Tribal Resources
Tribal Resources
NASNTI REACH
The NASNTI REACH Program provides Native American and Pell-eligible students with research internships, faculty mentoring, student employment, distance learning, advising, tutoring, and other educational opportunities. We also offer cultural activities each semester to promote awareness and help students build connections. Our goal is to support students so they can succeed and thrive in higher education.
Native American Academic Services (NAAS)
The Native American Academic Services (NAAS) at East Central University is dedicated to supporting the academic, personal, and cultural success of Native American and Indigenous students. Our mission is to foster a welcoming environment that celebrates Native identity while providing the resources and guidance students need to thrive at ECU and beyond.
Native American Advisory Council
The Native American Advisory Committee at East Central University brings together staff and faculty members who are and/or work with Indigenous communities and/or Indigenous students. We foster networks and build collaborations to optimize partnership and programming opportunities in culturally appropriate and respectful ways, thereby, increasing our effectiveness at recruiting and retaining Indigenous staff, faculty, and students; ensuring community based participatory efforts; building Indigenous community capacity; supporting awareness of Indigenous contributions at campus events. Contact Traci Crossland, M.Ed, NASNTI REACHE Director.
Native American Student Association (NASA)
The purpose of this organization shall be to provide social, cultural, academic sport, and enrichment for ECUs, Native Americans, and other students who are interested in further understanding of promoting Native American issues. Nasa also seeks to interact and partner with other universities, clubs, organizations, or travel entities in order to serve the greater community. Contact Destany Schafer-Morgan, Assistant Professor & Internship Director, Department of Professional Programs & Human Services.
Native American Studies
The Native American Studies program, rooted in the liberal arts tradition, emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication. Students study Native histories, cultures, governments, and current issues, gaining a strong foundation for careers in education, public service, law, research, and community leadership. This interdisciplinary program encourages thoughtful engagement with Native experiences and applies that knowledge in real-world settings. Highlights include a focus on sovereignty, policy, cultural preservation, research skills, and flexible online learning options to fit diverse student needs.
Scholarships & Assistance
ECU Foundation - Native American Studies students at ECU can apply for scholarships to help with college costs. These scholarships make it easier for students to focus on their studies and culture. Details about eligibility and applying are available to support student success.
Chickasaw Nation Grants, Scholarships and Incentives for College Students
Chickasaw Nation Student Support
Oklahoma Indian Legal Studies (OILS)
Legal Studies partners with Oklahoma Indian Legal Services to provide the Native American Legal Clinic. Each semester, five Legal Studies students work as paralegals in the clinic. The clinic provides services to qualified Native Americans as well as ECU students and staff. Contact Christine Pappas, J.D., Ph.D.,Chair and professor of Political Science and Legal Studies in the Department of Law, Politics and Society
Tribal Summit
Join the 2025 Tribal Summit and share bold, creative proposals that advance Native education through practice, partnership, and Indigenous knowledge.