Elected to the Board: July 1, 2018
Term Expires:  December 31, 2026
Ward 1

Dr. Adale M. Martin has a BA in French and International Studies from The Ohio State University, a master’s degree in Public Administration from Louisiana State University and a PhD in Public Policy from Old Dominion University with a specialization in collaboration, social capital, and international security policy areas.

She has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector with a focus on professional development and training. She started her career at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), in the Education, Science, and Publications Department, where she coordinated continuing medical education training and scientific programs for oncologists and researchers worldwide. As the Assistant Manager of Operations and Planning at the LSU, National Center for Biomedical Research & Training, Academy of Counter-terrorist Education, she managed training and curriculum development for Emergency Responders and SWAT teams across the U.S. and its territories. Currently, Dr. Martin is the Executive Director of the Slover Library Foundation, where she supports community engagement, civic learning, and advancing technology resources at Slover Library through programming and development.

Dr. Martin brings first-hand knowledge of the school system to the table as a mother of two students enrolled in Norfolk Public Schools. Adale’s husband, Roy, and their oldest son were each born with profound hearing loss. Ensuring access to resources for children with special needs is a key concern. Adale is an advocate for children living with hearing impairment and provides guidance to parents/guardians so that they know their rights and understand the processes.

Dr. Martin serves on the Norfolk Commission of Life-long Learning and is a liaison to the Norfolk Public Library Board of Trustees. She previously served on the Norfolk Jury Commission and the Naval Station Norfolk Centennial Commission. As a Commissioner on the Norfolk Poverty Reduction Committee, she served on the Youth Education and Career Pathways committee. She is an advocate and fundraiser in support of CHKD and has volunteered to advance membership, communications, and legislation to improve access to quality pediatric care. She is a Past President of the Magnolia Circle, and the Founder and Chairman of the annual Magnolia Circle Dragon Boat Race Fundraiser.