10/06/2026
Remembering Rev. Dr. Carl E. Martin, 1938–2026
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Carl, as he was known to us on campus. He served as president of Southwestern College from 1988 to 1998. He died on October 3 in Topeka, Kansas, at the age of 87.
Carl's connection to Southwestern spanned decades and took many forms. A graduate of the college (Class of 1960), he returned as Chaplain and Assistant Professor of Religion from 1967 to 1974, served as a Trustee for eight years, and then led the institution as president for a decade. In 1992, Southwestern awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in Education Administration and inducted him into the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame in 2009.
In recent years, he remained a devoted supporter, making the trip from his home just up the street at Cumbernauld to joyfully join in the observation of our campus traditions and events – almost daily. He attended countless performances and competitions, always celebrating the effort and growth of our Moundbuilders. He also cared deeply for our faculty and staff, offering gentle affirmation and encouragement.
Beyond Southwestern, Carl was a United Methodist pastor, District Superintendent of the Winfield UMC District, interim President and CEO of United Methodist Youthville, a Rotarian, and a board member of the Wichita Symphony.
In death, he is reunited with his sweet Mary Lou. They celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary just weeks before Mary Lou's passing in 2015. Since then, Carl remained dedicated to celebrating her life and art.
He is survived by his son Andrew (Janelle), his daughter Megann (Dale), four grandchildren, and his sister, Leora.
Carl's service shaped generations of students, and his legacy continues to be felt across our campus and community.
A Moment of Silence for Carl: Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 11:28 a.m.
All faculty, staff, students, and friends of the college are invited to chapel at 11:00 a.m. in The Grove, where we will observe the moment of silence together. If you can't join us, we invite you to pause wherever you are to reflect on Carl's life and contributions.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
Please keep the Martin family in your thoughts and prayers. To share a memory or send a note to the family, please direct it to President Frombgen's office, and we will pass it along. We also look forward to remembrances during Homecoming Festivities Oct. 16-17. Carl loved Homecoming at his Alma Mater.
With gratitude for his life and service –
Carl was truly a Builder. 💜
Read Carl’s full obituary, provided by his family, here: https://sckans.edu/other/general/news/view/2585/?remembering-rev.-dr.-carl-martin
