The Martin University Board of Trustees recently announced that it will pause the university’s operations at the end of the current semester. Like many universities, Martin is facing financial and student enrollment changes, prompting the board to explore ways to continue the institution’s mission of providing a quality education to its students.

Demetrius Johnson, Jr., HCF’s Founder, President & CEO, issued the following statement in response to the Board of Trustees decision to pause university’s operations:

“The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) is deeply saddened by the announcement that Martin University will pause operations at the end of the year. As an institution founded with a mission to expand access to higher education for marginalized and non-traditional learners, Martin University has long served as a vital pillar of opportunity, empowerment, and academic advancement within its community and the broader higher education landscape.

We recognize that decisions of this magnitude are never easy and often complex financial and operational challenges facing many minority-serving institutions across the nation. HCF stands in solidarity with the students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members affected by this transition. Their resilience, leadership, and commitment to the University’s mission have been instrumental to its legacy and impact.

As Martin University navigates this critical moment, HCF remains committed to advocating for increased support, sustainable funding, and stronger institutional resources for all minority-serving institutions and predominantly Black institutions like Martin University — ensuring that their missions not only endure but thrive for generations to come.

We extend our continued support to Martin University as Indiana’s only Predominantly Black Institution and all those connected to its proud history of academic excellence.”

---

Stand with Martin University during critical time. Support its ongoing operations and mission by making a donation at www.martin.edu/giving.

###