Bridging Worlds: NC State’s Native American Student Association Champions Indigenous Culture and Student Support

The Native American Student Association at North Carolina State University serves as a vital hub, fostering a sense of community, providing academic support, and championing the rich heritage of indigenous peoples on campus and within the broader academic landscape. As a key organization for Native American students, NASA has evolved into a crucial safe space for students to connect, share experiences, and deepen their understanding of Indigenous culture.

The Foundation of Community and Culture at NC State

North Carolina is home to a significant indigenous population, comprising eight statutorily recognized tribes: Coharie, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Haliwa-Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi Band of Saponi Nation, Sappony, and Waccamaw Siouan. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and unique experiences within these communities, the Native American Student Association at NC State University was established to address the specific needs of Native American students. The organization actively promotes awareness of Native American cultures by sponsoring social activities and programs designed to facilitate academic and professional success. More than just a student group, the Native American Student Association aims to enrich the awareness of campus and surrounding communities, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds interested in learning about the indigenous peoples of this land.

Amplifying Indigenous Voices Through Events by the Native American Student Association

One of NASA’s most prominent contributions to campus life is its co-hosting of the annual NC State Powwow. This vibrant event, often held in partnership with Multicultural Student Affairs and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, is a celebration of indigenous culture, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and the wider community. The powwow features native business vendors, traditional drum groups, and diverse indigenous dance styles, offering a dynamic visual representation of the beauty and resilience of Native peoples. For Native communities, powwows originated as a crucial opportunity to unite and celebrate their identities and cultures, and the collegiate powwow at NC State extends this tradition, serving as a space for learning, engagement, and intertribal unity. It provides an accessible setting for non-Native members of the community to learn about Native culture in a respectful and educational environment.

Navigating the Landscape of Higher Education for Native American Students

The presence and success of organizations like the Native American Student Association are particularly critical given the persistent challenges faced by American Indian students in higher education. Nationwide, Native American students often experience lower enrollment, retention, and graduation rates compared to their non-Native peers. Barriers can include inadequate academic preparation from underfunded high schools, lack of administrative support, faculty misconceptions, and feelings of isolation and stereotyping on predominantly white campuses. Financial constraints, including homelessness and food insecurity, also present significant obstacles, often dictating where students can apply and their ability to graduate. Many Native American students also carry the responsibilities of tribal citizenship and community obligations, which must be balanced with academic pursuits.

Fostering Support Systems and Inclusion for the Native American Student Association

In response to these challenges, NC State has developed initiatives such as “Native Space,” a Living and Learning Village established in 2016 to provide a supportive community for incoming Native first-year students. This initiative helps students advocate for themselves, foster connections with organizations like the Native American Student Association, and build a network for life after graduation. These efforts, alongside the work of the Native American Student Association, aim to create an inclusive environment where indigenous students feel seen, heard, and connected to their culture. Beyond NC State, broader initiatives like those supported by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) focus on increasing engagement with Native American and Indigenous communities, supporting student success through workshops, and promoting collaboration between institutions and tribal communities.

Conclusion

The Native American Student Association at NC State University plays an indispensable role in empowering indigenous students, preserving cultural heritage, and contributing to a more inclusive and understanding academic community. By offering a platform for cultural celebration, providing essential student support networks, and advocating for the needs of its members, the Native American Student Association illuminates the presence and contributions of Native American students, ensuring their voices are heard and their culture is celebrated within the university and beyond. Their ongoing work is a testament to the strength and resilience of indigenous communities in the American educational landscape, fostering a stronger campus community.