"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - New Cherokee Nation Scholarship

TAHLEQUAH, Oklahoma - The Cherokee Nation is accepting applications for a new scholarship designed to provide scholarships for selected Cherokee students who are upper-division undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Cherokee Nation Directed Studies at a partner university.

The purpose of the Cherokee Directed Studies Scholarship Program (CNDSSP) is to provide financial assistance to deserving Cherokee Nation citizens pursuing higher education in a specific study area aimed at strengthening the Cherokee Nation government and economy.

“This program allows us to create our own resources for the tasks facing tribal governments,” said Principal Chief Chad Smith.

The scholarship assists in covering the cost of tuition, books, fees, room/board, and approved required equipment. Each student is expected to complete courses in a Cherokee Summer Institute at a placement site designated by the Cherokee Nation during the summer following each year of financial assistance.

In addition, each student is required upon graduation to serve with pay at a placement site determined by Cherokee Nation for a period of at least two years.

“The Directed Studies Program is an excellent opportunity for students to capitalize on obtaining a higher education degree and giving back to the Cherokee Nation by attending the Summer Institutes and working for two years after graduation,” said Dr. Neil Morton, Education Services Group Leader.

To qualify, an applicant must be a citizen of the Cherokee Nation who resides within the fourteen-county jurisdictional area or contiguous counties. The applicant must be a full time student already accepted in a professional, Masters or upper level Bachelor’s program/school, with an approved major degree plan on file.

Upon acceptance, participants must submit official transcripts at the end of each semester and maintain a grade point average that is in good standing with host school. Additionally participants will attend the Cherokee Summer Institute as required and must sign an agreement to work for Cherokee Nation for two years after graduation.

The CNDSSP selection committee will evaluate each applicant in the following areas: 1) whether the applicant’s field of study meets the need of a Cherokee Nation Directed Study program from approved list, 2) academic performance, 3) standardized test performance, 4) involvement and leadership in a tribal community, 5) leadership and excellence in extra-curricular activities. Preference will be given to those who speak, read and/or write the Cherokee language.

To request an application or for more information, contact CNDSSP coordinator Lisa Trice-Turtle, phone: 918-453-5000 (ext.4991), or Mandy Scott, phone: 918-453-5000 (ext.3841).