Native American Student Services' Welcome Event Draws Diverse Attendance at U of A

Tish Mindemann

Campus Welcome Event builds connections for Native American students.

The U of A Multicultural Center, the Native American Student Services and the Indigenous Employee Resource Group recently hosted a vibrant and engaging welcome event for students and staff. The event showcased the university's commitment to supporting its sizable Native American/Alaska Native student population, with 1,178 students enrolled for the fall 2024 semester. 

"The Native and Indigenous Student Welcome is a vital event that fosters community, connection and belonging for Native students as they begin their semester journey. By partnering with the Tribal Nations and working closely with the Multicultural Center, this event ensures that students feel supported by both their campus and cultural heritage," said Greg Jones (Shawnee Tribe), director of Native American Student Services. 

Among the attendees were students representing the Dinè, Cherokee and Choctaw Tribes. The event featured representatives from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Chickasaw Nation and Cherokee Nation and the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative. Discussions and engagement throughout the event highlight the collaborative efforts of tribal education and next generation programs to support Native American students.

Last year, Native American Student Services conducted research revealing a significant demographic insight: Washington County, Arkansas, the location of the U of A, has a Native American population comparable to Delaware County, Oklahoma. This finding was surprising because of the lack of any federally recognized tribes in Arkansas and emphasizes the importance of such events in fostering community and support.

One of the insights into the importance of student involvement was the recognition of student initiatives. Hayes Murphy, a member of the Choctaw Nation, received acknowledgement for his efforts in revitalizing stickball culture on campus, which prompted the organization of a stickball tournament featuring players from five states.

The event also included Andrea Rogers, a Cherokee writer and current U of A Ph.D. student, known for her two published books and two upcoming releases in October. Her presence added a literary dimension to the event, bridging cultural and educational experiences.

A surprising revelation was the presence of three additional Ph.D. and Ed.D. students whose research focuses on Native American studies and the experiences of Native students. Their participation underscores the academic commitment to advancing knowledge and support in these fields.

Join the Native American Student Services' next gathering from 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26. The event will focus on financial aid and career pathways. Find more info here: cglink.me/2uB/r386637.