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Funding by Area

Office of Native American and Indigenous Advancement

Elevate the Office of Native American and Indigenous Advancement

NAU is committed to becoming the nation’s leading university in serving Native American and Indigenous Peoples. Today, Indigenous students represent more than six percent of NAU’s student body—more than twice the national average.

Our commitment stems from the belief that higher education should open doors of opportunity and empower the next generation of leaders, scholars, and changemakers.

Through the Office of Native American and Indigenous Advancement (ONAIA), NAU is strengthening partnerships with Tribal Nations, expanding place-based student success programs, and creating new opportunities for learning across disciplines. Your investment sustains this momentum, helping Indigenous students thrive at NAU and graduate ready to make a lasting difference in their communities and beyond

Three young people seated on a bench, laughing and conversing. In the background, a public bus and other buildings are visible, suggesting an outdoor setting. The individuals appear to be students or young adults.

Elevate access for students

Scholarships

Fundraising goal: $50,000

Every student deserves access to an excellent education—but for many, cost remains the greatest barrier. At NAU, 97 percent of students receive financial aid, ensuring that cost never stands in the way of ambition. A gift of $50,000 supports one student for an academic year; $500,000 supports ten. Your generosity opens doors and gives students the freedom to focus on learning.

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Vice President for the Office of Native American and Indigenous Advancement looking at sign

Elevate academic excellence

Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals

Fundraising goal: $10 million

For more than 30 years, the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP) has been a trusted partner for Tribal Nations across the U.S., providing training, technical assistance, and applied research on environmental stewardship. From air quality monitoring to climate adaptation, ITEP equips Native communities with the expertise and resources needed to protect lands, waters, and people. Your investment will expand ITEP’s reach, grow faculty and staff capacity, and strengthen environmental decision-making for generations to come.

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Room with people seated at tables, displaying a movie or presentation on a large screen at the front. Several individuals are engaged in various activities, including eating and conversing. Text on the screen reads "Rich Charlie".

Elevate academic excellence

Cultural activities at the Center for Native American and Indigenous Futures

Fundraising goal: $10 million

Hosting more than 800 events each year, the Center for Native American and Indigenous Futures (CNAIF) is where culture, community, and education come together at NAU. From Elders’ talks to Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations, workshops, and film screenings, CNAIF programming provides education, fosters belonging, and strengthens the entire NAU community. Your support will sustain and grow these vital activities, creating opportunities for dialogue, pride in heritage, and shared learning from Indigenous knowledge.

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Elevate academic excellence

Institute for Native-serving Educators

Fundraising goal: $10 million

The Institute for Native-serving Educators (INE) partners with schools serving Indigenous students to create professional development that reflects Native histories, cultures, and values. Through collaborative workshops and mentorship, teachers gain the tools to improve outcomes for Native youth. Your support will broaden INE’s programming and expand partnerships with Tribal schools.

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Elevate the campus experience

CNAIF expansion

Fundraising goal: $45 million

Welcoming more than 7,000 visitors each year, the CNAIF is NAU’s heart for Native American and Indigenous student support, cultural celebration, and deep, lasting partnership with Tribal Nations. It’s where students find community, where traditions are honored, and where futures are shaped. Your transformational investment will create a new, state-of-the-art expanded facility designed to serve more students, host larger community events, and strengthen NAU’s role as a national leader in Indigenous higher education.

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