• 2006 – Georgia Tech Honors Program Established

  • Founded as an “Institute-wide incubator for intellectual inquiry and engagement” led by Director Gregory Nobles.
  • “At the outset we knew we wanted something out of the ordinary, a program more about questions than answers. That first year set the tone, I think, for the subsequent history of the honors program. One of the students asked me if they were ‘guinea pigs’ in a Georgia Tech experiment. ‘No, explorers,’ I told him.” (Gregory Nobles)

• Spring 2010 – First Cohort Graduates

• 2010 – Program Office Moves to A. French

• 2014 – Roberta Berry Named Director

  • “I experienced the opportunity to direct the honors program following founding Director Dr. Greg Nobles as a great gift. First and foremost in my recollection are the students—participating with energy and insight in the classroom, brainstorming and planning events on whiteboards, diving into games and sporting events with enthusiasm. I also recall with deep appreciation the endless dedication of honors program staff as well as faculty who seized the opportunity to innovate in the classroom." (Roberta Berry)

• 2015 – Living Learning Community Established

  • Students reside in Hefner-Armstrong and Crecine Residence Halls

• August 2022 - Program Moves to Eighth Street Apartments

• Fall 2022 – Program Begins Admitting Transfer Students

• Spring 2025 – Amy D’Unger Named Faculty Director

  • “What makes this role so rewarding is the opportunity to work with students who are not simply accomplished, but deeply curious—students who want to understand complex problems, challenge assumptions, learn from one another, and use their talents in ways that matter. I have come to understand that honors education is not about being the best. It is about bringing out the best in ourselves and in others.” (Amy D'Unger)

• Summer 2025 – Official Naming: John H. Martinson Honors Program

  • Following a philanthropic investment from venture capitalist John Martinson, the program was named in his honor.
  • Program commits to expanding entering class size and enhancing interdisciplinary coursework, faculty mentorship, and immersive learning.

• Spring 2026 – David Torello Named Executive Director

  • “For 20 years, the honors program has evolved to meet the needs of ambitious students. Today, with new opportunities, deeper faculty engagement, and a growing community of support, we are preparing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and changemakers to make meaningful impact in a complex world.” (David Torello)

• Fall 2026 – Over 1,000 John H. Martinson Honors Program Students Enrolled in Program

The John H. Martinson Honors Program continues to evolve, targeting an incoming cohort of 500, approximately 10% of Georgia Tech’s overall matriculating student population. The curriculum has been updated to incorporate the Leaders in Progress & Service graduation distinction.

Alumni, faculty, and family involvement are crucial to the success and expansion of the program.