Martin University

Martin University, established in 1977 as Martin Center College, held a unique and vital place in Indiana's educational landscape. Named in honor of both civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. and St. Martin de Porres, the patron saint of mixed-race people, the institution was founded with a profound mission to foster racial harmony and serve its community. It proudly stood as Indiana's sole Predominantly Black Institution (PBI), providing a distinct and supportive environment for its students, even though its founding date excluded it from the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) designation.

Originally growing out of a non-profit human services agency, Martin University maintained its independent spirit while evolving to meet the needs of its learners. After starting at 35th Street and College Avenue, the campus relocated to its permanent home on Avondale Place in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood in 1987. This move allowed for significant expansion, transforming a former church and school into a vibrant educational hub. The commitment to providing exceptional facilities culminated in the grand opening of a $10-million Educational Center and an adjoining Peace Garden in 2001.

This modern center became the heart of campus life, featuring nine state-of-the-art classrooms, faculty and staff offices, an expansive 800-seat Gathertorium for community gatherings, and a distinctive two-story, glass-and-steel globe. Students benefited from dedicated lounges, a Frederick Douglass Room for study and reflection, and even a smoking-cessation center, reflecting a holistic approach to student well-being. Though Martin University suspended operations in late 2025 due to enrollment and financial challenges, its legacy as a pivotal private college, serving 223 students and committed to its founding principles, remains a significant chapter in Indiana's higher education history.