A Q&A with Alumni and Donors Larry G. and Fern M. Martin

Larry G. and Fern M. Martin
Geography Graduate from the Department of Geosciences, and U of A alumna

In this conversation, the Martins talk about the importance of perseverance, being married to the love of each other’s lives for 52 years, fond memories of their time at the U of A, and the joy they both have for paying it forward and supporting the next generation of students.

 Q: Can you tell us a little about your life, what you studied in college, and what your career has been like?

My wife Fern and I just celebrated our 52nd anniversary. Meeting her as a sophomore in 1965 was easily the best and most memorable event of our college years. Going to the university provided some of the most rewarding and fun years of our lives. We struggled financially, but both of us worked and we made it.

I majored in geography and wanted to be a college professor, but the Army got in the way during grad school. When I returned from the Army I decide to pursue my dream job and I obtained a position with a financial service firm in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

We moved to Tulsa in 1973 and we retired in 2014. During that time, we raised two children, Lance, who is now 48, and Leslie, 42. We have two grandchildren, Elise and Allison. Elise will be visiting the university this month. She is 17.

I was fortunate to be able to do what I loved for all those years. Even though it had nothing to do with my major, I had to have the degree to get the job.

Q: What are some of your favorite memories of your time at the college and why?

We often reminisce about events at the school when we were there: the 1964 football championship. When the stadium held around 30 thousand. Barnhill basketball arena, before Sutton – hardly anyone went. But Dickson Street is almost still the same.

 Q: Now that you’ve accomplished so much, what advice would you give to students?

My advice to students is to persevere. Find the job that makes you want to get up every morning.

I cannot imagine anything worse than working at a job, even it is in your major, that you dread going to work every day. Persevere and find what you enjoy. The college degree will help you get there.

 Q: What do you like to do during your time outside of work?

We have been retired for four years now and enjoy traveling as often as possible. I am an avid golfer and Fern enjoys gardening and the grandkids.

Both of us are grateful we are able to help support future students in their academic pursuits. It is a very gratifying and fulfilling feeling. It is good to give back.

Together, Larry and Fern have created the Larry G. and Fern M. Martin Endowed Scholarship to help support the education of a student who exhibits the perseverance, work ethic and grit to achieve their goals.

For more information about giving to or creating a scholarship fund, please contact Blake Rickman at brickman@uark.edu.