USU, Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation Sign Education and Research Partnership

Utah State University and the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation renewed their memorandum of understanding Tuesday. The MOU reaffirms USU’s commitment to support the Tribe’s educational goals and research partnerships with the university.

“As Utah’s land-grant institution, Utah State University is committed to expanding access to higher education,” President Brad L. Mortensen said. “This partnership will help more Shoshone students pursue their educational goals at USU while creating opportunities for our faculty and students the chance to learn from and work alongside members of the Tribe.”

Chairman Jason Walker said the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation values its partnership with the university and looks forward to building on progress already made.

“Education is one of the most powerful tools we can provide for future generations,” Walker said. “Renewing this memorandum of understanding with Utah State University reaffirms our mutual commitment to expanding opportunities for Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation students and strengthening collaborative research efforts that benefit both our Tribe and the broader community.”

Signed during a ceremony at the David B. Haight Center on USU’s Logan campus, the agreement outlines how the university and the Tribe will work together on education, research and outreach.

Expanding Educational Opportunities

Under the agreement, USU will provide tuition support for NWBSN tribal members of up to eight semesters for eligible incoming first-year students and up to four semesters for transfer students. Students may also receive housing waivers on the Logan campus or at USU Eastern in Price, based on available space.

Since fall 2023, USU has offered also offered a Native American Student Scholarship.

Collaborative Research and Outreach

USU will support tribally approved research by faculty, staff, and students that advances the Tribe’s economic, ecological, environmental, health, and educational priorities. The Tribe, in turn, considers USU a primary research partner when appropriate.

The Tribe will also encourage its members to enroll at USU and encourage Shoshone youth to take part in USU outreach programs such as 4-H, Engineering State, and concurrent enrollment.