Motley Retires After 38 Years

Marva Motley, a friendly advocate for design and veterinary students, retired this month after 38 years at NC State.

As assistant dean for student and academic services in the College of Design, Motley streamlined the electronic application process and created a one-stop service center for students. She expanded Design Camp, which brings hundreds of prospective students to campus for hands-on experience.

Before moving to design in 1995, Motley served as the first admissions director for the College of Veterinary Medicine. She was responsible for recruitment, admissions and retention for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. She created the college’s Summer High School Apprentice Program and worked with North Carolina colleges to increase minority participation.

Motley was active in programs that benefited students. She served as a board member for SeeSaw Studios, an after-school outreach program in Durham that mentors at-risk children. Many of those kids later attended NC State.

Motley plans to stay rooted in the community. She wants to garden, travel and spend time with her family, especially her three grandsons.