By Daniel Kraker
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/knau/local-knau-918020.mp3
Flagstaff, AZ – NAU is home to 14 hundred Native American students from 62 tribes across the country. It consistently ranks in the top 5 universities in the country for the number of Native American students it graduates with Masters Degrees.
Mason Gerety, the Vice President for University Advancement at NAU, says the new center will serve both Native and non-native students.
"Really this is an opportunity to showcase Native American culture so all our students can learn about that important part of northern Arizona."
NAU has already raised 3 million dollars for the new center, including a two million dollar gift from the San Manuel Band of mission Indians in California.
One of the main goals of the new facility is to increase the retention of Native American students. Many who grow up on reservations have a tough time transitioning to university life. LuAnn Leonard directs the Hopi Education Endowment Fund and is a member of the state Board of Regents.
"They'll be able to come, enter the building, feel welcomed, hang out, receive services, hang out, study groups, it will all help in retention of these students, hopefully they will go on to graduate."
Construction on the new center will begin in October. It's expected to be open by next fall.