About the Martin Center

The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal is a North Carolina–based higher education policy organization dedicated to improving the quality, affordability, and accountability of colleges and universities.

We conduct research, publish policy briefs, and provide reform proposals focused on strengthening academic excellence and protecting taxpayers.

Areas of Expertise

  • Academic Quality & Student Success
  • Admissions, Standards, & Opportunity
  • Governance, Accountability, & Transparency
  • Affordability, Finance, & Public Stewardship
  • Campus Rights, Free Expression, & Institutional Culture
  • College Athletics Policy & Athlete Protections

5 Fast Facts 

  • Independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan higher education policy organization
  • North Carolina-based with national impact 
  • Publishes issue briefs, policy papers, and commentary
  • Frequently cited in state and national media 
  • Engages legislators, trustees, and policymakers on reform initiatives 

Leadership, Experts & Media Contact

Dr. Jenna A. Robinson (President)
Expertise: Accreditation, Academic Quality, Administrative Bloat, Spending
Available for: TV, radio, podcasts, and print interviews.

Shannon Watkins (Research and Policy Fellow)
Expertise: General Education, Teacher Preparation, Civics Education
Available for: TV, radio, podcasts, and print interviews.

Media Contact: Jovan Tripkovic (Communications Manager) 
Email: jtripkovic@jamesgmartin.center

Key Policy Issues

  1. General Education Reform: Strengthen core curricula and civic foundations
  2. Cost Efficiency: Reduce bloat and improve stewardship
  3. Classical liberal principles: Protect free speech, institutional neutrality, and equal opportunity
  4. Innovation: Remove barriers to new models and better outcomes
  5. Return on Investment: Ensure that higher education provides value to students, taxpayers, and society

Recent Research Highlights

Full research archive available HERE. 

Boilerplate (For Publication Use)

The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal is a nonprofit higher education policy organization based in North Carolina. The Center conducts research and promotes reforms to improve academic quality, institutional accountability, and affordability in higher education.

To access recent press releases and media coverage, please visit the Martin Center Newsroom.