U of I Office of Tribal Relations Team
Welcome to the Office of Tribal Relations! We are dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, supporting Indigenous students and advancing research that honors and uplifts tribal communities. Our office provides resources, engagement opportunities and collaborative initiatives that empower students and promote respectful, impactful research with tribal nations. We’re here to support your journey, celebrate cultural diversity and create a space for shared learning and growth.
Tribal Affiliation: Nez Perce (Nimiipuu)
The Executive Director of Tribal Relations at the University of Idaho plays a pivotal role in building genuine, respectful connections with Native American Tribes across the Northwest. This position centers on fostering open, respectful dialogue that supports shared goals and deepens mutual understanding between the University and Tribal communities. A significant aspect of this role involves supporting faculty in collaborative projects with Tribal communities, ensuring that research and educational initiatives align with Tribal priorities and create value for both the University and its Tribal partners.
A key focus for the Executive Director is to create and manage programs that enhance the recruitment, retention and success of Native American students at the University of Idaho. This includes designing resources and support systems that contribute to students’ academic success, cultural engagement and overall well-being on campus. In coordination with various University departments, the Executive Director works to integrate Tribal priorities into institutional initiatives, furthering diversity, inclusion and cross-cultural awareness across campus and reinforcing a commitment to Tribal sovereignty and perspectives.
Through strategic planning and a dedication to partnership, the Executive Director cultivates long-term, respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with Tribal nations, advocating for diversity and inclusion at every level within the University. By serving as a bridge between the University and Tribal communities, this role embodies the University of Idaho’s mission to promote meaningful educational and cultural exchange, honoring Tribal identities and ensuring that interactions are both respectful and aligned with Tribal aspirations.
Program Coordinator
208-885-4212
Business Specialist
208-885-2557
Tribal Affiliation: Muscogee
The Director of Tribal Nations Student Affairs plays a crucial role in supporting Native American students’ academic, cultural and personal success. As a strong advocate, the director ensures Native voices and cultural needs are represented in university policies and collaborates with departments to address Native-specific issues, promoting a more inclusive environment.
A key responsibility is developing and overseeing programs and events that celebrate Native American culture, history and traditions, which foster a sense of community and belonging. The director also provides direct mentorship, academic guidance and personal support to students, connecting them to scholarships, internships and resources that support their academic and personal growth.
The director builds connections with local tribes, Native organizations and alumni to create a strong support network for students and foster relationships between the university and Native communities. Additionally, they manage the center’s staff, budget and resources, securing funding and ensuring that students receive quality, culturally responsive support.
Strategic planning is also central to the director’s role, as they set a vision for the center that aligns with the university’s mission and continuously adapt programs to meet students’ evolving needs. Altogether, the director serves as a vital link between Native students and the university, helping students feel valued, supported and connected to their heritage and the academic community.
Tribal Affiliation: Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
As the Program Coordinator for Tribal Nations Student Affairs at University of Idaho, I am responsible for designing, developing and implementing culturally responsive programming that benefits all university students, with a targeted emphasis on supporting the academic, cultural and social success of Native American students. These programs are crafted to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that acknowledges and celebrates Native American cultures while providing critical support for student success.
In addition to offering tailored resources and support to Native American students, my work also promotes broader cultural awareness within the university community, helping to foster an understanding of Native American traditions, histories and contemporary issues. My role includes collaborating with academic departments, student organizations and Tribal communities to ensure that Native American students have access to the tools, mentorship and opportunities needed to thrive academically and personally at University of Idaho.
Tribal Affiliation: Mexican American
As an academic retention specialist at University of Idaho, I focus on supporting Native American students through personalized academic monitoring and assistance. I meet with students to assess their academic progress, identify challenges and arrange for tutoring, mentoring and other necessary resources. I also oversee daily study tables to provide a structured and supportive learning environment.
I advise students on academic planning, including course selection, degree requirements and navigating university policies. Through one-on-one guidance, I help students address personal, social, cultural, financial and academic issues, serving as a mentor to build their confidence and develop essential skills for success.
A key part of my role is fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. I incorporate cultural values and traditions into programs and events while collaborating with tribal communities to facilitate students' transitions to university life. I also organize cultural events, workshops and activities to affirm students' cultural identities and foster a sense of belonging.
Additionally, I assist students in identifying and applying for scholarships, internships and career opportunities specifically for Native American students. I connect them with tailored university services, such as health and counseling resources, while maintaining relationships with tribal organizations to ensure access to external support.
To increase retention and graduation rates among Native American students, I develop and implement strategic initiatives in collaboration with faculty, staff and university administration. I monitor academic performance and retention data to identify trends and address barriers to student success.
Tribal Affiliation: Shoshone Paiute from the Duck Valley
As the Recruitment Specialist for Tribal Nations Student Affairs at University of Idaho, my role is to enhance enrollment, retention and overall success for students from the university’s 11 MOU Tribes, as well as all Native American students. This involves actively engaging with Tribal Nations, families and communities to create pathways to higher education, ensuring that students from these communities have the resources, support and guidance needed to succeed at U of I.
In addition to recruiting Native American students, my role supports ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with Tribal leaders and communities, working in alignment with the university’s mission and the established MOU with Tribal Nations. By connecting students with resources, academic support and opportunities for cultural and community engagement, I strive to contribute to a welcoming and inclusive campus environment that fosters academic and personal growth for all Native American students.