The University of Oregon proudly continues to offer in-state tuition benefits to enrolled members of the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation regardless of their current state residency. The Residency by Aboriginal Right Program was first offered in 2001 to 44 tribes who have aboriginal territories within the State of Oregon that pre-date 1850. Out-of-state students will pay in-state tuition, a $20,000 savings each academic year.
“All high school graduates should go to college. It’s not a choice. It’s a requirement. Our ancestors sacrificed and survived so that we would have the choices we do today,” said Jason Younker, UO Assistant Vice President and Advisor to the President for Government-to-Government Relations and member of the Coquille Indian Tribe. “We should honor their sacrifices.”
The UO offers Bachelor’s and graduated degrees through 2 72 academic programs. As members of the Association of American Universities, they are one of only 36 public universities committed to scientific exploration and interdisciplinary research.
There are 162 Native Americans enrolled at the UO from across the nation, and 2 7 are members of Oregon tribes. The Many Nations Longhouse opened in 2005 and is home for the Native American Student Association, the Native American Law Students Association and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society. The UO’s Mother’s Day Powwow is one of the largest tribal celebrations in Oregon.