Eastern Bank's 2022 Social Justice Award Honoree

Ralph C. Martin II

With 40 years of experience as a public leader, business advisor, mentor and trial lawyer, Ralph C. Martin II is known for his inclusive leadership and advocacy for people and communities who are historically underrepresented in the workplace. His efforts to bridge gaps to reduce crime and build community have been recognized by local and national leaders for decades.

Ralph is currently a Partner at Prince Lobel Tye, LLP, where he helps clients understand the interplay of law, business strategy, public policy, and government regulation. Before joining Prince Lobel, Ralph was a member of Northeastern University’s senior leadership team as Senior Vice President and General Counsel. During his 11 years at the university, Northeastern University increased its geographical footprint, opening campuses in major cities in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, and he was also instrumental in bridging town-gown challenges between the university and the residents of Boston.

Ralph is also the former Suffolk County District Attorney, having served as the elected prosecutor for Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop from 1992–2002. As the first Black DA for Boston, he was credited with helping to oversee substantial changes in the way law enforcement collaborated with other agencies to make dramatic improvements in crime prevention and prosecution.

Throughout his professional career, Ralph has consistently given back to our communities. He served as Chair of the Board at The Partnership, Chairman of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Board at Blue Cross Blue Shield. He currently serves on the Board of Boston Children’s Hospital.

Past Recipients of Social Justice Award