Adale Martin

Dr. Adale Martin brings a wealth of experience in public service, education, and international policy to her candidacy for the Board of Directors of the World Affairs Council of Hampton Roads. Elected to the Norfolk Public School Board in 2018 and again in 2024, Dr. Martin served as Board Chair from 2020 to 2023, championing initiatives that improved student academic outcomes, expanded school security resources, and enhanced support for teachers and staff.

A lifelong advocate for education, Dr. Martin is herself a product of public education, from Pre-K through Ph.D. She earned her doctoral degree in public policy with a specialization in cross-sector collaboration and international security policy from Old Dominion University’s School of Public Service. She also holds a Master of Public Administration from Louisiana State University and a bachelor’s degree in International and French Studies from The Ohio State University. Additionally, she is an alumna of the University of Virginia’s Sorensen Political Leaders Program and serves as a class representative on its Alumni Council.

Dr. Martin's professional expertise spans adult education, curriculum development, and program management. She has managed clinical and scientific programs for the American Society of Clinical Oncology and led counter-terrorism training for first responders and SWAT teams at Louisiana State University’s National Center for Biomedical Research and Training.

Currently, Dr. Martin serves as the Executive Director of the Slover Library Foundation, where she oversees operations, development, community engagement, marketing, and communications. She is also a liaison to the Norfolk Public Library Board of Trustees and an active advocate and fundraiser for Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters as a member of the Magnolia Circle. Her community involvement extends to serving on the Boards of Lambert’s Point City Park and the Visit Norfolk Foundation, as well as being a member of the Garden Club of Norfolk.

Dr. Martin's passion for global engagement and cultural exchange aligns with her dedication to community service. Her international education background and professional experiences provide a unique perspective on fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

In her personal time, Dr. Martin enjoys outdoor activities and traveling with her two sons. Whether skiing, hiking, or boating, she embraces opportunities to connect with nature and explore new horizons.