Today, the HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) learned of Indiana Governor Mike Braun’s proposed state budget for the 2025-2027 fiscal year. This budget includes cuts to funding of DEI supported programs at Martin University, the state’s only predominantly Black institution. The budget completely eliminates funding from the College Success Program, which supports minority and first-generation, low-income students in pursuing higher education. Historically, Martin University, being a private institution, does not receive state funding.

Demetrius Johnson Jr., the founder, President and CEO of HCF, issued the following statement in response to the budget proposal’s release.

“As the nation nagivates the executive order terminating “illegal DEI and DEIA mandates, policies, programs, preferences, and activities” in the federal governement signed by President Trump, we must remain vigilant about the potential impact on historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and minority-serving institutions (MSIs) regarding DEI programs and funding at both the state and federal levels.

Through learning of Indiana Governor Mike Braun’s proposed budget for the 2025-2027 fiscal year, which notably excludes Predominantly Black Martin University, we find this to be quite concerning. Martin University previously received funding from the state that endabled it to provide more resources to minority and first-generation college students. Additionally, the funding supported the College Success Program, which received $10 million in funding over the past two years from lawmarkers.

Martin University remains steadfast in its commitment that fosters educating and developing diverse workforce-ready students in an inclusive, supportive, and collegiate environment, as the state’s only PBI. And, as an organization that’s committed to advocating and supporting institutions as such, we stand behind Martin University Board of Trustees and President Huddleston during this challenging time.

Founded in 1977 by the late Reverend Father Boniface Hardin and Sister Jane Schilling, Martin University was established with a vision akin to Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s to provide education opportunities to individuals of color and minorities. The university was created to overcome the barriers to academic success. As an independent and private institution, we humbly request your unwavering support in standing shoulder to shoulder with us in upholding this esteemed institution.

We will remain steadfastly supportive of Martin University and engage in communication with elected officials to safeguard its mission and vision. Martin University, while not solely dependent on state funding, we must rise above the challenge together and urge you to cherish Martin University’s legacy that will endure for generations to come.”

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To make a donation to Martin University, visit www.martin.edu.

To view the full budget prosposal, visit https://www.in.gov/sba/files/The-Book.pdf.

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