In a pivotal decision announced in a special meeting, the Bluefield State University Board of Governors has appointed Dr. Darrin Martin, Ed.D., as the university’s 17th president. This appointment comes after a thorough nationwide search for candidates, with the Board unanimously endorsing Dr. Martin for his visionary leadership and steadfast dedication to academic excellence and student success.
Charlie Cole, chair of the Board of Governors, expressed excitement about Dr. Martin’s appointment, saying, “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.”
Martin Returns to His Alma Mater
Dr. Martin, a third-generation Bluefield State graduate, had served as interim president since November 2023. He shared his enthusiasm for the role: “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.”
Growing up in Bluefield, West Virginia, Dr. Martin has deep personal ties to the university and the surrounding area. “Coming back to Bluefield State feels like returning home,” he remarked. “This university has meant so much to my family, and I’m honored to help lead it into the future.”
Dr. Martin previously served as a member of the Board of Governors and held key positions at Bluefield University, including dean of academic support and director of graduate education. His extensive background also includes working as a school improvement specialist for the West Virginia Department of Education and as a high school administrator in Tazewell County, Virginia.
An alumnus of Bluefield State College, Dr. Martin earned an A.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology and a B.S. in Mathematics Teacher Education before furthering his studies at Radford University and Virginia Tech, where he received his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.
Dr. Martin resides in Bluefield, Virginia, with his wife, Dr. Serena Starcher, Superintendent of Raleigh County Schools, and their four children. He is an active elder at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
The university is planning an investiture ceremony in the near future to formally welcome Dr. Martin to his new role, providing an opportunity for the community to celebrate this significant leadership change.