MARY BETH MARTIN

Mary Beth Martin has served as Executive Director of the Earl Scruggs Center since 2018, leading the organization’s mission to engage visitors through music, history, and cultural programming. She guides the vision and strategic direction of the Center, oversees major projects, and works closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community leaders to ensure the Center’s ongoing impact and success.

During her tenure, Mary Beth has developed signature educational initiatives such as the Bluegrass Ambassadors program and Earl Experience Banjo Camp, expanded cultural programming, and strengthened partnerships throughout the region. She is passionate about making the Earl Scruggs Center a resource for all—supporting music and musicians, fostering creativity, and building meaningful community connections. She also leads major projects including the Earl Scruggs Music Festival and the restoration of the Earl Scruggs Homeplace.

A graduate of Leadership Bluegrass and Leadership Cleveland County, Mary Beth is active in the International Bluegrass Music Association and has presented at its annual business conference. She currently serves on the boards of the Our Stories Project, Bluegrass Ambassadors, and the Earl Scruggs Music Festival, and has previously served on the Banker's House Advisory Committee and the Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce Board.

Mary Beth holds a political science degree from North Carolina State University and an M.B.A. from Gardner-Webb University. She lives in Lattimore, NC with her husband, Jackson, and their two children, Charlotte and Jack.