Montana State University Billings is pleased to announce the launch of the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship, a new initiative made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor. These scholarships aim to support Native students pursuing degrees in education, emphasizing advancing educational opportunities within tribal communities and revitalizing Indigenous languages.

“Language is central to cultural identity, and education empowers our communities. These scholarships ease financial burdens and create opportunities for Indigenous students to preserve their languages and traditions, fostering a future where Indigenous voices thrive,” said Sunny Real Bird, director of American Indian Outreach at MSU Billings, regarding the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship.

These scholarships are dedicated to Indigenous students committed to creating positive change through education. This initiative underscores MSUB’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities by fostering a new generation of educators who will inspire and uplift tribal nations.

The awards for this initiative include:

Empowering Indigenous Graduate Educators Scholarship: Two awards at $5,000 each and one award at $4,000

Empowering Indigenous Undergraduate Educators Scholarship: Three awards at $2,000 each

Below are statements from two of the five recipients, reflecting the scholarship's impact on their journeys:

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for your generous support of the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship. As a recipient, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this award has provided me.

Financing my education has required a combination of financial aid, grants, and student loans. The Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship significantly reduces my financial burdens, enabling me to focus more fully on my studies and less on the worry of expenses.

Thank you not only from me but also from my son. Your support of Montana State University Billings students truly makes a difference.

As a single mother, this scholarship eases the financial pressures of continuing my education and brings me closer to achieving my goal of graduating. I am eager to return to my community and provide children with a quality education from a teacher who understands and values their unique backgrounds and experiences.” – Tiana Iron Horse, recipient of the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship

Read the full article about the Empowering Indigenous Educators Scholarship by Luca Battistotti at Bozeman Daily Chronicle.