President Saunders' Viewpoints, Op-Eds and Podcast Interviews

How do we ensure a climate of civility and inclusion on a university campus at a time when we seem to be so far apart as a nation? The subject means enough to us at UWF that we added it as a direction on our newly approved strategic plan.

Hometown universities bring many great things to a community, and the University of West Florida is no exception. You might be surprised to learn UWF’s contributions go far beyond educating students.

In 2017, UWF received a gift that perfectly reflects the hearts of two wonderful individuals – and the heart of the University of West Florida. Until now, the American Dream Scholarship Endowment donor has remained anonymous. Here is the rest of the story.

The COVID-19 pandemic taught us the importance of the flow of goods, and what can happen when industries around the world shut down. Now, more than ever, supply chain professionals are essential to help companies solve important logistics and supply chain problems.

Dr. Saunders talks with Anthony Taylor of SME Strategy about the importance of communicating your strategic plan properly.

Dr. Martha Saunders connects with Andrew Marotta on Education Leadership and Beyond. Andrew is an author and principal. They are both passionate about education and making an impact on the lives of students.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and an important time to shed light on the issue of mental health on college campuses. In my recent viewpoint with Pensacola News Journal, I discuss how UWF’s Counseling and Psychological Services has adapted to meet the evolving needs of #UWF students.

There’s a lot of talk these days in higher ed circles about an anticipated demographic cliff headed our way. Universities nationwide expect up to a 15% drop in freshman prospects due to the decline in birth rate in the 2008 recession that lasted for years after.

Dr. Martha Saunders connects with Deirdre Breakenridge on the Women Worldwide Show. She discusses what it’s like to be the president of a university, what sparks her passion each day and the hidden gem that is UWF.

Probably the most cited reason for getting a college education is that it prepares one for life and a good-paying job. While I would argue that preparation for life involves much, much more than job training, the importance of career preparation is certainly a key component of the ultimate value of a degree.

Indeed, this has been no ordinary year for UWF. Record enrollment, record gifts and national recognitions inspired us to reach for the remarkable.

In this season of Thanksgiving, I'm grateful for the generosity of so many people who have provided scholarships for our students. I can think of no more impactful gift than helping young people complete their educational goals.