Luis Abraham Martinez Jr. was named the 2025-2026 West Texas A&M (WT) Man of the Year. During the annual honors ceremony, one male and one female student are recognized for their overall impact on campus.
A finance international business major from Pampa, Texas, Martinez stands out for his academic success, leadership, and service to the community.
Martinez is a McNair Scholar and a consistent President’s and Dean’s list honoree. Outside the classroom, he has built a strong reputation through leadership programs, research focused on cultural and professional development and participation in study abroad opportunities.
Faculty and administrators have highlighted his work ethic and character. WT Engler College of Business Clinical Assistant Professor of Marketing Dr. Ashley Morgan said, “Luis’s leadership is both extensive and impactful. He represents the very best of the University, and I am confident he will continue to make significant contributions wherever his path leads.”
Martinez credits God with the success in his life. Pastor of Jubilee Apostolic Church, Nathan Carrington shared about his experience with Martinez. “Luis is so committed and is an awesome young, Godly man,” Carrington said.
Martinez expressed his gratitude for the award and reflected on his academic journey at WT. “I’m both honored and privileged that the University would recognize me as Man of the Year,” Martinez said. “Truly, it was an amazing accomplishment, but I am very grateful for the University and the committee for selecting me as somebody to represent them on behalf of our community, and also the college as well.”
Martinez shared how people on campus and in his personal life have made him the man he is today.
“First and foremost, I would say my mom is a true inspiration,” Martinez said. “Then I am also thankful for my entire family. They sacrificed a lot so that I could have a better life here in the States, and I am very thankful for that. Also very thankful for my stepdad, who came into our lives recently and has taken the role of fatherhood when we had no one, and I am very thankful for that. I am especially thankful for Jubilee Apostolic Church, my Pastor and Pastor’s wife, for mentoring me and loving me, and being an outlet to me when my family and friends were not here as well. Also, my home church in Pampa, Texas, Faith Tabernacle, for being an inspiration and helping me change the trajectory of my life by teaching me Biblical truth.”
Martinez is set to graduate this semester with his bachelor’s degree, marking the conclusion of a highly accomplished undergraduate career. As he prepares to step across the stage, Martinez hopes to leave a great legacy for his peers and professors.
“I want to be remembered by placing Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior, first and placing his kingdom first. Also, to love God and love people,” Martinez said.
Martinez leaves behind a legacy of dedication, serving as an example for future students of what it means to strive for excellence in both academics and campus life.
