Augie Martinez is more than just an administrator at Lehigh University—he is a guiding force in student affairs. Currently serving as Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Student Engagement, he is celebrated for his inclusive leadership style and transformative impact. Martinez’s journey from being a first-generation college graduate to becoming a top leader in higher education reflects a profound commitment to personal growth, equity, and student success.

His leadership has been noted for inspiring confidence and cultivating a robust campus culture. Students and faculty alike recognize him as a driving force in shaping inclusive programs that champion student empowerment and strategic thinking. Whether working with the Student Senate or spearheading national diversity initiatives, Martinez has built a legacy rooted in genuine care and unshakable purpose.

Powering Student Success

At the heart of Augie Martinez’s work lies a mission to empower students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. He has led groundbreaking leadership development programs that prioritize individual growth, resilience, and cross-cultural collaboration. These efforts include immersive leadership retreats, targeted workshops, and strategic planning for inclusive student engagement.

Through mentorship and holistic student support systems, Martinez promotes student engagement that goes beyond events—it’s about connection. Under his guidance, students are not just navigating college; they’re becoming changemakers, community leaders, and confident professionals. His track record reveals that mentorship is not a duty—it’s a calling.

Contribution to Lehigh Athletics

Martinez has also left an indelible mark on Lehigh athletics. His contributions as a coach, mentor, and sports leader have elevated student-athletes’ potential. By promoting teamwork and discipline, he fosters a growth mindset and prepares athletes for lifelong success both on and off the field.

His advocacy for athletic mentoring and his deep understanding of youth development have empowered numerous student-athletes to pursue excellence with integrity. Whether coaching or collaborating on sports events, Martinez champions the physical and mental well-being of all students, further enriching Lehigh’s athletic culture.

Coaching and Mentorship

With over 100+ student leaders mentored annually, Augie Martinez’s coaching and mentorship programs stand as some of the most impactful at the university. His personal approach ensures that each student feels heard, valued, and empowered to lead with integrity.

His style blends inclusive leadership, professional development, and compassionate guidance. This creates a safe space for students to explore identity, confront challenges, and build character. From first-years to senior leaders, Martinez’s influence is both foundational and unforgettable.

Inclusive Excellence in Action

Diversity isn’t just a checkbox for Augie Martinez—it’s a mission. His efforts to promote inclusive excellence have reshaped how Lehigh approaches equity and inclusion. Martinez has launched university-wide programs supporting underrepresented student communities, driving policy changes that make student life more equitable.

He actively reimagines what belonging looks like in a post-pandemic leadership era. His hands-on work with student groups, institutional equity teams, and cross-departmental collaborations have made Lehigh a national model for inclusive student engagement.

Leadership Beyond Sports

Beyond the athletic fields, Martinez is a changemaker in every sense. His initiatives extend into community-driven projects, youth outreach programs, and campus-wide planning committees. He’s organized substance-free initiatives like Lehigh After Dark, promoting safe and vibrant social alternatives.

These initiatives are examples of leadership with purpose—Martinez believes in changing systems to serve students better. His ability to balance visionary thinking with actionable outcomes ensures that no idea stays theoretical. Every project reflects real student needs, fostering deep engagement and transformative change.

Making Lehigh Better Every Day

Martinez’s leadership is evident in the smallest acts and the largest campus events. Whether he’s crafting policies with the Student Senate or mentoring a struggling student one-on-one, his compassion is constant. His mission is to ensure that every Lehigh student feels they belong, matter, and can achieve their fullest potential.

Students consistently describe him as “genuine,” “empowering,” and “a role model.” This feedback reflects a broader truth—his transformative impact at Lehigh is rooted in daily, intentional action. He doesn’t just manage students; he believes in them.

Academic Roots and Career Journey

A proud first-generation college graduate, Augie Martinez holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Student Affairs. His academic and personal journey includes significant roles at Rutgers University and The College of New Jersey, where he helped shape future leaders and reform institutional strategies.

His foundation in communication and counseling fuels his current leadership approach. With ongoing professional development and active participation in national education forums, Martinez is continuously evolving to meet the needs of today’s diverse student body.

Augie’s Vision for Leadership

Martinez envisions leadership as a blend of courage, empathy, and collaboration. His model of inclusive leadership encourages students to lead with heart and intention. He emphasizes strategic thinking and resilience to prepare students for challenges both within and beyond the university.

His vision includes a stronger emphasis on student-led innovation, enhanced cross-cultural experiences, and deeper mentorship ties. In every initiative, he remains committed to developing students into not only excellent professionals—but also empathetic, socially responsible individuals.

Impact on the Lehigh Community

The Lehigh community has grown stronger under Martinez’s leadership. He has influenced everything from campus infrastructure planning to student policy design. His ability to listen and act has earned him immense trust across departments.

Through his work, student voices are amplified, concerns are addressed, and opportunities for growth are multiplied. From launching new orientation programs to creating inclusive social spaces, Martinez has fundamentally enriched the student experience.

Augie Martinez’s Legacy of Dedication

His influence doesn’t begin and end with a job description. Robin, who first profiled him, and Jermaine Orenthro Dowdy, a student inspired by his journey, both emphasize that Martinez’s commitment is more than professional—it’s personal.

From long nights helping students through crises to national presentations on leadership, his passion is evident in every action. His legacy is not just about numbers—it’s about lives changed, futures shaped, and hope restored.

Why Students Trust Him

Trust is earned through consistency, empathy, and action. Students trust Augie Martinez because he listens—really listens. His open-door policy, candid feedback, and presence at student events make him more than a leader; he’s an ally.

His mentorship goes beyond academic guidance. He uplifts students’ self-worth, confidence, and identity. Whether through mentoring young athletes or guiding future change-makers, Martinez cultivates a sense of belonging that fuels student empowerment.

Recognized by Peers and Professionals

Martinez’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s been invited to speak at national education summits, been featured on platforms like Bestlucktime.com, and consistently receives praise from higher education peers.

Colleagues describe him as a respected leader and visionary strategist. His ability to balance macro-level planning with one-on-one mentoring demonstrates rare leadership depth. Institutions across the country look to his work as a benchmark in higher education innovation.

Behind the Scenes: Personal Life and Advocacy

Off-campus, Martinez is a devoted father, community advocate, and champion for education equity. His belief that the right support at the right time can change a life drives much of his advocacy work.

Whether volunteering with local nonprofits or serving on advisory boards, he embodies servant leadership. His personal story, rich with trials and triumphs, fuels his commitment to shaping a better future—one student at a time.

The Future with Augie Martinez at Lehigh

The future is bright with Augie Martinez continuing to lead at Lehigh. Plans include expanding cross-cultural dialogue, enhancing student mentorship, and gaining broader national recognition for Lehigh’s student initiatives.

His roadmap is clear: continue pushing boundaries, breaking silos, and building bridges. With his guidance, Lehigh will not only meet today’s challenges but lead the way into tomorrow’s educational frontier.

FAQs

Who is Augie Martinez Lehigh?
He is the Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Student Engagement at Lehigh University, known for championing inclusive leadership and student empowerment.

What programs has he led at Lehigh?
He has led orientation programs, leadership retreats, diversity initiatives, and vibrant social alternatives like Lehigh After Dark.

What is his educational background?
Martinez holds degrees in Communications and Counseling, and previously held roles at Rutgers University and The College of New Jersey.

Why is he respected in higher education?
He is admired for building strong teams, fostering student growth, and promoting equity and inclusion across all campus functions.

How has he impacted students?
Through coaching, mentoring, and program leadership, Martinez has inspired hundreds to lead with purpose and resilience.

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