Growing up in the small town of Eastland, Texas, Shaun Martin always had his sights set on higher education but wasn’t sure where the journey would take him. With family ties in Abilene and cousins who had attended McMurry University, the decision became clear after a visit to campus. Although he had toured larger schools such as UNT, Texas Tech, and Tarleton, McMurry stood out, not just for the launch of its brand-new baseball program, but for the people.
“Being from a small town, I knew right away this was like home,” Shaun recalls. “I would not be a number in a seminar class but a name to professors and classmates alike. That sense of community was what sold me.”
At McMurry, Shaun made the most of every opportunity. He was a founding member of the new baseball team and immersed himself in campus life through Ko Sari Fraternity, Servant Leadership, Student Government, and multiple clubs. He also served as Grand Sovereign of Ko Sari and became a VisionQuest guide.
What he remembers most, however, are the relationships: “You could almost meet everyone because of the size of the university. You knew professors and staff by name, and they knew you. If you wanted to be involved in everything, you could. If you wanted to be low key, you could do that too. McMurry allowed you to find yourself.”
After graduating with a double major in Communication and Psychology, Shaun began his career with the Boy Scouts of America in Fort Worth, focusing on volunteer management and fundraising. He later returned to Abilene, where he spent a decade with Hendrick Health System in roles spanning Human Resources and Facility Management. From there, he served as Executive Director of Junior Achievement of Abilene, making an impact on area students before joining Atmos Energy in 2014.
Today, Shaun serves as Coordinating Manager of Public Affairs for Atmos Energy, covering a wide region including Abilene, Fort Worth, San Angelo, Waco, Round Rock, and more. In this role, he builds relationships with municipal leaders, elected officials, and community organizations, while also providing operational support during emergencies and shaping public communication strategies
His work has earned him recognition such as being named one of Abilene’s Top 20 Under 40 in Business (2009), the Distinguished Young Alumni Leadership Award from McMurry (2020), and induction into the Junior Achievement 2025 Abilene Business Hall of Fame.
For Shaun, the lessons learned at McMurry—particularly about building relationships and communication—remain at the heart of his personal and professional life. “Relationships matter,” he says. “The ones we make totally shape our personal and professional lives. I wouldn’t trade the experiences of giving speeches, presentations, and building connections for anything.”
His commitment to McMurry continues through service on the Alumni Association Board of Directors Engagement Committee, where he helps strengthen ties between alumni and current students. He also leads efforts with Atmos Energy to support the university, including providing food at the annual Homecoming Tailgate.
“McMurry had an amazing first 100 years, and I want to be part of the next 100,” he says. “Who wouldn’t want to celebrate record enrollment, campus growth, and new leadership? This is a special place with a huge impact.”
Outside of his career and service, Shaun enjoys life with his wife of 24 years, Karen, and their two children—Cash, 19, and Dylan, 15. The family loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s riding horses, camping, hunting, fishing, or playing sports.
Shaun also continues to give back broadly across the community, serving on boards and organizations such as the Abilene Chamber of Commerce, Dyess Air Force Base Military Affairs Committee, Rotary Club of Abilene, Salvation Army, and numerous economic development groups.
Reflecting on his journey, Shaun sums up his pride simply: “McMurry made me who I am today both personally and professionally. We are all part of a special place that has provided lifelong friends, memorable experiences, and lifelong skills. I want to share those things with current and future students as we prepare for the next century. We all have a story to tell, and McMurry helped me write mine.”
Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We’d love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@mcm.edu to schedule an interview.