Patricia A.R. Martinez has been named associate vice president for the Division of Residential and Hospitality Services at Michigan State University. She will begin her role in early August.

Martinez brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in housing, dining, student affairs and campus operations across a variety of higher education institutions. Most recently, she served as assistant vice president for student affairs and director of division operations at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she oversaw housing, dining, student centers, marketing, assessment and major capital initiatives. Her portfolio included management of a $35 million annual budget and more than two million square feet of facilities.

Throughout her career, Martinez has led large-scale projects that enhance the student experience and advance institutional priorities. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to equity, and expertise in strategic planning and assessment. In addition to her work at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she has held leadership roles at Northern Illinois University, Miami University and Ball State University.

A nationally recognized voice in the field, Martinez is a past president of the Association of College and University Housing Officers – International and has served as a mentor and external reviewer for institutions across the country and abroad.

“We are thrilled to welcome Patricia to Michigan State University,” said Vennie Gore, executive vice president for administration. “She brings a deep understanding of how the residential and hospitality experience can shape student success, and her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening the services we provide across campus.”

Martinez joins MSU at a time of transition, following a period of interim leadership for Residential and Hospitality Services. Gore also expressed his appreciation to Dr. Erin Carter for serving as interim associate vice president since January.

“Erin’s thoughtful guidance and steady leadership helped maintain continuity and support for our teams during this important period of change,” Gore said.

Residential and Hospitality Services is one of the largest divisions at MSU, serving thousands of students and guests each year through housing, culinary services, campus events and conferences.