Cherokee Nation Foundation (CNF) announced more than $500,000 in scholarship awarded to 108 students for the 2025-26 academic year, continuing to increase access to education for Cherokee students and families.

“Education is the key to unlock financial independence and mobility for young Cherokees,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “These scholarships are investments in the next generation of Cherokee leaders and the future of tribe. In addition to helping students on a successful career path, scholarships also ease the financial burden of education on Cherokee families.”

CNF offers three types of scholarships: private, tribal and institutionally based. The competitive awards are separate from the funds available through the tribe’s college resource center. All applications are evaluated on academic achievement, community and cultural involvement, and intentions to serve the Cherokee community.

“Our scholarships enable students to reach their highest goals through education without hobbling their future success with debt,” said Janice Randall, CNF executive director. “The potential value of these investments cannot be overstated. Our recipients have improved educational outcomes, achieve higher career paths and generationally enrich the Cherokee community.

“Cherokee Nation Foundation is not a oneway street for scholarships. We are a pathway to help students achieve their academic goals and then find ways to serve or give back to the tribe.”

All awards are given to applicants following a process that evaluates academic performance as well as community and cultural involvement.

Sequoyah County recipients included:

• Bailey Brown, University of Arkansas Fort Smith | Cherokee Nation Behavioral Health Scholarship

• Katherine Floyd, Oklahoma State University | Cherokee Nation Businesses

• Kala Gibbins, Vian High School | Jack Forrest Scholarship

• Kendra Lewis, Oklahoma State University OKC | Cherokee Nation Council Leadership Scholarship – District 4

• Abigail Qualls, Carl Albert State College | Cherokee Nation Council Leadership Scholarship – District 6

• Elijah Stewart, Northeastern State University | Cherokee Nation Behavioral Health Scholarship For a list of scholarship recipients and awards, visit www.cherokeenationfoundation. org.