Muscogee Creek Nation College Opens Its Doors

Friday, May 4th 2007, 10:51 am

By: News On 6

The Muscogee Creek Nation is opening the door to the future by establishing its own tribal college. The tiny but growing campus hosted an open house Friday. News On 6â€™s Heather Lewin reports itâ€™s promoting its educational plan, "academic achievement with Native values".

â€œIt's so wonderful,â€ said board of regents chairwoman Ramona Mason. â€œIt's a dream come true."

With a brand new building and big ideas, the Muscogee Nation is celebrating launching its own college, one tailored to Native American students.

"Of all the Native Americans that enroll in higher education, only 2% graduate. That's only 2 out of 100. That's pretty sad. But if they go to a tribal college, it goes up to 67, 70%," said Mason.

Mason says many students who leave home simply suffer from a disconnect from the life they're used to and give up.

"We understand that our students have a connection to their homes and ceremonial activities,â€ said Mason. â€œBecause we're all Muscogee people in the college, they have a connection when they walk in."

We spoke to the graduating class of 2006, he agrees.

â€œOften times it's a challenge to blend in with a state institution or a private institution," said student Jeff Fife.

Fife holds a special honor at the school.

"I am actually the first graduate of the college of the Muscogee Nation," said Fife.

They're starting out small, but quickly growing. Next semester will incorporate a media learning center, including a brand new library. The college offers degrees in police science, language, gaming, tribal services and Native American studies. Preserving the language is a major focus. Meetings and other events are conducted in traditional Mvskoke.

School officials say the goal is for their students to stand equal with any other graduate from higher education.

"It's a privilege, and it's an honor, and it's a responsibility because we're doing the foundation now, and as the years go, the foundation has to be strong so that it will hold what happens in the future for our people," Mason said.

Casino revenue makes up part of the school's funding. Because they're still seeking accreditation, classes are held and diplomas are issued as a joint venture with OSU. Officials say in a few years they will build a new campus and stand on their own.

For more information about the College of Muscogee Nation, click here.

Watch the video: Muskogee Creek Nation Opens Its Own Tribal College