Eric Weddle

Wow— Martin University will pause operations at the end of the month, citing “financial and student enrollment challenges…” Martin is Indiana’s only predominantly Black college. The president stepped down in November. College is asking for donations to keep operating through December. Here is full statement the university sent out this morning— INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The Martin University Board of Trustees today announced that it will pause the university’s operations at the end of the current semester. Like many universities, Martin is experiencing financial and student enrollment challenges that has the board exploring ways to continue Martin’s mission of providing a quality education to its students.   “Martin University’s primary focus has always been on providing its students with an outstanding education and hiring the most qualified and talented faculty and staff possible,” said Board of Trustees Chairman Joseph Perkins. “A primary need of Martin’s is for more community support. This includes funding for its vast first-generation college students who are fighting courageously to make a better life for their families.” The university has no endowment.   According to Perkins, who cites a major reduction in enrollment nationally, President Sean Huddleston worked tirelessly up to his last day on November 28 exploring numerous options to sustain Martin, but was unsuccessful. Huddleston stepped down as president to pursue other opportunities as previously announced on September 10.   “Our Board appreciates the work Dr. Huddleston did to maintain the viability and mission of the institution for more than six years; however, the board now finds it necessary to work on a plan regarding the university’s future,” said Perkins.   At this time that future includes discontinuing classes on its campus at 2186 North Sherman Drivewhen the semester ends.    Perkins cites a number of factors for the board’s decision including financial challenges and a decrease in enrollment that makes it difficult to maintain the university’s current operations. He says that the board has been discussing strategic options to minimize interruption to the education of its currently enrolled students. He also says the board is exploring ways to continue Martin’s mission of providing education to an underrepresented population.