Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Indiana’s Only Predominantly Black University to Close as Martin Winds Down Operations

Trustees said the university lacked the operating cash needed to continue.

Overview

  • Martin resigned its accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission effective Dec. 31 as the board moved from a temporary pause to a formal shutdown.
  • Trustees cited declining enrollment, rising costs and accumulated debt, with auditors warning of “substantial doubt” about continued operations.
  • The accreditor’s role is disputed, with trustees saying HLC instructed a shutdown and HLC contesting that characterization.
  • Teach-out plans are in progress, including an HLC‑approved agreement with the University of Indianapolis and outreach from Marian and Indiana Wesleyan universities.
  • Recent turbulence included mass layoffs, reported uncertainty over employee pay, a 2022 cyberattack that corrupted records and leadership turnover.