Abstract
The Chickasaw Nation has advocated for their citizens' education since the late 1700s (Cowger & Caver, 2017). Understanding early on that colonizers would not be leaving their land, the Chickasaw people recognized that federal education plans designed for “civilization” needed to be repurposed as a tool for Tribal economic resilience, cultural preservation, and survival. Today, the Chickasaw Nation honors the past and provides for the future of their people by providing tutoring, connections, and scholarships, supplying $32 million in 2024 alone (Anoatubby, 2024). Most recently, the Chickasaw Alumni Association was launched to further build community and provide guidance for citizens. Through surveys and interviews of alumni, this research examined Chickasaw post-secondary students’ current perceived needs for continued resilience and connectedness. Data sources included a Likert scale survey sent to members of the Chickasaw Alumni association and interviews with four alumni. Findings include agreement (>85%) among respondents that the Chickasaw Nation is a place where people care about one another, belong, and where their future matters. A majority (80%) of respondents were aware of 13 of 19 supports provided by the Chickasaw Nation and 8 of these supports were being accessed by over 50% of respondents. Interview analysis revealed three major themes of connection, opportunity, and giving back. From the surveys and interviews, the report concludes with recommendations for scholarships and programs, and opportunities for further research regarding connecting citizens at-large.