The Indiana House’s proposed state budget will not include funding for Martin University.
“Everybody understood that was a one-time expenditure,” said Rep. Jeff Thompson, R-Lizton, who chairs the powerful Ways and Means Committee. “That was understood by all people involved in 2023, and so we’re not going to continue that.”
Martin University is a private college that does not typically receive state funding. In 2023, the state appropriated a one-time $5 million grant to Martin over two years, which the university used to attract students to its education and STEM programs.
Martin University President Sean Huddleston told Mirror Indy in a recent interview that while he knew the funding was only for two years, the university’s leaders hoped that if they met certain benchmarks, there might be a discussion about further funding.
When Gov. Mike Braun released his version of the state budget in January, legislators and community members were irate that Braun did not include funding for Martin, the state’s only predominantly Black institution.
After Black faith leaders, community members and Martin alumni rallied outside Braun’s office, Braun met with them and promised to visit Martin University.
The House Ways and Means Committee is set to vote on the proposed budget Feb. 17. The Indiana Senate will also have an opportunity to shape the state budget before the legislative session ends.
Claire Rafford covers higher education for Mirror Indy in partnership with Open Campus. Contact Claire at claire.rafford@mirrorindy.org or on Instagram/X /Bluesky @clairerafford.
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