Morningside Connect

Ryan Martinez, a 2015 Morningside graduate, is living out his dream as a co-founder of Volunteer Siouxland, Siouxland’s new online volunteer center that boasts over 70 organizations and 450 volunteers signed up within the first month.

“While serving in the nonprofit sector for almost 2 years, I recognized that there was a need in my community for meaningful volunteerism,” he said. “After identifying that a physical location for a volunteer center was not financially sustainable, my co-founder and I took charge and created an all-new way to volunteer.”

During his time at Morningside, Martinez majored in graphic design with a minor in advertising.

“The size of the college was one of the primary reasons I chose Morningside,” he said. “I knew a smaller college setting would allow me to foster a more meaningful relationship with my professors and advisors, as well as provide me with more opportunities to develop as a leader.”

During college, Martinez was involved in the Entrepreneurship Group, serving as the president, and he was the treasurer in Student Government.

The knowledge Martinez gained through his activities, such as Entrepreneurship Group, led him to some great accomplishments, a few of which include 2014 Student Entrepreneur of the Year and Business Competition ‘Swimming with the Sharks’ two-time award winner in 2014 and 2016. He also developed and coordinated Sioux City’s Entrepreneurial Event, Base 3.

Martinez reflected on his time at Morningside and noted one of his favorite things about college.

“Without a doubt, it was the community that exists at Morningside. I was always surrounded by peers who were striving to become a better version of themselves, as well as advisors who prepared me for the post-college life by challenging me and pushing me out of my comfort zone. It certainly proved true to me that you are a reflection of the people you surround yourself with.”

Martinez’s advice to current students was to take advantage of the opportunities at Morningside.

“Students should take full advantage of their student status, embrace being a learner and ask others for help, advice and shared wisdom,” he said. “People are always willing to help students if you just ask. My greatest mentors fell into my network simply because I asked for their feedback and guidance on projects I was working on at the time.”

Martinez’s advice to young alumni was to get involved in their community.

“The best way to grow as an individual and professional is to work alongside like-minded individuals on something you are passionate about. By doing this, you are making a positive impact in your community and opening doors to new opportunities by growing your network.”