Alumni Award Recipient

Award: 2010 Distinguished Service Award

Achievements: Ruth King Martin (65C) has a heart for service. As a mother, wife, volunteer and friend, she has embodied Martha Berry’s charge: “Not to be ministered unto, but to minister.” “I have known Ruth since 1990, and during that time, I have observed a true community treasure who selflessly gives of her time and energy to others,” exclaimed Dr. John Ratledge, professor of music at the University of Alabama. “I can think of no other who is such a champion of volunteerism and who sets such a standard of commitment and service for all of us.” Ruth’s commitment to others has manifested itself through service to her church, her community and her alma mater. She has been employed with various service-oriented organizations and agencies during her career, including the United Way of Rome and Floyd County, the Boys Club of Rome, the American Cancer Society and the City of Rome. She also served on the board of directors for the Rome Symphony Orchestra and the Rome Area Heritage Foundation and played a leadership role with the Council of Volunteer Administrators locally and statewide. In 1981, she was initiated into the P.E.O. Sisterhood (a philanthropic educational organization). She has served her local Chapter J and the Georgia State Chapter in most offices, including state president (2000). Ruth is an active member of Rome First United Methodist Church and has participated in two mission trips to Romania, where she helped to build a rural retreat for ministers and also worked with orphans in the surrounding cities. Service to Berry includes seven years on the Alumni Council and past membership in the Daughters of Berry, the Berry Woman’s Club and The Mount Berry Garden Club. Perhaps the greatest beneficiaries of Ruth’s heart for service are her children, Donna M. Glass (83A), Julie M. Elliott (89c) and Wesley A. Martin Jr., who said of her, “Mother always made sure we made it to dance and piano lessons; soccer, basketball and cheerleading practice; church, school and work; and a myriad of other activities. She set an example of the importance of personal growth through social involvement and in contributing to community improvement through dedication and commitment. “As adults we now realize the effort it took for her to maintain her household, employment and support her church and other volunteer causes with a timeless commitment. We are proud to call her our mom and proud of her commitment to her community.” Ruth is married to Wesley A. Martin (63C).