Liz Martin, a member of the Lincoln County School Board since 2010, was named
the 2023 Oregon School Board Member of the Year at the Oregon School Boards Association’s 77th Annual Convention in Portland on November 11. “Liz Martin is a great example of a school board member who has dedicated decades to improving her
community and creating opportunities for young people,” said OSBA Executive Director Jim Green. Nominees for the statewide award were considered for their advocacy efforts, leadership and support for student achievement.
Martin has served on the Lincoln County School District Board of Directors for 13 years where she is currently vice chair after holding the chair position for three years. During her tenure on the board, Liz oversaw the hiring of three superintendents, was instrumental in the creation of the district strategic plan and equity policy, and has been a key player in acquiring beneficial partnerships and funding for Lincoln County School District. In her acceptance speech, Martin said she was surprised and honored to receive the award. “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for recognizing my efforts to make our community a better place,” Martin
said. “To be acknowledged for doing something I love is a tremendous honor. The more I have given, the more I have gained, but my true measure of success lies in the impact on the people around me. That is the real accolade.”
Former Superintendent Dr. Karen Gray, who retired earlier this year, said Martin was always a positive influence but challenged her with hard questions. “She is the most supportive, upbeat, hard-working, loving board member I’ve ever worked with,” Gray said. “It’s every superintendent’s dream to have someone like Liz to work with.” Martin, is a 3rd generation Lincoln County resident who has dedicated her life to public service. In addition to her work on the LCSD Board of Directors, she is vice chair of the Depoe Bay Harbor Commission, and former chair and current advisory board member of Neighbors For Kids, an after-school
day care and school. She lives in Depoe Bay and has two children and one grandson.
