At Lehigh University, one name stands out in student leadership, inclusion, and engagement—Augie Martinez. As the Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Student Engagement, Augie is more than a campus figure. He is a trusted mentor, a respected leader, and a driving force behind the transformation of student life. His work represents a modern approach to higher education that prioritizes community, growth, and purpose.
His presence at Lehigh is more than administrative. He brings energy, innovation, and empathy to everything he does. From orientation programs to diversity initiatives, Martinez ensures that students are not only heard but empowered.
Shaping Student Experience With Purpose and Passion
Augie Martinez’s work centers on building a vibrant and inclusive student culture. His goal is clear—equip students to lead, serve, and thrive. He develops immersive experiences that foster cross-cultural understanding and meaningful community engagement.
His approach to student leadership is based on deep reflection and active service. He challenges students to think critically about their role in society and to use their voice for good. Through countless leadership retreats, late-night conversations, and campus-wide programs, Augie builds leaders who are not only competent but also compassionate.
Major Contributions to Campus Life
Augie has had a transformative impact at Lehigh. His fingerprints are on some of the university’s most influential initiatives.
- Lehigh After Dark: A student-led initiative offering vibrant, substance-free nightlife options.
- Student Senate Partnerships: Collaborating with student government to amplify voices and support equity policies.
- Diversity and Inclusion Efforts: Creating space for marginalized communities, supporting underrepresented students, and leading critical campus dialogues.
- Leadership Development: Facilitating retreats, workshops, and one-on-one mentorship that develop emotionally intelligent and socially aware leaders.
With over 100 student leaders mentored annually and more than 30 leadership programs facilitated each year, his measurable impact is undeniable.
A Leader Who Listens, Acts, and Uplifts
What makes Augie Martinez so effective is his authenticity. Students and colleagues describe him as genuine, innovative, and deeply empowering. He is not the kind of leader who stays behind a desk. He shows up at events, supports students in crisis, and celebrates their victories big and small.
His influence reaches across academic departments, student organizations, and campus traditions. And it is his ability to connect on a human level that builds deep trust within the Lehigh community.
A First-Generation Story That Inspires
Augie’s journey is rooted in personal experience. As a first-generation college graduate, he understands the unique barriers many students face. That understanding informs his leadership style—one that is grounded in empathy and action.
Before joining Lehigh, Martinez served in leadership roles at Rutgers University and The College of New Jersey. His academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a Master’s degree in Counseling and Student Affairs. His ongoing professional development reflects a commitment to excellence in higher education leadership.
Transforming the Definition of Leadership in Higher Education
Martinez doesn’t view student affairs as static. He reimagines it constantly. He believes leadership is not just about titles or positions—it is about service, voice, and community building.
Under his leadership, Lehigh’s orientation programs have shifted from simple introductions to transformative first-year experiences. Student engagement is not only measured by attendance, but by how deeply students feel seen and supported.
In a post-pandemic landscape, where student well-being and inclusion are more important than ever, Martinez has led with clarity and boldness.
Respected by Colleagues Nationwide
Augie’s influence goes beyond Lehigh. He has spoken at national conferences and is regularly invited to share his expertise on student engagement, diversity strategies, and equity-focused leadership. His dual ability to lead large-scale initiatives while having meaningful one-on-one conversations is widely admired.
He is known for fostering environments where students feel safe, heard, and inspired to contribute. That balance of vision and connection is rare—and it is what sets him apart.
A Mentor, Advocate, and Builder of Futures
Behind his titles and responsibilities, Augie Martinez is a mentor at heart. He sees potential in every student and does everything in his power to support it. Whether guiding a first-year student unsure of their path or advising student leaders on systemic change, his mentorship creates ripple effects far beyond campus.
His work is deeply rooted in the belief that education can change lives—but only when support systems are inclusive and intentional.
What Lies Ahead With Augie Martinez at Lehigh
The future under Martinez’s leadership is filled with promise. His next goals include expanding cross-cultural dialogues, deepening community partnerships, and creating more opportunities for leadership among marginalized student groups.
Expect to see Lehigh gain national recognition for its student initiatives and inclusive campus culture. Martinez’s vision is bold, but his execution is grounded in action and results.
Conclusion: The Heart of Leadership at Lehigh
Augie Martinez is not simply building programs. He is building people. His commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and authentic leadership makes him one of the most influential figures in higher education today.
Through every retreat, every mentorship conversation, and every policy he shapes, Martinez is redefining what it means to serve students. He reminds us that leadership is not about being in charge. It is about lifting others.
Lehigh University is better because of him. Its students are stronger, more confident, and more connected because of his guidance. In a field that demands both vision and heart, Augie Martinez delivers both. Every day.