Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) has announced that alumnus Ryan Martin will serve as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2025. Born with spina bifida and having both legs amputated at the age of two, Martin overcame significant challenges through his passion for sports. His journey includes competing in co-ed wheelchair basketball during his time at SMSU, achieving a prestigious place in the 1,000-point club, and setting an all-time assist record. Following graduation, he played professionally in Europe while founding The Ryan Martin Foundation (RMF), which promotes athletic opportunities for people with disabilities. Martin's dedication extends to coaching adaptive sports teams and advocating for inclusivity in athletics.

A Journey of Resilience: Ryan Martin's Path to Inspiring Others

In the vibrant town of Marshall, Southwest Minnesota State University is set to host its 57th Commencement Ceremony on May 10. This occasion will feature Ryan Martin, a distinguished graduate from the Class of 2002, delivering the commencement speech. Hailing originally from Somers, Connecticut, Martin was born with spina bifida and underwent leg amputations early in life. Despite these challenges, he grew up in a supportive family of twelve siblings, several of whom also lived with disabilities.

Martin's life took a transformative turn when he discovered basketball. At SMSU, he not only excelled academically but also made history as part of the university's National Wheelchair Basketball Association championship team. During his senior year, he joined the elite 1,000-point club and established new records in assists. After graduating with a degree in Secondary Education and a minor in Sociology, Martin embarked on a professional basketball career in Europe, spanning ten seasons across Spain and France.

In 2006, while living in Spain, Martin founded the nonprofit organization, The Ryan Martin Foundation (RMF). Today, RMF operates globally, providing year-round junior programs in both Connecticut and Madrid, Spain. Its mission centers on empowering individuals with disabilities through sports training, mentorship, and education. Beyond this foundation, Martin serves as an advisor for the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNY), establishing the first-ever adaptive sports program within the institution.

In his personal endeavors, Martin remains actively involved in competitive sports, serving as vice-president of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association and consulting with the NCAA on inclusive sports initiatives. Recognized widely for his contributions, Martin received honors such as being named among Hartford Business Journal’s “40 under 40” and earning the title of U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee College Coach of the Year in 2022.

From a journalist's perspective, Ryan Martin's story exemplifies the power of perseverance and determination. His commitment to creating opportunities for others through sports inspires hope and action. As we listen to his words during the commencement ceremony, it becomes clear that breaking barriers is not just about individual success—it is about building pathways for future generations. Martin’s journey reminds us all that true strength lies in using our talents to uplift others, fostering communities where everyone can thrive.