Programs ensure higher education opportunities

Observer Staff

1/8/2004 12:00:00 AM

The balanced spiritual, mental, physical and social wellness of a cultured individual revolves around wisdom and good judgment.

To ensure every opportunity for Tribal members in attaining their education and career objectives, the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and Higher Education offer several program prospects.

The annual Career Expo is just one example of this dedication as the event is in its 10th year of exhibition. Slated for Feb. 19 and 20 at the Mt. Pleasant Holiday Inn, Higher Education Coordinator Sharon Skutt said plans are underway to make the experience extra special.

The theme is "Honoring our ancestors' vision for education-Aankewidooying miinwaa mnaajitooying gitziinaanig ga-ndawendamowaad wii-zhiwebag wii-akinoomowind." All Michigan high school Native youth are invited to attend.

"We are so excited about celebrating the 10th anniversary of this outstanding event," Skutt said. "We are exceedingly proud of our Tribal member accomplishments and look forward to recognizing their achievements."

On Nov. 18, the Higher Education Hall of Fame was unveiled to highlight such educational triumphs.

"The theme for this year's expo is in direct relation to this showcase and our desire to honor our ancestors' vision for education," Skutt added. "Those recognized at this momentous event understand the importance of continuing their education as a means to securing the future of our Tribe. We invite and encourage others to do the same."

The showcase contains plaques acknowledging Tribal members who have achieved academic success by completing certificate and degree programs dating back to the early 1900s. Memorabilia representative of college days are also on display.

"Career Expo provides the students with an opportunity to meet with various departments to visit with college and university representatives, as well as to explore different career choices," explained Skutt.

Tribal departments wishing to participate by setting up a booth on Feb. 19 must register by Jan. 30.

The Tribal Scholarship Program, offered through Higher Education, is available to every Tribal member who is interested in enrolling at any college, university or vocational/technical school in the country.

For juniors and seniors in high school, the Youth Leadership Program is designed as a bridge program for those entering college who want to get a jump start on core classes. Students are allowed to enroll in up to six credit hours per semester. Higher Education will pay for student fees, books and supplies, as well as provide students with a stipend for every hour spent in class.

Students in the Youth Leadership Program are also eligible for the Academic Incentive Award Program. Those who excel by achieving a 3.0 gpa or better in any of their classes will receive a monetary award during the Eagle Spirit Awards Banquet in June.

Another program is the Tribal Leadership Program that allows students to receive valuable hands-on experience while they are enrolled full-time at a public college or university in Michigan. Students in this program are considered regular full-time employees and receive a full benefits package as well as earned leave time. Students must be at junior or senior status and working on a bachelor, master or doctoral program.

On Aug. 5, 2003, Tribal Council approved a newly developed program for students pursuing two-year degrees. The Career Development Program provides students with the same opportunities as the Tribal Leadership Program. Students in either of these programs work as interns in Tribal departments that relate to their fields of study.

Additional information may be obtained through the Higher Education Department by contacting Sharon or Debbie at (989) 775-4506.