Luminaries

R. J. Martin

Riago Joseph Martin was known for his tireless work in education and for his community. In his lifetime he was named Black Georgian of the Year, recognized by the NAACP as one of the 100 Men of Progress, and upon his death the Georgia state legislature passed a resolution applauding his service to the state and the nation.

Martin was a bridge builder. In Georgia, as vice chairman of the Bibb County school board, he rendered invaluable assistance in the integration of the Bibb County schools. He participated in the White House Conference on International Cooperation in 1965, and served as ATA president in 1966, the year in which he signed the historic merger agreement between ATA and NEA. He went on to serve on the board of directors of the NEA.