarded an Ed.D. In Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Virginia Tech University.

The university stated that an investiture ceremony will be planned for the near future, where the university community and the public will have an opportunity to formally welcome Dr. Martin.

Founded in 1895 as an HBCU, Bluefield State University has a rich history of providing quality education to students in West Virginia and beyond. Dr. Martin’s appointment represents bridge between the university’s storied past and its promising future.

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