Martin University launches Center for Racial Equity and Inclusion

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) – Martin University is launching the Martin University Center for Racial Equity and Inclusion. The university says its purpose is to assist leaders and organizations in their efforts to strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion.

Martin says the center will utilize workshops, lectures, seminars, programs, initiatives and consulting engagements to achieve its mission and goals. The activities will be open to the community, and some will be planned in partnership with other organizations.

“Many people strive to become more inclusive and equity-minded but remain uncertain about how to convert their intentions into action,” said Dr. Sean Huddleston, president of Martin University. “The Center will help develop sustainable strategies and practices to provide that opportunity.”

Some of the center’s programs and initiatives will include:

• Brother to Brother: An initiative that will focus on helping to empower, influence, and support success for men of color through education, networking, mentorship, and coalition building.
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leadership Academy: A professional development and certification program for current and aspiring diversity, equity, and inclusion professionals and practitioners.
• Urban Leadership Summit: A coalition-building initiative for civic and community leaders, providing a workspace for leaders to develop new initiatives that will help initiate change and engender greater accountability for racial equity.

The center’s consulting services include: diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic planning support, equity and inclusion organizational assessments, workforce recruitment and retention strategies, supplier diversity program development and implementation, and professional development for diversity, equity, and inclusion leaders.

“While other organizations are addressing race relations, Martin University is distinctively qualified to be in the forefront of racial equality and inclusion because of its unique history,” said Huddleston.

Martin University is Indiana’s only Predominantly Black Institution of higher education and continues to serve low-income, minority and adult students.