Her career has brought her to one of Arkansas State University’s highest student-focused leadership roles, but Martha Spack’s influence extends far beyond her title as vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of students.

 Spack grew up in a traditional southern household with two parents who were both educators. She has two brothers and said her upbringing was rooted in strong family values.

“It was wonderful,” Spack said. “I had really strict parents, and I think that defined the things I got to do and did not get to do. But the lessons I learned about character, respecting other people, working hard and fulfilling your dreams are still foundational principles that guide my path both personally and professionally.”

As vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of Students at A- State, Spack continues to build a legacy centered on student success. She said she envisions a vibrant campus life with diverse engagement opportunities that emphasize both personal and academic growth.

“The most life-changing moment in my career was earning my doctorate,” Spack said. “I did not fully understand what that meant at the time.”

Spack said while she has many fond memories as a student at Arkansas State, she was not heavily involved in campus organizations or events. She said she defines success as more than grades or involvement, emphasizing that it depends on what students invest in their education.

“If a student feels like they are developing personally and academically, then that is success,” Spack said. “That looks different for everybody. Some students are very involved outside the classroom, and others come to class, soak up the information and then leave to work or take care of other responsibilities. Neither pathway is better than the other.”

Outside of work, Spack said she enjoys spending time with her husband and her 15-year-old son, Joseph. She said she  also enjoys reading novels on her Kindle and traveling with her family.

Spack’s influence extends beyond her family to those who work alongside her.

Katey Provence, director of marketing and communications for student affairs, said Spack’s leadership style consists of a balance between work and personal life while maintaining high expectations.

During her 14 years working with Spack, Provence said she has watched her supervisor grow from a Greek life advisor into a vice chancellor.

“She stands apart because students are always at the core of her decision-making,” Provence said. “While others may focus on finances or public perception, she always keeps students first. From day one, she has encouraged us to do the same.”

Provence said Spack consistently supports her staff, encouraging them to prioritize their well-being and leading by example.

“She shows up,” Provence said. “She wants to be there and experience events with students instead of just hearing about them afterward. That makes a big difference.”

Provence said  Spack advocates for initiatives that directly benefit students, including the establishment of a campus food pantry and the Red Wolf Center.

“Her leadership trickles down through our departments and directly impacts students,” Provence said. “That is the legacy she is leaving, empowering people to support students.”

Haley Cummings, associate director of new student and family programs, said Spack is very calm, level-headed, and welcoming as a leader.

“She chooses to be where the students are,” Cummings said. “Her office placement, her availability, everything she does has a purpose. At the heart of her leadership is doing what is best for students.”

Cummings said Spack encourages professional growth among her staff and was instrumental in motivating her to pursue a master’s degree.

“Even in parent Facebook groups, people talk about how supportive and understanding  Spack and her team are,” Cummings said. “That says a lot about who she is, especially when she is not in the room.”

Spack said she hopes her legacy will be rooted in kindness.

“I hope I am remembered as someone who showed kindness,” Spack said. “We are all experiencing different phases of life, and it is important that we communicate with respect and care for one another.”

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