BSU removes Martin, names Cathy Deeb ‘Acting President’

By Matthew Young, BBG

On a day when Sen. Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) visited Bluefield State University to discuss several recent pieces of potentially impactful federal legislation, BSU’s Board of Governors announced the firing of University President Dr. Darrin Martin. 

In a Friday afternoon press release, it was stated that, “The Board of Governors of Bluefield State University has voted today to withdraw approval of the July 14, 2026, renewed presidential contract of Dr. Darrin Martin, ending his employment with the University.”

“After careful deliberation and in accordance with its governing responsibilities, BSU Board of Governors Chairman Charlie Cole said they took this action following information recently brought to its attention concerning the University’s fiscal stability, internal operations, and administrative oversight,” the statement continues. “The Board determined that this change was necessary to ensure the University has the financial transparency and stability it needs going forward.”

Effective immediately, Board of Governors Vice-chair Cathy Deeb has been appointed to serve as acting president until an interim president is selected. As further noted by the board’s statement, “Deeb has been a member of the Bluefield State Board of Governors since 2017. She is a graduate of Bluefield State and is the owner of DCI Property Management. She has been a resident of Bluefield for 33 years.”

Black By God was on hand at BSU Friday for Justice’s appearance, and will provide full reporting in the coming days. Future reporting will include any updates regarding the actions of the BSU Board of Governors as additional information is made available.

Read the BSU Board of Governors full statement below:

The Board of Governors of Bluefield State University has voted today to withdrawal approval of the July 14, 2026, renewed presidential contract of Dr. Darrin Martin, ending his employment with the University. 

After careful deliberation and in accordance with its governing responsibilities, BSU Board of Governors Chairman Charlie Cole said they took this action following information recently brought to its attention concerning the University’s fiscal stability, internal operations, and administrative oversight. The Board determined that this change was necessary to ensure the University has the financial transparency and stability it needs going forward. 

Effective immediately, the Board has appointed Vice Chairwoman Cathy Deeb to serve as Acting President. She will not receive payment for this role. Cole said they are confident that Deeb will provide steady leadership and ensure continuity across University operations, academic programs, and student support services until such a time that an interim president can be named. 

Deeb has been a member of the Bluefield State Board of Governors since 2017. She is a graduate of Bluefield State and is the owner of DCI Property Management. She has been a resident of Bluefield for 33 years. 

“We understand this news may raise questions, and we are committed to keeping our community informed as this transition moves forward,” Cole said. 

Classes, campus operations, activities, and student services will continue without interruption. The Board has full confidence in the dedication of BSU faculty, staff, and leadership to serve students and guide the institution through this transition. 

This transition follows the Board’s determination that it needs direct, unrestricted access to the University’s financial records. The Board has engaged an independent accounting firm to conduct a full review of the University’s finances and ensure that all obligations are properly accounted for and met. This review will begin as soon as possible. 

“Our students, faculty, and staff are the heart of this University, and nothing about that changes today,” Cole said. “The Board’s immediate priorities are to stabilize the University’s financial position and protect the future of the institution for its students, staff, faculty, and community. We are taking swift steps to strengthen financial oversight and meet the University’s obligations responsibly.” 

The Board remains committed to transparency, fiscal integrity, and the long-term vitality of Bluefield State University. Throughout this transition, its focus will remain on providing a stable educational environment and preserving the services and opportunities that students and employees depend upon.