Native Forward Scholars Fund

Moments from our 2026 Empowering Scholars Summit! 🧡

Over the weekend, Native Forward scholars, Team Leads, Staff, and Partners came together to foster meaningful connections, engage in important conversations about Native higher education, and strengthen the community that supports Native scholars across the country.

From inspiring student speaker sessions to share meals, new friendships and plenty of laughs along the way, this year’s Summit was a reminder of what is possible when Native students are supported and celebrated.

Thank you to every scholar, presenter, leader, staff member, and supporter who helped make this experience so special. We head into the week energized and inspired for all that is to come.

A special thank you to our sponsors for helping make this year’s Summit a success. With your support, Native students are able to come together in this community, continue to pursue their educational goals, and carry that knowledge and inspiration forward. Thank you!

Cherokee Nation Turquoise Sky Group .stanley and First American Petroleum!