Native American Students
Since opening its doors in 1909, East Central University has been fully committed to the academic success of its students. Providing Oklahoma with quality, accredited degree programs, our university is proud to celebrate the large Native American population which it serves. We offer financial aid programs, heritage scholarships and supportive academic services to eligible Native American students, both on campus and online.
Native American Academic Services
Committed to supporting our Native American students through every step of the ECU experience, we offer a variety of free student service programs.
- Academic advisement and enrollment
- Retention efforts
- Native American and tribal scholarship assistance
- Referrals to on-campus and community resources
- Liaison between the University and tribal programs
- Cultural learning opportunities
- Student advocacy
Hays Native American Study Center
The Hays Native American Study Center serves as an educational environment for Chickasaw Nation courses, a central meeting place for Native American students and the hub of all Native American activities on campus. Located in room 322 in the Horace Mann building, the center is named in honor of Chickasaw legislator, Amos H. Hays and his nephew, Daniel Hays, who donated the land on which East Central University was built. Open to all students, the center offers diverse opportunities to explore and learn about Native American culture.
Visit WebsiteStudent Support Contact
To contact the Native American Services Department at ECU, please call or email:
Shawna Case
Native American Services
Director, Academic Advisor
scase@ecok.edu
580-559-5671
Native American Studies Scholarship
Students pursuing Native American Studies degree programs may apply for the Briles Scholarship, the Dr. Tom Cowger Native American Studies Scholarship and the Higginbotham Family Native American Scholarship. Each program is designed to support the academic success of Native American students and to promote the advancement of Native American culture.
Full-time students enrolled in spring or fall semesters may apply. All Native American Studies scholarship recipients are selected by the department, with final approval by the ECU Foundation Scholarship Committee. To learn more about program requirements and how you can benefit from a scholarship, please visit the Native American Studies Scholarship page.
Visit WebsiteGrants for Native American Students
There are a variety of grants available to Native American students pursuing a degree at ECU. After submitting your application for enrollment, you’ll be contacted by one of our expert tuition planners who will help you learn about and apply for grants and financial aid programs that you qualify for. Before discussing your options with a tuition planner, get started by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Available Grants:
- Federal PELL
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
- Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG)
- Tribal Grants
Career Center
The ECU Career Center provides educational services, student learning opportunities and programs enhancing the overall experience for those we serve.
Visit WebsiteAcademic Success Center
ECU’s Academic Success Center provides students with a variety of programs designed to promote lifelong learning. Through the ASC, students can receive advising and enrollment services, resource referrals, writing assistance, tutoring and Native American academic services.
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