Davids Introduces Bipartisan Legislation Recognizing Importance of Tribal Colleges and Universities

This week, Representative Sharice Davids introduced legislation designating the week of February 3, 2025 as “National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week.” The resolution recognizes the importance of these institutions to the economic, educational, and social wellbeing of Indian Country. Davids serves as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and was one of the first two Native women elected to Congress.

“Tribal Colleges and Universities, including Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas, provide unique educational opportunities for Native and non-Native students, and support the communities they serve through entrepreneurial and equivalency programs,” said Davids. “These institutions are critical because they develop our workforce capacity with knowledge and skills grounded in cultural traditions and values. I am proud to lead my colleagues in re-introducing this legislation.”

“The American Indian Higher Education Consortium appreciates Representative Davids’ support for designating the week of February 3rd as National Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) Week and recognizing the unique relationship TCUs have with the federal government as extensions of the Tribal Nations that charter them,” said Ahniwake Rose, President and CEO, American Indian Higher Education Consortium. “The TCUs will meet in Washington, D.C., the 3rd through the 7th with a summit focused on ‘Building our Futures, Strengthening our Workforce.’ We encourage everyone to celebrate this week with us and learn more about our accredited TCUs.”

This resolution recognizes the 34 accredited Tribal colleges and universities, which serve students from more than 230 federally recognized Indian Tribes, operating on 90 campuses across 16 states. Similar legislation previously passed Congress multiple times with unanimous support from both parties.