Martin University is Indiana's only predominantly black institution (PBI) serving adult learners for nearly half a century. Founded in 1977 by Reverend Father Boniface Hardin and Sister Jane Schilling, its vision was to serve low-income, minority, and adult learners. Martin University was created, amid the inner-city barriers to academic success, to offer ordinary and disenfranchised people opportunities to change their destinies through education. The University is recognized as an institution that offers access and opportunities to persons who have been discounted, discouraged, and disregarded in the educational attainment process. Martin University is a distinctive institution that is future-oriented, interconnected, and learning-centered. The University is a non-denominational, private, liberal arts institution with over 1,500 alumni.
Martin University serves students with experienced faculty and staff committed to helping every student achieve their educational, career, and personal goals. A large majority of our students are African American, female, and over the age of 25. Approximately 90% of the students attending Martin University receive financial aid.
The University plays a unique role in the Indianapolis community, as many graduates have gone on to become distinguished leaders. Some outstanding graduates include a former Deputy Mayor for the City of Indianapolis, a Senior Public Affairs Executive for a nationally recognized law firm, an Administrator for the Pike Township Fire Department, a former Marion County Sheriff, a Marion County Chaplain, a McDonald's Franchise Owner, a Pastor of a 16,000-member church, clergymen, social workers, daycare workers and owners, police officers, and published authors.
Our Story, Our Legacy
Mission
As Indiana's only Predominantly Black Institution of Higher Education, Martin University educates and develops diverse workforce-ready students in an inclusive, supportive and collegiate environment.
Vision
Martin University’s vision is to elevate the landscape while providing transformative opportunities, inclusive support, and service to our communities.
Core Values
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Excellence - We strive for and expect the very best in everything we do.
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Opportunity - As a student-centered institution, we see opportunity in everything and believe that everyone has the potential to achieve success.
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Transformation - We believe in the power of positive change and the benefits of transformative thinking and actions that revolutionize individuals, places, and society.
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Innovation - We stimulate and encourage creativity as a means for achieving progress and avoiding complacency.
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Collaboration - We are at our best when we work together. Cooperation, trust, and teamwork lead to collective impact.
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Servant Leadership - We believe that the best leaders are those who are committed to serving others by uplifting and empowering people and communities.
Ready to Discover What’s Possible at Martin University?
Five Year Strategic Plan
The Martin University five-year Strategic Plan, titled Mission-Driven, Future-Focused represents a transformational approach to sustainability and innovative growth for Martin that builds upon the dream and legacy of our illustrious founder Father Boniface Hardin. Under this plan, our efforts will be uniquely aligned with the vision, mission, and core values of the University while ensuring that our students, faculty, staff, alumni, community, and friends remain engaged in our collective progress and success.