BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Dr. Darrin Martin was appointed to serve as Bluefield State University’s newest president on Nov. 22. He’s a life long resident of the Bluefield area and a third generation graduate of BSU.
Dr. Martin had been serving as the school’s interim president since November of 2023 and beat out two other candidates to take over the position.
Dr. Martin says he’s excited he gets to lead his alma mater and build on recent momentum.
“I want to be a part of that. I think some growth and changes started in the previous administration in bringing back dorms, bringing back athletic teams, bringing back the cafeteria back to campus,” said Dr. Martin. “The demographics of the school and student population is growing. It seemed like a positive upbeat from where Bluefield State had been.”
Dr. Martin says he’s looking forward to collaborating with faculty at the school to help build and develop programs and curriculum at the university. He says he’s also hoping to strengthen relationships with local businesses and the City of Bluefield to help BSU grow.
“Bluefield State is a hidden gem. We just need to be vocal about all the things, all the opportunities that we have. I plan to be out and about across the region highlighting all the successes Bluefield State has,” said Dr. Martin.
Dr. Martin says being the university’s president was not a goal of his but the belief he has in the school made him want to take the position when he was given the chance.
Before being named BSU’s president, Dr. Martin was also Bluefield University’s associate professor of education, dean of academic support and director of graduate education studies, among other responsibilities.
The investiture ceremony celebrating Dr. Darrin Martin’s new role will be announced at a later date.
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