Martin University will hold an in-person commencement ceremony on Saturday, August 15 at noon. Some aspects of the ceremony will be changed or omitted in order to observe safe social distancing practices. They include the omission of the usual processional, masks being worn by participants and the event being held outdoors at its campus located at 2186 North Sherman Drive.
In addition to confirming degrees to graduates, Martin University will confer honorary doctorates to Dr. Katrice Albert, Mr. Dennis Bland, Esq. and Dr. Gene Sease.
“While we have unique circumstances, we felt it was important to hold this year’s commencement live instead of virtual in order to fully recognize the accomplishments of our students,” said Dr. Sean Huddleston, President of Martin University. “Additionally, we are delighted to honor Katrice Albert, Dennis Bland and Gene Sease, all of whom are outstanding community leaders.”
Dr. Katrice Albert is Founder and Managing Member of Third Eye Consulting Group. She also serves as a diversity and inclusion consultant for St. Joseph’s Academy where she leads the school’s work toward achieving inclusive excellence. Previously, she was Executive Vice President of Inclusion and Human Resources for the NCAA. She also led diversity, inclusion, and equity strategies with the University of Minnesota and Louisiana State University.
Mr. Dennis Bland, Esq. has served as President for the Center for Leadership Development (CLD) for 20 years, an Indianapolis non-profit organization dedicated to empowering African American youth for academic and career success. He was also an instructor at the Center until last year. Previously, he practiced law for seven years, specializing in medical malpractice litigation and insurance law. His passion is driven by a concern for plight of African American youth and community.
Dr. Gene Sease is Chairman of Sease, Gerig & Associates, a consulting management and public relations firm. He served as President and Chancellor of the University of Indianapolis from 1968-1989. He has been integral in facilitating important partnerships in Indianapolis that led to the formation of Martin University and to the expansion of cable TV, cellular phone service and many other ventures.
At the commencement, 40 undergraduate students will receive bachelor’s degrees in assorted fields, such as Criminal Justice, Biology, and Business Administration while 28 will be awarded master’s degrees in Community Psychology and Urban Ministry Studies. The class of 2020 is one of the University’s largest graduating classes in recent years.
Martin University’s Mission is to provide excellence in educating and developing traditional and non-traditional students in an inclusive, supportive and healthy collegiate environment.