Auto Entrepreneur Fred Martin donates $500,000| to Lake Erie College

Lake Erie College is honored to announce a transformative $500,000 gift from automotive entrepreneur Fred Martin, best known as the Youngstown Ford dealer for 52 years. Martin was also a Mercedes-Benz dealer for 40 years and was the founder of the Fred Martin Superstore.

This generous contribution is threefold. First, it celebrates the life and legacy of his late cousin Barbara McClelland Kirk, a 1964 graduate of Lake Erie College, through the establishment of an endowed scholarship that will support students with significant financial need. In addition, Martin funded the purchase of two top-of-the-line Steinway pianos, significantly enhancing the College’s music program in memory of his mother, Dorothy Garrett Martin. Finally, Martin provided support for vital operating needs across campus.

Martin is an advocate of liberal arts education as evidenced through his generous philanthropic support. Martin has made gifts to four Northeast Ohio colleges and universities including Hiram College, University of Akron, Stark State College, and Kent State University. Martin also recently created a scholarship in memory of his brother, James Martin, at the University of Houston. Adding Lake Erie College to this list of institutions, Martin said, “The quality of Lake Erie College’s academic program led by President Jennifer Schuller is very impressive.”.

“I am deeply grateful to Fred Martin for this extraordinary investment in our students and campus,” said President Jennifer N. Schuller. “By honoring his family legacy in this way, Fred has created something truly meaningful and enduring. His gift will support student success, artistic expression, and the overall vitality of the College for years to come.”

One of the Steinways, a concert grand piano, will be placed in Morley Music Hall, enriching performances and academic experiences for students and guests. The second, a Spirio Player Piano, will be placed in Manor House, where it will serve as a cultural and hospitality centerpiece for campus and community events.