Sean L. Huddleston has been named the next president of Martin University, a private, predominantly Black institution (PBI) in Indianapolis, the Board of Trustees announced this week.
Huddleston, who is currently vice president for equity and inclusion at the University of Indianapolis, will begin his tenure as Martin’s sixth president on March 25.
During his presidency, Huddleston expects to build on predecessor Dr. Eugene White’s efforts by growing enrollment, addressing affordability, increasing funding and preparing students to successfully compete in the workforce.
“I am deeply honored and extremely excited to have been selected to serve as the next president of Martin University,” Huddleston said of his appointment. “I truly believe that its rich history and mission makes Martin one of the most important higher education institutions in our region.”
Having attended two historically Black institutions (HBCUs) – Howard University and then Alabama State University – Huddleston is more than familiar with how important of a role it is for Martin to serve as Indiana’s only PBI.
Tapping into Martin’s traditions and history, upholding the culture of support found at HBCUs and creating and fostering resilience for students are among the things Huddleston said he expects to promote throughout his presidency.
He also has his eyes set on making sure that Martin is seen as a “communiversity” – a place that “is in, about and for the community,” he added. He pointed out the university’s place as a beacon of opportunity for a diverse population of students, particularly nontraditional students.
