Tisha Massey Martin worked at Boise State University for nearly 28 years. When she was diagnosed over seven years ago with incurable cancer, she kept right on working–even through much of her treatment.
Born in Springfield, Missouri, Massey Martin had a deep love for the great outdoors. She grew up surrounded by three brothers, countless pets and a beloved goat named Patrick. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees from Southwest Missouri State University and later worked in the Department of Development at her alma mater. This was the beginning of her lifelong career in higher education.
When she joined Boise State, she was one of only three employees in what was then known as University Advancement. Over the course of her tenure with the department, she held roles responsible for everything from research to data to event planning.
As the university grew, Massey Martin helped advancement grow right along with it. She was often leading from the background, pitching solid ideas that others in leadership would bring forth for endorsement and implementation. She herself became an expert in the field, presenting at the national level on topics such as prospect research and corporate relations. She also worked alongside her fellow colleagues to create the University Advancement Endowed Scholarship in 2006.
Those who knew Massey Martin on campus remember her as a dependable, quiet and wise colleague.
“Tisha was a pillar of strength—principled, loyal to Boise State and unwavering in her integrity. Her kindness was steady and true,“ said Argia Beristain, interim CEO for the Boise State University Foundation and colleague for 10 years. “She loved her family deeply, speaking of them with pride and warmth. Tisha was thoughtful, considerate and fiercely loyal. She leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, deep compassion and unwavering dedication to both her loved ones and her work.”
Outside of work, Massey Martin continued her love of nature and enjoyed traveling with her husband, Trevor. This May would have marked their 30th wedding anniversary. Massey Martin’s diagnosis did not slow down her adventuresome spirit; she traveled with friends and family to Hawaii, Scotland, Cyprus and Greece and even completed an 11-mile hike to a mountain lake.
She was also a proud and loving mom to her two daughters, Sadie and Greta.
Massey Martin died on Jan. 25 at home with Trevor by her side. A reception to celebrate her life was held in the Alumni and Friends Center on Feb. 8, when friends and family shared and reflected on her legacy.
“She didn’t speak much in meetings, but when she did speak, people listened,” said longtime colleague and friend Margaret Bergin. “She knew everything about so many things, but she wasn’t pushy about her knowledge. She was so humble and kind.
“I will miss her gentle wisdom–and her friendship. It really was a privilege to be her friend.”