Alumni from Martin University are speaking out. They gathered on campus on December 17 to demand the resignation of Joseph Perkins, the university’s Board Chair, claiming they have not received adequate communication or accountability from him.
“We’re asking for Chairman Joseph Perkins’ resignation,” said Dwight McGill, the Alumni Association president. He emphasized the need for accountability, stating they have been left in the dark while attending press conferences and receiving vague statements. “Someone has to be accountable.”
On December 9, the Board of Trustees announced a pause of operations due to financial and enrollment issues. Despite this setback, McGill reassured attendees that the university is still accredited and remains operational, though classes are currently halted. The fall semester ended on December 12, and it’s unclear if classes will resume in the spring. However, members of the Alumni Association are actively working to keep the university open.
Additional alumni echoed McGill’s sentiments, insisting that changes in leadership were needed beyond just Perkins. “Everyone on the board is at risk too because we need answers,” McGill added. “Students, faculty, and staff are searching for clarity without any responses.”
John Bartlett, a State Representative for Indiana and a Martin alumnus, noted that the Alumni Association has tried to communicate with the board, but their attempts have gone unanswered. He highlighted that crucial decisions, like the former president’s resignation, were made without involving alumni, raising questions about the board’s intentions.
Another MUAA member voiced a sense of exclusion, saying, “The Alumni Association is not part of the disaster unfolding at this university. We’re fighting for its survival.” Bartlett reinforced this sentiment, stressing the importance of Martin University as Indiana’s only predominantly Black institution. “Martin needs community support to thrive,” he explained.
Clyde Posley Jr., also an alumnus and former professor, emphasized that Martin has played a vital role for many in the community. “I was the first in my family to graduate from college, and many others from our community have benefitted from Martin as well,” he said. He urged current students to be patient as alumni work to resolve these issues. “Please give us a chance,” he said. “Martin has been patient with its students. Now, students should extend that patience back.”
The call for change at Martin University resonates beyond just the campus. As the Alumni Association seeks answers, it represents a wider community effort aiming to protect a key educational institution for Black students in Indiana.
For more insights on educational institutions facing similar challenges, you can refer to Inside Higher Ed for ongoing reports and updates. Recent surveys indicate that trust between university administrations and their communities is a growing concern in the academic landscape.
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