Jan 29, 2025 Story by: Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — Martin University, Indiana’s only predominantly Black institution of higher learning, will not receive additional funding under Governor Mike Braun’s 2025 budget proposal. At present, the proposal does not include any financial support for the university.
In the previous budget cycle, Martin University was allocated five million dollars from the state, which was used to bolster its educational programs. This latest decision by Governor Braun has raised concerns among Democratic lawmakers.
State Representative Greg Porter, a Democrat from Indianapolis, commented, “The actions are there and they are racist actions. It’s important to us so we just gotta say what it is.”
Porter believes that Governor Braun’s actions, including the removal of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives and the failure to provide funding to the state’s only predominantly Black college, speak volumes.
“Martin University is a pillar in this community and is a pillar in the state of Indiana,” he emphasized.
University officials pointed out that the five million dollars allocated in 2023 provided much-needed financial relief for their budget. Joseph Perkins, chair of the university’s Board of Trustees, however, admitted that they were aware of the potential for funding challenges.
“We were told back then that the funding could be a one-time thing and that a second round of funding might not happen and as it turns out that has not happened,” Perkins explained.
At present, Martin University serves around 200 students. Despite concerns, university officials maintain that the lack of funding this year will not directly impact enrollment, although they may need to reassess the academic programs offered.
“Martin is resilient, and this is another opportunity for the university to be innovative and to address this challenge and continue to be resilient,” Perkins added.
Representative Porter remains steadfast in his advocacy for funding for Martin University, noting that the state funding the institution received in the previous cycle came under former Governor Eric Holcomb. Source: WRTV
