Demond Martin ’97 returns to campus for Friends of the Good book launch

UNC Charlotte will welcome esteemed alumnus, philanthropist and WellWithAll CEO Demond T. Martin ’97 to campus on Tuesday, March 31, for the launch of his new book, “Friends of the Good.”

The event, which starts at 5 p.m. in the Popp Martin Student Union, will feature a series of narrative conversations with those who shaped Martin’s personal and professional journey — including former roommates, fraternity brothers and mentor Erskine Bowles — highlighting the power of mentorship, community and shared purpose. A reception will follow.

Martin’s life and work are shaped by the mentors, teachers and “chosen family” who guided him from his early years through his professional ascent — insights he explores in “Friends of the Good.” Through the Martin Family Foundation, he and his wife, Kia ’98, focus on eliminating racial and social inequities in education and healthcare. Martin serves on several nonprofit boards, including the Berklee College of Music, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, the Grammy Global Venture Board and the Obama Foundation.

A longtime champion of UNC Charlotte, Martin has served on the UNC Charlotte Foundation Board, funded the Martin Scholars program for high-achieving low-income students and was awarded the University’s highest honor, the Doctor of Public Service, in 2023.

The “Friends of the Good” book launch coincides with the 11th annual Niner Nation Gives campaign, a 49-hour celebration of collective generosity. Beginning Tuesday, March 31 through Thursday, April 2, Niners everywhere are invited to help build Charlotte’s future by supporting programs, scholarships and initiatives that strengthen the university community.