MATC president announces retirement

by Christopher D'Allen, Editor-in-chief

September 27, 2023

Dr. Martin speaks at the Create Gallery’s Hispanic Heritage Month exhibit’s opening, showcasing MATC alumni David Perez’s work.

After 35 years at MATC and 10 as the college’s president, Dr. Vicki J. Martin announced her retirement to students in an open letter. Her lengthy tenure at MATC will conclude on June 30, 2024. The college board will commence its search for a new president, with student input throughout the process. More details will be provided later in the school year.

Dr. Martin’s announcement included a list of what she described as some of the college’s greatest accomplishments during her tenure: MATC’s first full-ride scholarship program, Wisconsin’s first free tuition program, food pantries at all four campuses, increased diversity among staff, and the hiring of the college’s first Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer.

As MATC continues to adapt to the needs of the Greater Milwaukee Area, students have a unique opportunity to get involved in shaping the college’s direction and future. Dr. Martin’s lunchtime Café Chats allow students to meet with her informally and ask questions about any concerns they have regarding MATC. Here, students can learn how to approach administrators with their grievances and concerns, evaluate leadership styles, and form an idea of what to expect from potential candidates for the president’s office.

In 2022, Dr. Martin began hosting the open forum chats. When asked how the chats can help improve the school’s culture, Dr. Martin said, ‘Our shared success as a college relies on a comprehensive understanding of the wide range of views, experiences, concerns, and engagement felt by our diverse student population.’ To make their voices heard, it is up to students to ask questions, recommend solutions, and share their perspectives on their experiences here at MATC.

About the Contributor

Christopher D’Allen, Editor-in-Chief

My name is Christopher D'Allen and I am the Editor-in-Chief for the MATC Times, a student run paper dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in scholastic journalism. The MATC Times stands as the voice of our students and a bastion of free speech for the communiy we represent. I joined the staff in my first semester at MATC and obtained my current position at the start of Summer '23. Here I am a photography student and hold a BA in Political Science and Spanish & Latin American Studies with a minor in Democracy and Justice Studies. I have worked an Administrative Assistant, World Language Instructor, a Head Lifeguard and Resident Assistant, but have found that my passion lies in the arts. As a photographer, I challenge myself daily to find a new perspective, capture a fleeting scene and turn moments into memories. As we work to relaunch the MATC Times website and grow our staff, I want to make joining our team as positive a learning experience and beneficial a work experience as possible. I strongly believe in the power of collaboration and inclusivity. As an Editor, I actively encourage diverse perspectives. Each student's unique viewpoint enriches our storytelling and fosters a sense of unity within our community. I aim to bridge the gap between words and images, revealing the untold stories that shape our community.