Mission

The mission of the University of Idaho Native American Student Center (NASC) is to foster academic excellence and community empowerment by valuing and addressing the specific needs of U of I students connected to tribal nations. We are dedicated to honoring and promoting tribal sovereignty and identity, with a specific commitment to the 11 MOU tribes. In alignment with our land grant mission, we strive to create access to educational resources and opportunities, while fostering a place of belonging for all Indigenous students. Through our programs and initiatives, we empower students to engage with and advocate for their rights, traditions and futures, supporting the rich heritage and distinct perspectives of Indigenous communities.

History

The Native American Student Center (NASC) at University of Idaho was officially established in 2007, emerging from the vision and commitment of the Native American Advisory Board along with university faculty and staff who recognized the need for a dedicated space for Indigenous students. Their understanding of the unique challenges faced by Native American students — including cultural isolation, academic barriers and historically low enrollment and retention rates—drove the initiative to create a supportive environment focused on recruitment and retention. To further this mission, the establishment of a Native American Advisory Board has been integral in guiding the NASC's efforts, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of Native American students are actively represented and prioritized in all initiatives and programming.

The center aimed to foster a sense of belonging and cultural identity while providing resources tailored to the needs of Indigenous students. The NASC focused on community-building through cultural events, mentorship programs and academic support services designed to enhance student engagement and success. Faculty and staff actively collaborated with students to ensure that the center reflected their needs and aspirations, ultimately helping to recruit more Indigenous students and retain them through a strong support network that honors and upholds tribal sovereignty and celebrates cultural identity.

Services

The Native American Student Center offers a range of opportunities that support academic, cultural and personal growth, including:

• Cultural Events and Celebrations: Students can participate in events like powwows, heritage celebrations and traditional ceremonies that honor Native American culture and heritage.
• Academic and Career Support: The center provides resources like tutoring, mentorship programs and workshops focused on academic success, scholarships and career development tailored to Native American students' needs.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to connect with Native communities on- and off-campus, through partnerships, volunteering and service projects that support Indigenous causes.
• Leadership Development: The center often hosts programs and workshops that build leadership skills and prepare students to advocate for Indigenous rights and issues.
• Networking and Mentorship: Students can connect with Indigenous leaders, alumni and professionals through networking events, providing valuable mentorship and insight into various career paths.
• Workshops and Guest Speakers: The center regularly brings in speakers to discuss topics related to Indigenous identity, history and contemporary issues, offering a deeper understanding of Native American perspectives.
• Student Clubs and Organizations: Students can join Native American student associations, cultural clubs, or interest groups that provide a sense of community and shared purpose on campus.

These opportunities make the center a dynamic resource for students interested in exploring Indigenous culture, supporting tribal communities and building meaningful connections that extend beyond their academic experience.