Charles Martinez, Jr., was born and raised in southern California and identifies as a third-generation Mexican American.
His parents divorced when he was young and he lived, at various times, with his father, mother, or extended family members.
He received his master's degree and PhD from the California School of Professional Psychology.
[3][4] While at UofO, Martinez also served as the chair of the Oregon State Board of Education for two years.
[3] Charles Martinez was appointed as the Dean of the College of Education at University of Texas Austin on January 1, 2019.