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After 50 Years at Huston-Tillotson University, Professor of Sociology Dr. Rosalee R. Martin Retires – The Calling on Her Life Fulfilled

Austin, Texas – Huston-Tillotson University (HT) is proud to announce the retirement of Dr. Rosalee R. Martin, Professor of Sociology, after serving the University for 50 years. Dr. Martin’s impact on the University community and the field of sociology has been profound and will continue to be felt for years to come.

During her tenure at Huston-Tillotson University, Dr. Martin taught a wide range of courses, including Introduction to Sociology, Social Problems, Community, Social Welfare Policy, Marriage and Family, Human Sexuality, Interventive Methods in Social Work, Field Placement, Senior Seminar, Conflict Resolution, Addictions, and others. Her student-centered teaching approach has garnered numerous teaching excellence awards, including the prestigious 2003 Piper Professor Award and the 2020 Richard Hopkins Torch Award for Professional Services.

As Dr. Martin reflects on her teaching career, she shares, “What I love most about working  at HT are my students. When students come back and tell me what they did in their lives – I tell them, I am here for you.” Her proudest accomplishment is having students have enough confidence in her to share not only their academic situations but also their personal life situations. Students return to the HT campus and visit her office in the Jackson-Moody building, many years later knowing that she has made a difference in their lives.

During her 50 years, Dr. Martin served under five University Presidents: Dr. John Q. Taylor King Sr.; Dr. Joseph Turner McMillan Jr.; Dr. Larry L. Earvin; Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette; and Dr. Melva K. Wallace, the current President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University. Dr. Martin’s impact on the University community has been significant, as she has been an inspiration to both students and colleagues alike.

“Dr. Rosalee Martin’s teaching career has been a true testament to her dedication and commitment to education,” relays Dr. Melva K. Wallace, President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University. “Her unwavering commitment to her students has made a significant impact on their lives and her work will continue to inspire future generations of students and educators in the HBCU space.”

To honor and celebrate Dr. Martin’s retirement, Huston-Tillotson University is inviting the Huston-Tillotson University and Greater Austin communities to her retirement celebration, “50 Years at HT: The Calling on My Life Fulfilled” on Friday, April 28, from 2:00 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the Davage-Durden Student Union, located on the Huston-Tillotson University campus (900 Chicon Street, Austin, Texas 78702).

About Huston-Tillotson University

Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of learning in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. HT is an independent, church-related, historically black, four-year liberal arts institution located on a 23-acre tree-lined campus near downtown in East Austin. Huston-Tillotson University’s mission is to nurture a legacy of leadership and excellence in education, connecting knowledge, power, passion, and values. The University offers associate and master’s degrees in addition to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in more than 19 areas of study.

 

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