My name is Erin Martin, and I’m a 2011 graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School. Today, I serve as the Director of Retirement Training and Education at Ash Brokerage, essentially the marketing director for the retirement division. No two days look the same, and I truly love that. Some days I’m creating marketing campaigns and strategies for financial advisors across the country; other days, I’m working with internal teams to launch initiatives that make retirement planning feel less intimidating and more personal. A lot of my work centers on collaboration, creativity, and clear communication.
I’ve always been drawn to connecting with people and finding creative ways to tell stories that matter. That passion really took shape during my senior year of college when I pursued an internship with the Parkview Health Foundation. What started as a short-term opportunity quickly grew into a part-time role and eventually a full-time position, where I stayed for more than six years. From there, I transitioned to Ash Brokerage, where I’ve now been for nearly five years. That journey showed me how much I value blending creativity with purpose, and it led me to a marketing career that feels both strategic and meaningful. While I no longer work in the nonprofit sector, I still dedicate time and energy to philanthropic work and causes I care deeply about.
After Concordia, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Organizational and Interpersonal Communication from Purdue University Fort Wayne. Communication has always been a strength of mine—ironically, it’s probably what got me in the most trouble back in high school. Now, it’s the foundation of everything I do, from marketing to building strong relationships in a fast-paced industry.
During my time at Concordia, I was involved in both soccer and basketball. Those experiences taught me how to balance a busy schedule, work as part of a team, and push through challenges—even when I was exhausted after practice. Looking back, they shaped my understanding of leadership and perseverance in ways that still impact me today.
What I loved most about Concordia was the faith-based environment and the relationships I built there. The school gave me a strong foundation not just academically, but personally and spiritually. I met my best friend during my freshman year, and she continues to be a huge influence on my life and faith today.
If I could offer advice to current students, it would be this: don’t be afraid to pursue what truly excites you, even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s path. God has a way of aligning things exactly as they’re meant to be, even when it doesn’t make sense at first. Be kind, stay curious, and trust that your hard work—along with your faith—will guide you where you’re meant to go.
One verse that has stayed with me through every season of life is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” It’s a constant reminder that God’s plan is always bigger and better than my own.
Outside of work, I love staying involved in causes that matter to me and giving back to the community. I’ve volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and the Humane Society of Fort Wayne. I also enjoy traveling—most recently to Turkey with my church—speaking at advisor events across the country, and continuing to find ways to bring together creativity, connection, and purpose in everything I do.