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Martha Saunders

  • President Emeritus

Biography

Dr. Martha Saunders, President Emeritus of the University of West Florida, has built a distinguished 40-year career as an academic leader and award-winning scholar in public relations and crisis communication. She has held senior roles at universities in Florida, Georgia, Wisconsin, and Mississippi, earning two Silver Anvils from the Public Relations Society of America and national recognition for her expertise.

As UWF’s sixth president, Saunders expanded the university’s reach and reputation through record enrollment, record fundraising, and prestigious national rankings. Her entrepreneurial vision and innovative solutions positioned UWF as a leader in higher education across the state and beyond.

A prominent voice in both the academy and her community, Saunders has been featured in CEO Magazine and is widely sought after for her insights on leadership and change. Her legacy is one of growth, innovation, and service — propelling higher education into the future while strengthening the Pensacola region she proudly calls home.