UW Veterans Services Center Director Receives UW Trustees’ Award of Merit

Marty Martinez, who came to the University of Wyoming in 2012 following a 30-year military career and spearheaded the development of UW’s Marna M. Kuehne Foundation Veterans Services Center (VSC), has been honored with the UW Board of Trustees’ Award of Merit.

The award was established in 1984 by the Board of Trustees to recognize individuals and groups who have rendered meritorious service or made exemplary contributions to UW, with consistent and persistent performance above and beyond the norm and that of one’s peers; achievement attaining state, regional or national acclamation; exceptional classroom or laboratory work furthering the academic mission of the university; and dedicated support to students, faculty, staff or the mission of UW.

Additionally, the award recognizes outstanding service to UW or its constituents through the exemplary performance of a specific duty or obligation; a superior level of performance over a period of time; effective representation of student, faculty, staff or alumni; or exceptional contributions to the growth and well-being of the institution.

“In every endeavor, Marty embodies the values of service, excellence and commitment to community,” says Erik Kahl, UW’s executive director of student life and the director of the Wyoming Union, where the VSC is located. “His contributions have not only enriched the lives of countless student veterans, but also have elevated the University of Wyoming’s reputation as a leader in veteran support throughout higher learning institutions in the state, the region and across the country.”

Martinez announced that he is retiring as the VSC director during last week’s Board of Trustees meeting, where the board voted unanimously to honor him with the Trustees’ Award of Merit.

“Marty’s leadership is not confined to formal roles or titles -- it is deeply embedded in every interaction he has within the University of Wyoming community. He leads by example, fostering an environment where students, faculty and staff feel seen, heard and empowered,” says Nycole Courtney, UW’s interim vice president for student affairs. “Whether mentoring a student through a challenging transition, collaborating with colleagues to improve veteran services or simply offering a compassionate ear, Marty’s presence consistently uplifts those around him. His work reflects a rare blend of strategic vision and personal integrity, making him not only a trusted leader, but also a deeply respected member of our university family.”

Under Martinez’s guidance, the VSC has evolved from a modest initiative in Knight Hall to a 2,000-square-foot facility on the third floor of the Wyoming Union, established in 2018 through private donations. The center serves as a hub for nearly 700 military-connected students, with services including academic courses; tutoring; mental and physical wellness programs; and community integration activities. Annually, more than 60 events take place at and through the center.

He has led the implementation of six academic courses tailored to veterans, along with more scholarships and community partnerships to help veteran students succeed. The VSC has been ranked in the top 2 percent of colleges and universities by Military Advanced Education and Transition Magazine.

“Much of this growth has been made possible through private support, rooted in Marty’s genuine and trusting relationships with donors,” says John Stark, president and CEO of the UW Foundation. “Millions of dollars have been directed to the Veterans Services Center under his guidance, with the vast majority directly benefiting UW students. Beyond the financial impact, Marty has left a lasting imprint on the lives of countless students who have benefited from his counsel, support and encouragement.”

During his pre-UW career with the U.S. Army, Martinez achieved the rank of chief warrant officer 2.