Martin L. Woods, a distinguished educator from Chicago, embodies a wealth of experience in education, arts administration, and performance. With roles in prestigious charter and private schools, his commitment to inclusive teaching, innovative curricula and fostering community has made a profound imprint.

At Wolcott College Prep, where he served as Director of Student Life and Director of Diversity and Belonging, he developed deep advocacy for students with learning differences. As the first African American principal of U-High at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Martin cultivates inclusive environments and champions diversity. Renowned for forging connections, he leads initiatives for furthering impactful academics and supporting students.

An accomplished opera singer, Martin has performed on stages like the Lyric Opera of Chicago and The Goodman Theater. A graduate of Morehouse College and Roosevelt University, he pursued further studies at Booth and the Yale School of Management. Committed to his community, Martin serves as Director of Arts and Programming for Christ Universal Temple Church and Founder of the Chicago HBCU Alumni Choir and Vocalogy Chicago Inc., guided by a legacy of educators in his family.