INDIANAPOLIS – Martin University is pleased to announce an exciting Homecoming Week that will focus on alumni but is open to current students and the community. Below are the events from October 16 to 23, with the date, time, and a brief description. Unless otherwise noted, the event will be held at the University, 2186 North Sherman Drive in Indianapolis.
“Homecoming 2023 at Martin University is not just another event – it’s a powerful celebration of our heritage, our community, and the unwavering spirit that defines us,” said Dr. Sean L. Huddleston, President of Martin University. “As Indiana’s only Predominantly Black Institution, we eagerly anticipate the return of our cherished alumni as well as attendance by family members and community friends.”
- City-Wide Unity Prayer Breakfast – Monday, October 16 at 9:00 a.m. in Martin’s Gathertorium
Diverse faith leaders across Indianapolis will convene for meaningful exchanges fostering unity and cooperation designed to focus on the importance of higher education within the black and brown community. This event is free but requires an advanced RSVP at www.martin.edu/homecoming.
- Brookside Park Community Service Project – Tuesday, October 17 at 9:00 a.m.
Alumni, students, and staff will come together to help beautify and clean up one of our community’s beloved spaces, Brookside Park, located at 3500 Brookside Parkway South.
- Barnes United Methodist Church Community Service Project – Tuesday, October 17 at 10:00 a.m.
For community members in need of support, Martin University students will volunteer to sort and pack food pantry boxes and put together toiletry bags at Barnes United Methodist Church, 900 W. 30th Street.
- Distinguished Alumni Awards Reception – Thursday, October 19 at 7:00 p.m. in Martin’s Gathertorium
The Second Annual Awards Reception will honor Brigadier General Felicia Brokaw, Indiana National Guard’s first black female general. Light refreshments will be served. The event is free but requires an advanced RSVP at www.martin.edu/homecoming.
- First Lady’s Tea – Friday, October 19 at 11:30 a.m. at the Carmichael Hotel
Martin University First Lady Tosha Huddleston will host lunch and an inspiring conversation at the luxurious Hotel Carmichael, 1 Carmichael Square, Carmel. It will feature a moderated conversation led by award-winning fashion and interior designer Alpha Blackburn with Danisha Ferguson, the Founder and CEO of Indiana Fashion Foundation, and International Fashion Designer Korto Momolu.
- Community Access Fair – Saturday, October 20 at 10:00 a.m. in Martin’s Gathertorium
Sponsored by the National Center for Racial Equity and Inclusion (NCREI) at Martin University, the event is aimed at fostering partnerships, disrupting systemic barriers, and connecting the community to companies, organizations, and allies entrenched in work that combats systemic issues. Assistance will be provided in education, housing, criminal justice, employment, health entities, and more. The event is free but requires an advanced RSVP at www.martin.edu/homecoming.
- Blood Drive – Saturday, October 20 at 10:00 a.m. in Martin’s Gathertorium
Due to the prevalence of certain blood-related diseases that disproportionately affect black and brown communities, blood donations are essential for saving lives within our community. This event is sponsored by Versiti, who is “committed to helping save more lives.”
- Royal Gold Affair – Saturday, October 20 at 8:00 p.m. in Martin’s Gathertorium
This “party” will feature some of the hottest college R&B and Hip-Hop classics from one of Indy’s hottest DJs, DJ Pimp Cee, and will be hosted by Tedd Hardy. It is an age 21+ event and is open to the public. Dress code and security will be strictly enforced. Purchase tickets at www.martin.edu/homecoming.
- Sunday Evening Worship Service – Sunday, October 21 at 6:00 p.m. in Martin’s Gathertorium
The grand finale of the Homecoming festivities will be a spiritually uplifting service that promises to be an inspiring and soul-enriching event for fellow alumni, students, and friends. The Martin Sunday Service will be led by renowned guest pastor Rev. Dr. Kevin Cosby, whose words of wisdom and guidance have touched countless lives. Since 1979, Dr. Cosby has served as Senior Pastor of St. Stephen Church in Louisville, KY. In 2005, Dr. Cosby was named the 13th President of Simmons College of Kentucky.
Founded in 1977, Martin University is Indiana’s only Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) of higher education. It is steeped in a history of service, and its mission is to educate and develop diverse workforce-ready students in an inclusive, supportive, and collegiate environment. Martin University’s vision is to elevate the landscape while providing transformative opportunities, inclusive support, and service to our communities.
