Description
James David Martin cared deeply about students. As the administrator for the BAAS program for many years, he spent his afternoons advising students and listening to their stories. He took great delight in finding the right courses that complemented his students’ rich life experiences. David Martin never met a stranger—he reveled in sharing his most recent adventures, how to get an advanced degree, the importance of voting, or bragging about his grandchildren, daughters, and sons-in-law. He embraced civic life and lived a life of service to his family and his community. On any given weekend he could be found volunteering for Rotary International, community events, or tending to the community garden.
His commitment to others began at a young age growing up in the small college town of Tarkio, Missouri. He received his undergraduate degree at Tarkio College in that same small town. He went on to get his masters and PhD in Political Science at Southern Illinois University and moved to Wichita Falls in 1970 to take a position in the Political Science Department. It is his family’s wish to continue his legacy of supporting students in advancing their education. This scholarship will provide financial assistance to a student in the BAAS program. His family; wife of 55 years, two daughters, two son-in-laws and six grandchildren look forward to hearing about the recipients’ growth, and to personally connecting with them if possible.
They
also hope that through the experience of meeting scholarship recipients and
seeing these students grow, James David Martin’s grandchildren will be inspired
to learn about the importance of pursuing an education and the legacy of
giving.
Why are donations necessary?
By making a donation to the J. David Martin Scholarship, we can ensure that the scholarship thrives and positively influence the lives of BAAS students for generations to come.
Contributing to this scholarship is a part of preserving J. David Martin's memory and ensuring that his passion lives on through the success and achievements of the BAAS scholars who benefit from this meaningful scholarship.