Andrew Martinez (’23)
Business Administration & Sociology
Austin, Texas
Andrew Martinez (鈥23), is a proud first-generation college graduate whose energy, heart, and voice are helping shape the future of education policy. Andrew came to Loras from Arizona after a chance meeting at a college fair. 鈥淣o one was talking to Loras,鈥 he remembers. 鈥淏ut my favorite color is purple, so I decided to talk to the admission representative, Robbie Stran (鈥02).鈥 That conversation sparked interest from Loras, and he soon flew to Dubuque during a polar vortex to experience campus firsthand. 鈥淚 got the full Iowa experience,鈥 he laughs. He received the National Alumni Board Scholarship and committed to Loras that night.
At Loras, Andrew double majored in Business Administration and Sociology and minored in Criminal Justice. He also immersed himself in campus life as a Student Ambassador, Peer Advisor, and member of the Honors Program. But it was his involvement in student leadership, especially with Loras LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens), that truly shaped his path. He began as a member and eventually became council president, helping bring students to the LULAC national conference in Washington, D.C. 鈥淣o one knew who Loras was鈥攂ut we made sure they knew by the time we left.鈥
Andrew credits mentors like Dr. Sergio Perez (鈥13) and Dr. Art Sunleaf with helping guide and empower him during his journey. 鈥淪ergio showed me what was possible, he looked like me and was doing big things. I wanted to be just like him.鈥 Art, he says, saw him at his best and worst, especially during the grad school process. 鈥淗e taught me things I didn鈥檛 even know I needed to learn. I love that man so much.鈥
His passion for working with students led him to pursue his Master鈥檚 in Student Affairs in Higher Education at Texas State University, a Hispanic-Serving Institution. While there, he served as a graduate residence director and brought the values and lessons of Loras Residence Life with him. But his interests also expanded into policy, and today, Andrew serves as a Legislative Aide in the Texas State Senate, focusing on education and economic development. 鈥淚鈥檝e always wanted to work in government. I want to serve all students, not just a small population.鈥
Andrew notes it鈥檚 important to stay connected to your roots. 鈥淟oras gave us the chance to grow, and now it’s our turn to give back. Whether it’s time, mentorship, or simply showing up, every little bit matters. You never know how your presence can shape someone else鈥檚 journey, just like others did for me.鈥
Tune in to this month鈥檚 Duhawk Dozen podcast to hear more about Andrew鈥檚 journey and his experiences at Loras. Congratulations, Andrew!
