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Updated: December 13, 2024 @ 11:21 am
NonStop Local Senior Multimedia Journalist
BILLINGS, Mont. – Montana State University Billings is pleased to announce the launch of the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship, a new initiative made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor. These scholarships aim to support Native students pursuing degrees in education, emphasizing advancing educational opportunities within tribal communities and revitalizing Indigenous languages.
“Language is central to cultural identity, and education empowers our communities. These scholarships ease financial burdens and create opportunities for Indigenous students to preserve their languages and traditions, fostering a future where Indigenous voices thrive,” said Sunny Real Bird, director of American Indian Outreach at MSU Billings.
The Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarships are dedicated to Indigenous students committed to creating positive change through education. This initiative underscores MSUB’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities by fostering a new generation of educators who will inspire and uplift tribal nations.
The scholarship awards for this initiative include:
Empowering Indigenous Graduate Educators Scholarship: Two awards at $5,000 each and one award at $4,000
Empowering Indigenous Undergraduate Educators Scholarship: Three awards at $2,000 each
Below are statements from two of the five recipients, reflecting the scholarship’s impact on their journeys:
“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for your generous support of the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship. As a recipient, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this award has provided me.
Financing my education has required a combination of financial aid, grants, and student loans. This scholarship significantly reduces my financial burdens, enabling me to focus more fully on my studies and less on the worry of expenses.
Thank you not only from me but also from my son. Your support of Montana State University Billings students truly makes a difference.
As a single mother, this scholarship eases the financial pressures of continuing my education and brings me closer to achieving my goal of graduating. I am eager to return to my community and provide children with a quality education from a teacher who understands and values their unique backgrounds and experiences.” – Tiana Iron Horse
“Over the past two years, I have faced significant challenges, including a house fire, the passing of my dad, and my mom suffering a stroke. Receiving this scholarship is a true blessing, and I am incredibly grateful for your support.
Thank you to all the donors who recognize and invest in causes like this. Your generosity allows me to complete graduate school without the added stress of financial concerns.
With my wife and me expecting our son this summer, I can now focus on finishing my courses and preparing for his arrival, knowing that my graduate expenses are covered.” – Kenneth Whitehead
These scholarships represent a transformative step forward in MSUB’s support of Indigenous students, providing them with resources that help them achieve their academic and professional aspirations. Community members, partners, and allies are invited to help raise awareness and encourage eligible students to apply for these opportunities to support Indigenous education and foster meaningful change for future generations.
For more information about the MSUB Native American Achievement Center, please contact Sunny Day Real Bird, director of American Indian Outreach, at sunnyday.realbird@msubillings.edu or 406-657-2144.
Learn more about MSUB scholarships.
NonStop Local Senior Multimedia Journalist
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