HIGHER EDUCATION HOSTS COLLEGE FAIR TO INSPIRE FUTURE STUDENTS
By Harrison J. Bahe
On May 2, 2025, the Higher Education Office hosted a College Fair at the Fort McDowell Recreation Center, where seven institutions showcased their academic offerings to attendees eager to advance their education. Represented at the fair were Scottsdale Community College, Grand Canyon University, Paradise Valley Community College, the University of Phoenix, Arizona State University, the East Valley Institute of Technology, and United National Indigenous Tribal Youth.
Scottsdale Community College (SCC)
Located on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC), SCC offers tuition-free classes to tribal members with a valid SRPMIC tribal ID. The college features an American Indian Program (AIM), housed in its Indigenous Cultural Center, which hosts biweekly student socials and promotes cultural awareness.
SCC also supports students through scholarship opportunities geared toward Indigenous learners and offers several early college access initiatives. The Hoop of Learning program allows Indigenous high school students to earn college credits, while the Salt River Jr. ACE Program introduces 5th–8th graders to cultural activities and campus life. With a 160-acre campus, low tuition, and small class sizes, SCC is a strong contender for any student’s academic journey.
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
GCU is a Christian university focused on providing accessible private education worldwide, especially to Indigenous communities. The university accepts tribal funding and offers a variety of scholarships. For students who may not have excelled in high school, GCU also offers secondary admission pathways—making higher education more accessible for all.
Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC)
Like SCC, PVCC offers the Hoop of Learning program for high school students seeking a head start on college. Beginning this fall, PVCC will launch a bachelor’s degree in accounting and will continue offering flexible hybrid learning options (online and in-person). High-achieving students (3.25 GPA or higher) are encouraged to apply for the Presidential Scholarship—but act fast, as the deadline is June 30!
United Aviate Academy (UAA)
Located in Goodyear, AZ, UAA is a flight school operated by United Airlines. For those dreaming of a career in aviation, UAA offers a structured path to becoming a pilot. Students work toward their Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial License, and ultimately, Certified Flight Instructor credentials.
UAA is also supported by the Native American Aviation Association (NAAA), which promotes aviation education in Tribal communities. Whether you’re aiming to become an airline pilot or agricultural aviator, UAA could help your aspirations take flight.
University of Phoenix
Through its Tribal Strategic Alliance Agreement (TSAA), the University of Phoenix partners with tribal councils, enterprises, and organizations to make higher education more accessible. TSAA benefits extend to tribal members, employees, and their families, offering undergraduate programs at approximately $5,200 per year and graduate programs at around $7,300. This makes it a practical option for those seeking careers within tribal enterprises.
Arizona State University (ASU)
ASU continues to be a leader in higher education, recently enrolling a record-breaking 4,000+ Indigenous students. The university supports these students through 11 dedicated organizations, including American Indian Student Support Services (AISSS), known as a “home away from home” for those transitioning from rural areas. AISSS hosts cultural events such as potlucks led by elders to help ease culture shock.
ASU’s Office of American Indian Initiatives (OAII) also provides early college experiences for K–8 students, allowing them to stay in dorms and dine on campus. With a strong focus on innovation, research, and community engagement, ASU encourages students to not only earn a degree but to find ways to give back to their communities.
East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT)
EVIT offers high school students a chance to pursue vocational training during regular school hours. Students can choose from over 50 programs—ranging from filmmaking to nursing—and graduate with licenses or certificates, all tuition-free.
Adults are also welcome to enroll in EVIT’s programs. Their new associate’s degree in nursing is especially appealing due to its lack of a waiting list. Whether you’re interested in trades, healthcare, or creative fields, EVIT offers hands-on, practical education to jumpstart your career.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
For more information on how to begin your journey in higher education, contact Higher Education Coordinator Gabriela Balderas at (480) 789–7154 or email her at gbalderas@fmyn.org.
