In January, Martin University, the only predominately-Black higher education institution in the state of Indiana, permanently closed its doors due to declining student enrollment and financial instability. While legal battles regarding the university’s abrupt closure remain ongoing, Eastern Star Church in Indianapolis has stepped in and purchased the former Martin University campus, according to a report from the Indianapolis Recorder.
Leaders at Eastern Star Church plan to use their new location to support the church’s ROCK Initiative, a community development project focused on housing, education, and financial literacy. As the church begins planning future housing construction projects, leaders have committed to keeping a dedicated founder’s room on the campus to preserve Martin’s historical legacy.
“We’re so excited to have the opportunity to come in and to preserve,” Eastern Star Church Executive Pastor Rev. Anthony Murdock told the Indianapolis Recorder. “I think this asset is a major asset in the African-American community, and so we wanted to maintain this asset in our community in Indianapolis.”
He continued, “We are continuing to pray for the advancement of Martin University. The work that they’ve done, that they are doing in the community, we thank God for all that they have done. As development plans move forward for the new ROCK Impact Center and surrounding properties, we will continue to trust God, pray faithfully, and work tirelessly to serve our community with excellence and purpose.”
