Community Connection – May 27, 2026 – Tina Cosby with James Patterson, Claire Rafford, Hyacinth Rucker and Cameron Benbree

**Celebrating Black Birders and Exploring the Financial Issues Behind Martin University’s Closure**

This week on the show, we’re talking about two fascinating topics that might not be on your radar. First, we’re celebrating Black Birders Week, a national week-long program dedicated to uplifting black nature enthusiasts and highlighting their visibility in the outdoors. Our guests, Hyacinth Rucker, Conner Prairie Senior Manager of PR & Communications and Cameron Benbree, Conner Prairie Community Engagement Specialist, join us to share their insights on this important initiative and how it’s making a difference in the community.

We also dive into a more serious topic, the financial issues behind Martin University’s closure. The Mirror Indy Higher Education reporter Claire Rafford shares her in-depth report on the financial problems that led to the university’s abrupt closure. We discuss the role of financial aid, the university’s reliance on federal funding, and the consequences of mismanagement. Our conversation raises more questions than answers, and we explore the potential for a class action lawsuit to uncover more information.

As we explore these topics, we’re reminded of the importance of accountability and transparency in institutions of higher education. We also highlight the need for more representation and inclusivity in the outdoors, particularly for black nature enthusiasts.

Tune in to hear the full conversation and learn more about Black Birders Week, the financial issues behind Martin University’s closure, and the importance of accountability in higher education. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that will leave you with more questions than answers.

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