Interim President named for Bluefield State University

Nov. 21—BLUEFIELD — The Board of Governors of Bluefield State University announced Monday the appointment of alumnus Dr. Darrin Martin as its interim president following the resignation of Dr. Robin Capehart.

Martin will serve as interim president while a search is undertaken for the next president of the university. The announcement was made Monday during a special meeting of the board.

Martin's appointment is especially meaningful because he, his mother, and his grandmother are also Bluefield State graduates, university officials said.

"I am passionate about Bluefield State and am committed to the next chapters of the university," Martin said.

"The Board of Governors is excited to have a three-generation Bluefield State graduate leading this institution to greater things," said Board Chair Charlie Cole.

Jack Sheffler, the faculty representative on the board, extended his best wishes to Martin.

"The faculty would like to congratulate Dr. Darrin Martin on his appointment to the position of interim president," he said.

Martin is a graduate of Bluefield State College, earning 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.

Martin currently serves Bluefield University as Associate Professor of Education, Dean of Academic Support and ACE, Director of Graduate Education Studies, Moving the Needle Campus Project Manager and Title IX Deputy. Dr. Martin has also worked as an assistant principal and mathematics teacher in Tazewell County Schools, an Associate Professor Director of Teacher Education at Concord University, a School Improvement Specialist with the W. Va. Department of Education and as an educational consultant.

— Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com

Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com