MSI Cuts Create Barriers for Indigenous Learners
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Federal cuts to grant funding for minority-serving institutions undermine legal and moral obligations to support Native learners and tribal communities. Many Native students rely on programs funded by these grants for tutoring, mentoring, and academic retention supports, which are now at risk. Losing these resources threatens retention, graduation rates, workforce preparation, and tribal nation building for Indigenous students. The author urges restoring and sustaining investment in the full ecosystem of Native-serving colleges and universities to strengthen Indigenous communities and fulfill treaty responsibilities.
Originally published: January 20, 2026
Author: Heather J. Shotton
Position: President
Institution: Fort Lewis College
Published by: Inside Higher Ed