July 13, 2022
Martin University President Dr. Sean Huddleston was honored for his exceptional efforts in education by Eric J. Holcomb at the Governor’s Awards Reception, held at the Indiana Convention Center in conjunction with the 51st Indiana Black Expo (IBE) Summer Celebration yesterday afternoon.
The reception acknowledged the outstanding achievements of African Americans throughout the state. The Governor’s Awards are sponsored by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC), the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, and the Indiana Department of Administration.
As part of the presentation, Huddleston’s long and successful career in higher education at a variety of institutions across the country was highlighted. This includes his focus on leading institutional efforts that create conditions of success for nontraditional students and those who have been underrepresented and underserved historically.
Also mentioned was Huddleston’s steadfast leadership at Martin University which has made a tremendous impact through initiatives that have increased new student enrollment, improved student retention, and improved the university’s finances through a new diversified revenue model.
A student was quoted as saying, “You could feel and see everyone wanting to work hard based on how much faith he had in the students… Despite the odds that were once set against us all, he believed and knew we would beat them.” It was said that his efforts to improve the quality of education, access to resources, and the financial development of the university have had a major impact on students and will leave a legacy for future generations.
The awards recognize some of Indiana’s unsung heroes who have made significant contributions to increasing collaboration and understanding between all Hoosiers. Remarks were made by the Governor as part of the Indiana Black Expo’s Minority Business Conference.
Five others were also honored across diverse fields including entrepreneurship and civil rights. They were: DuJuan McCoy, Owner, President, & CEO of Circle City Broadcasting, Achievement in Business & Entrepreneurship; Robert Taylor, President of Elkhart Chapter of Indiana Black Expo (IBE), Next Level” Leadership Award; Mya Smith-Edmonds, McDonald's Franchise Owner, Reverend Charles Williams Award; Dr. Janet Seabrook, CEO Community HealthNet, Sam Jones Trailblazer Award; and Tracy Richardson, Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC), Harold O. Hatcher Award.
The Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) enforces the civil rights laws of the State of Indiana. It investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodation, credit and education. It also educates organizations, companies, landlords, associations, and individuals on their rights and responsibilities under Indiana Civil Rights Laws and the mission to eradicate discrimination.
Founded in 1977, Martin University is Indiana’s only Predominantly Black Institution of higher education. It is steeped in a history of service and open to a diverse population of students. Martin’s mission is to elevate the landscape while providing transformative opportunities, inclusive support, and service throughout its communities.
