Martin Honored With Community Service Award

In August, Billy Ray Martin will have been working on Carson-Newman's campus for twenty one years.Carson-Newman proudly awarded Martin with the College Community Service Award at the spring Honors Convocation. Not only does Billy serve this school, but he is a servant in his own church as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. He is also a loving husband, married for twenty seven years with two sons.

According to Martin, his favorite part of working at Carson-Newman is being around the people. Making friends and keeping those friends are what Martin says is most important.

"Several people have come and gone, but I have made some important friendships along the way, that's all that matters," Martin said.

Joking around with his friends is one of this favorite pasttimes.

"I love playing tricks on people, especially Robbie. Everyday I try to make things interesting and I aggravate him all the time," Martin said.

After working for twenty one years, Martin still tries to keep a smile on his face everyday, along with a willing attitude.

"Billy Ray is a joyful guy. He brightens everyone's day with his humor and comments," said Ondes Webster, director of physical plant and construction manager. "His duties on campus are working on our sports fields, mowing, marking them for games, etc. He and partner Robbie also deliver the campus's mail. One of his famous comments for humor is when asked, for instance: "Bill, how long will it take you to mark off the softball field today?" "Well if I do it myself, two hours, and if Robbie helps me around three or four." That comment is always followed by laughs from everyone around.