Lifestyle Defined by Mindset.

At The Academic Athlete, our mission is to create accessible pathways for children from all backgrounds to succeed academically. We aim to break down barriers and expand opportunities in STEM, the arts, and various disciplines. Our foundation fosters an environment where mentorship plays a pivotal role, guiding youth to navigate their educational journeys with confidence.

By implementing comprehensive educational programs, we focus on enhancing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills. Community engagement initiatives allow us to connect students with local resources and role models, enriching their learning experiences. Through these efforts, we strive to instill a passion for knowledge that transcends traditional limitations, ultimately nurturing future scholars, innovators, and leaders who can contribute positively to society.

Our Story

As a 501(C)(3), The Academic Athlete Foundation was founded to break the cycle of a single narrative often pushed onto students in underprivileged or disadvantaged neighborhoods—that becoming a professional athlete is the only way to escape generational poverty. With the glamour and wealth of professional sports frequently highlighted in modern media, many young people are conditioned to believe that their only ticket to success is through the athletic arena. This narrow perspective not only limits their aspirations but also discourages them from investing in their academic potential. We started this company to challenge that mindset and redefine what success looks like for these communities.

Our mission is to spotlight the opportunities available through STEM-related careers, showing students that they have the potential to secure a future just as bright and prosperous as that of any professional athlete. We aim to empower young minds to utilize their experiences on the field or court, and consider how that couples with the impact they can make as engineers, scientists, and innovators. Through educational initiatives, mentorship programs, and strategic partnerships, we’re dedicated to inspiring the next generation to dream big and recognize that the path to success is not singular but filled with diverse possibilities.

Our Team

Wayne Martin, a Professional Engineer, founder and CEO, knows firsthand the power of perseverance and education. Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland in a challenging environment, Wayne was a dedicated student-athlete, excelling both on the field and in the classroom. Despite the constant narrative that sports would be his only way out, he was repeatedly reminded that his future depended on his commitment to academics. Driven by this encouragement, Wayne poured his energy into his studies, realizing that his potential extended far beyond athletic success. After earning a degree in Electrical Engineering, he founded MDS Engineering, where he now uses his story to inspire the next generation. Through his leadership, Wayne is committed to changing the narrative for students in underprivileged communities, showing them that there are many paths to success and that education can open doors just as wide as sports.

Wayne has been honored with the following awards:

  • 2023 McNees LEAP Program Award 

  • 2023 YCEA & Downtown York: Change Maker - The Motivotor Award

  • 2024 Central Penn Business Journal: 40 under 40 Award

  • 2024 Community Progress Council: Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors

Wayne Martin, President

Lakeisa Martin, Vice President

Mahdee McNeil, Treasurer

Kristen Pucci, At-Large Member

Michael Black, At-Large Director

Derrik Wolpert, At-Large Member

Michael Rascoe, Secretary

Company Goals

  • Our goal is to partner with established nonprofits that specialize in mentoring and working with youth. Through these collaborations, we can provide young people with the support, resources, and opportunities needed to excel academically and explore diverse career paths. Together, we aim to create lasting impact by empowering the next generation to reach their full potential.

  • We are committed to working with school districts in underserved communities to provide students with greater access to educational opportunities. By collaborating with educators and administrators, we aim to introduce STEM-related programs that inspire and equip students for future success. Our goal is to help bridge the gap in resources and ensure every student has the chance to thrive academically.

  • Our goal is to create a platform for impactful speaking engagements featuring the founder and trusted partners. By sharing personal stories and expertise, we aim to inspire and educate communities about the transformative power of education and STEM opportunities. These events will serve as a catalyst for change, motivating young people to explore new paths to success.