Our guide offers strategies for colleges to foster Native American student success and insights for Native American students seeking a supportive on-campus environment.
Support programs for Native American college students can help them confidently face any obstacles they encounter, such as financial challenges, lack of representation, and feelings of isolation. These hurdles deter many Indigenous students from earning degrees.
According to the Postsecondary National Policy Institute analysis of 2021 data, Native American student enrollment and degree completion rates are significantly below national averages:
- Only 28% of Native Americans aged 18-24 are enrolled in college, compared to 38% of the general population.
- 16.8% of Native American adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to 35.7% of the U.S. population overall.
Higher education institutions can—and should—do more to help Native students thrive. Below are six impactful strategies colleges can implement to increase Native American student success, serving as both a roadmap for institutions and a checklist for Indigenous students seeking supportive academic environments.
1. Access to Native American Scholarships and Financial Literacy Programs
Financial barriers are among the most significant obstacles for Native American students. To support these students, colleges can combine traditional financial aid with dedicated scholarships and financial education initiatives.
- Native American Scholarships: Offer dedicated scholarships for Native students. This can include a curated list of external Native American scholarships in the financial aid office, student resource center, or website to make resources easily accessible.
- Emergency Funds: Unexpected expenses can disrupt a student’s education. Provide emergency funds for last-minute expenses so students don’t have to pause their studies.
- Financial Literacy Workshops: Tailor workshops to the unique financial circumstances of Native American students.
- Additional Financial Assistance: Consider services like campus food pantries and housing resources, as well as helping connect students with public assistance to alleviate financial strain.
2. Cultural Spaces That Foster Belonging
A dedicated space for Native American students can transform their on-campus experience. They may find it less intimidating to ask for help, which can reduce feelings of isolation and increase engagement. In addition, Indigenous students can participate in cultural events or student groups so they feel connected to their peers and school.
Other benefits of a Native American-focused cultural center include:
- Tailored academic advising, tutoring, and mentorship programs.
- Opportunities to celebrate culture through events and traditions.
- Resources for scholarship and financial aid guidance.
- Space for student-led organizations that foster connection and leadership.
- Staff who can provide culturally relevant support and guidance in managing homesickness, mental health, and more.
3. Native American Studies Courses and Programs
Academic programs focused on Native American studies can be a powerful way for colleges to support Native students while educating the wider campus community. These opportunities empower Native students with a sense of pride and identity while educating all students about the contributions and complex histories of Indigenous peoples.
- Courses and Degree Programs: Establish Native American Studies classes, majors, or minors to give all students an opportunity to study Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives. Schools can even connect coursework to local tribal communities and organizations through field projects.
- Learning From Leaders: Invite Native elders and community leaders to guest lecture in courses or through campus events. This offers Native and non-Native students avenues to listen and learn from Indigenous voices.
4. Native American Representation in Faculty and Leadership
By hiring more Native faculty and placing Native voices in leadership roles, colleges send a clear message: “You belong here.” It reinforces a Native student’s sense of belonging and the college’s commitment to inclusion. Representation also means decision-makers are more likely to understand and prioritize the unique needs of Native students.
Schools should consider the following options to increase Indigenous professors and leaders on their campus:
- Hiring Initiatives: Actively recruit Native American faculty and provide professional development to retain Native staff.
- Community Engagement: Encourage Native faculty to mentor students and sponsor Native-focused clubs and events, creating additional layers of support.
- Highlight Representation: Feature Indigenous faculty, administrators, and student leaders in college marketing and events to celebrate their contributions and make them more visible across campus.
5. Partnerships With Tribal Communities
Working with local Native American nations and tribes signifies a college's commitment to building community engagement, increasing ties to local Indigenous individuals and organizations, and enhancing educational opportunities for students. Ways colleges can support Native students include:
- Collaborative Programs: Work with Native nations to develop educational programs that align with tribal values and priorities, such as land management or energy solutions.
- Liaison Roles: Appoint representatives dedicated to building and maintaining relationships with tribal communities.
- Shared Events: Host events that bring together college and tribal communities, allowing for shared cultural celebrations, discussions, and workshops.
These partnerships not only benefit Native students but also create pathways for prospective students from local tribes to explore higher education.
6. Acknowledgement of Indigenous Lands and Their History
Acknowledging Native lands and histories is an essential way to recognize the college’s location and its cultural significance. Some institutions offer a land acknowledgment on their website, but deeper, action-oriented initiatives can have a more substantial impact.
- Land Acknowledgments in Practice: Integrate land acknowledgments into campus practices and ceremonies.
- Language and Historical Preservation: Provide educational programs on local tribal histories and Native language preservation.
- Community Involvement: Participate in or host local tribal cultural events, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Explore Native American Support at San Juan College
Indigenous students may want to consider what type of Native-specific support colleges offer, from scholarships to advising and degree programs to student activities and organizations. At San Juan College (SJC), 34% of students are Native American. We are first in the nation for awarding certificates to Native American students and third in awarding associate degrees.
Students can find support through our Native American Center, a welcoming community that guides students from application to graduation. The Center provides free services such as:
- Admission Assistance: Get help navigating the application process and signing up for our Native American new student orientation.
- Academic and Personal Advisement: Learn how to build your class schedule and receive guidance about any personal issues with no judgment.
- Native American Scholarship Resources: Find financial aid opportunities specific to Indigenous students.
- On-Campus Student Housing: Our student housing options are a convenient alternative to commuting to campus by car.
SJC also sponsors cultural presentations, Native guest lectures, and trips to Indigenous cultural sites, fostering a strong connection to Native heritage. Annual events, like the Ms. Indigenous San Juan College Pageant and our Annual Powwow, celebrate tradition and are open to all.
You can also enroll in our Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Native Studies. Explore Indigenous history and culture from Native perspectives to deepen your connection to the culture and become a leader and advocate for the community.
Additionally, our Tribal Energy Management Seminar Series provides insight into the intersections of government, industry, and Native American communities on energy projects within Indian Country, equipping you to make a meaningful impact in this growing field.
Take Your Next Step With San Juan College
At San Juan College, you’ll find top-notch academics and a community dedicated to Native American student success. Let us help you reach your goals and celebrate your heritage every step of the way.
