We advance forward, seeking to be Good and Faithful Servants. And we serve in hope, believing that lasting eternal fruit will result from our efforts.
— Dr. Marty Marriott
Few men have left a mark so enduring at º£½ÇÔ´´ as Dr. Marty Marriott, a man whose life and ministry have been defined by faithful service, humble leadership, and a vision rooted in eternal purpose.
From the pulpit to the classroom, and from the boardroom to the mission field, Dr. Marriott’s heartbeat has always been the same: to train leaders for the local church and the world “To the Praise of His Glory.”
As º£½ÇÔ´´’s fifth president (2010–2023) and then as its second chancellor (2023–2026), he led with conviction and compassion, guiding the institution to embrace modern educational opportunities while remaining anchored to its biblical foundations.
Dr. Marriott’s story is one of grace and calling. Saved out of the Hippie movement while studying engineering at the University of Cincinnati, he was drawn by the persistence of an evangelistic coworker and the ministry of a TV preacher. When he arrived at º£½ÇÔ´´ in 1974, he was a new believer in Christ, hungry for truth and direction. There he not only found his theological foundation, but also met Miriam Cummins, the woman who would become his lifelong partner in ministry. They married in 1976 and began a journey together that would impact thousands for Christ.
Before becoming president of º£½ÇÔ´´, Dr. Marriott faithfully pastored local churches for over three decades. His ministry was marked by deep preaching, strong discipleship, and a heart for global missions.
I desire to perpetuate the heritage of the college while expanding its influence and educational opportunities. To say it another way, I want to lead º£½ÇÔ´´ to adapt to the educational needs of our day while staying true to our founding principles.
— Dr. Marty Marriott
When Dr. Marriott assumed the presidency in 2010, he immediately introduced two strategic initiatives that would shape º£½ÇÔ´´’s future.
He later guided the restructuring of the university’s leadership with the Executive Council, Strategy Council, and Leadership Council, ensuring collaboration, efficiency, and long-term institutional strength. Under his direction, º£½ÇÔ´´ not only adapted to the changing landscape of higher education but flourished spiritually and academically.
Dr. and Mrs. Marriott have always served as a team. Miriam (“Mrs. M”) has been her husband’s greatest encourager and an essential part of º£½ÇÔ´´’s campus culture of Christian love. Known across campus for her warmth and hospitality, Mrs. M has, with her husband, opened their home to students and friends countless times for fellowship. Together, the Marriotts have modeled what ministry partnership looks like: joyful, faithful, and centered on Christ.
Married to Miriam (Cummins)
Marriott since 1976
Three children—
Rebecca, Rachel, and David
—all MBU alumni serving in
full-time ministry
Twelve beloved
grandchildren
Dr. Marriott’s life reminds us that Christian leadership is not about position but about purpose—serving faithfully wherever God leads us to go. Dr. Marriott once described the work of MBU with these words, which are now a great summary of the life he has lived for God:
“We do not exist to exist. We are here to make an investment in present and future classes of students. And though we cannot do nearly as much as we hope to, eternal success is about preparing others to do the things that are left undone and in a more effective, more Christ-honoring way than we have done ourselves.
Every one of us should desire to leave for those after us a better church, a more passionate concern for souls, and a greater vision for the glory of God.”
Dr. Marriott’s writings reflect his lifelong devotion to Scripture, guiding readers to think biblically and live faithfully.
A Gospel Tract by Dr. Marty Marriott
A Gospel Tract by Dr. Marty Marriott
A Book by Dr. Marty Marriott
