Martin University is Indiana's only predominantly Black university.
(Devan Ridgway, WTIU)
A funding cut for the state’s only predominantly Black college is raising alarms, after Gov. Mike Braun released his budget proposal.
Lawmakers and community members are calling on Braun to add funding for Martin University. Joseph Perkins, chair of Martin’s Board of Trustees, said the university is working to “fill the gaps.”
“We are really very appreciative of the outpouring of support that has taken place since the budget cut was announced,” Perkins said.
The private university received $5 million from the state in 2023 for workforce development. Perkins said the university knew it could be a one-time grant.
“We do have other funding sources,” Perkins said. “But it does mean that we do have to accelerate some of our planning so that we can meet some shortfall that that likely will happen.”
Griffin Reid, Braun’s press secretary, said Martin received a one-time allotment in the past. Reid said that President Sean Huddleston told the governor’s office he “knew it was one-time funding, did not ask for additional funding, and does not expect to be included in this budget.”
Braun also deleted a program for minority, first-generation and low-income college students.
Rep. Greg Porter (D-Indianapolis) called the cuts racist and said they were “very devastating” for students of color, first-generation students and low-income students. He said every Hoosier who wants to go to college and work in their communities should have that funding available.
“This is about the students who are trying to better their lives and contribute to society,” Porter said.
In addition to Porter, Perkins said Sen. La Kiesha Jackson (D-Indianapolis),who represents Martin’s campus area,and other members of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus have rallied behind the university.
Martin will continue to focus on educating underrepresented students, such as adult learners and African-American students, Perkins said. Martin plans to accelerate some funding and fundraising plans, as well as directly asking for help from corporate partners.
“We will also, from an academic standpoint, continue to move forward with academic programming that is directed at filling the needs of the local economy in Indianapolis and in the greater Indianapolis area,” Perkins said.
It’s unusual but not unique for private universities such as Martin to receive state funding.
Porter, who has an honorary doctorate from Martin, said Indiana has financially supported other private colleges such as Marion University. He said Martin earned the money by proving it could attract and retain students for high-demand careers in STEM, teaching and law enforcement.
Perkins said the funds were used for an “earn and learn” apprenticeship program.
“They had to prove their worth in regards to getting those dollars, which some other universities don't have to do,” Porter said.
Braun’s proposed budget doesn’t include funding for any private colleges.
Braun’s proposal also cuts funds for the Commission for Higher Education’s College Success Program. The program’s aim was to increase graduation rates to grow Indiana’s workforce, and the state had awarded $5 million to two dozen college campuses.
Indiana University Bloomington used the funds to create success coaches for 21st Century Scholars. IU reported graduation improvements for these students.
Aubrey is our higher education reporter and a Report For America corps member. Contact her ataubmwrig@iu.eduor follow her on X@aubreymwright.
