CWU Alumnus Named American College Counseling Association Counselor of the Year

The American College Counseling Association has named Earl Martin as ACCA’s “Counselor of the Year.” Martin is a Central Washington University Department of Psychology alumnus, earning bachelor of arts degree in psychology in 1986; a bachelor of science degree in pedagogical studies in 1989, summa cum laude; and a master of science degree in counseling psychology in 1990. He later earned an EdD in education leadership and policy studies at the University of Washington in 2004.

The national award recognizes a college counselor who has made a significant impact on the national, state or local level.

"The professional training I received from my professors at Central Washington University was outstanding,” said Martin. “It's a privilege to work in a trusted position to help others experiencing challenging times in their complex lives.“

Martin, who received his associate’s degree at Highline Community College, continued, “The community college system is a great American invention in support of opportunity and hope for many. My wish is to continue to advocate for humane and effective support for everyone, but particularly for those who have less power."

A tenured faculty member who has worked at Everett Community College since 1990, Martin was honored for his statewide leadership and longtime advocacy for counseling services at community and technical colleges.

“His service to our students is his primary focus and, as his colleague, I can attest that our students consistently rate his counseling as excellent,” wrote EvCC Counselor Deanna Skinner in Martin’s award nomination.

Martin of Everett received the ACCA’s highest award at their national conference in February.

In his 27 years at EvCC, Martin received the college’s Diversity Award twice, the EvCC President’s Recognition Award, and was named Faculty Member of the Year and Advisor of the Year. He has also received a Robert G. Porter Scholars Award from the American Federation of Teachers and the Seth Dawson Award for community leadership. He also was elected to two terms as president of the Washington Community and Technical College Counselors Association.

A Washington native, Martin calls Renton his “boyhood hometown” and is a 1982 graduate of Renton High School.

Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu
April 13, 2017