Martin University appointed John Girton Jr. as its new executive vice president and chief of staff, according to an announcement made on July 18.
Martin University, Indiana’s only predominantly Black institution of higher education, was founded in 1977. The university’s mission is to provide an inclusive, supportive and collegiate environment that educates and develops a diverse workforce-ready student body while elevating the landscape and providing transformative opportunities and service to the communities it serves.
Girton, who previously served as the university’s vice president of marketing, communications and external relations, will be responsible for handling policy matters and institutional happenings on behalf of Dr. Sean L. Huddleston, president and CEO of Martin University.
In his new role, Girton will manage special projects that involve university officials and community leaders, as well as oversee office staff within the president/CEO’s areas of administration as needed. Huddleston expressed confidence in Girton’s capabilities, stating that he is a proven leader who has shown his deep commitment to Martin University’s success.
Girton’s experiences include serving as lead pastor of Indianapolis’ Christ Missionary Baptist Church and as an instructor and creative media services director for Tennessee State University, Nashville.
He has also worked in various areas of marketing, communications and instructional design at the University of Indianapolis, ITT Technical Institute and The First Amendment Center’s Freedom Forum for Vanderbilt University, Nashville. Girton was the first to teach the dual-curriculum program of journalism and telecommunications at Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana.
Huddleston spoke highly of the university’s new executive vice president.
“John Girton is a proven leader who has been effective, innovative, and deeply committed to Martin University’s success,” Huddleston said. “As EVP and Chief of Staff, he will play a pivotal role in the continued implementation and evaluation of our strategic plan, policies, and priorities. I look forward to all of the excellent contributions John will make in his expanded role.”
Contact multi-media staff writer Noral Parham III at (317)-762-7846 or via e-mail at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Twitter @NoralParham
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