Month: February 2017 Articles

Are tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) the result of de facto segregation? Currently in higher education there is considerable discussion about the value and challenges faced by our Nation’s historically black college and universities (HBCUs). While this debate rightly belongs squarely in all discussions about access and affordability and value of higher education, it neglects the experiences of American Indian and Alaska Native students and the colleges and universities that have emerged to serve them in a similar fashion.

We at the American Indian College Fund stand with people concerned about the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline in a peaceful way, based on our Native values of caring for the environment and each other. Our values are as relevant today as they were generations ago, based on the importance of the physical health of our citizens and the economic health of our nation. These are the values we incorporate in the education of our tribal college students.

Author’s Note: This throwback tale is a testament of how things have changed and how they have stayed the same. Reminiscing reminds me to find humor every day. College life as a mom of twins doesn’t slow down, in fact it’s much like a tornado. So even when the twins, now in their terrible twos, hit hard, I am the foundation that this home is built on. Memories such as the story that follows provide reassurance.

American Indian College Fund President and CEO Cheryl Crazy Bull (Sicangu Lakota) was one of two women American Indian leaders honored at the Capitol Hilton in Washington D.C. by the National Indian Women’s “Supporting Each Other” Inc. honoring lunch.