Scholarships for Navajos

Navajo students pursuing degrees in health science at Fort Lewis College are eligible for new scholarships.

Outgoing tribal President Russell Begaye and college President Tom Stritikus recently signed the scholarship agreement.

Navajo students in health or exercise science can apply to receive $2,500 per semester in the 2019 calendar year. Students must be enrolled full time.

About 20 percent of students in the college’s Health Sciences Department are Navajo.

The school in Durango, Colo., waives tuition for Native American students. The scholarships funded by the Navajo Nation will help cover living expenses, textbooks and student fees.

Students who receive the scholarships must agree to serve the Navajo Nation for at least two years after graduation.

Begaye says the scholarships will help address gaps in the tribe’s workforce.