Native Nations Center

The Nevada Native Nations Center is comprised of five components that focus on supporting Tribal communities, culture and pathways for success. These five areas ensure that Nevada’s Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities can equitably access economic, workforce and educational opportunities that strengthen Tribal participation and support the overall economic success of the Nevada Tech Hub region.

Three students wearing gloves practice a medical procedure in a clinical simulation lab, standing beside a hospital bed with a training mannequin. The room contains medical equipment, storage bins, and supplies, while one student appears to be writing or following instructions as the others assist.

Learn, Empower, Achieve, Dream (LEAD) Program

The office supports tribal recruitment efforts rooted in community relationships and Tribal partnership. These efforts support Native students and families by connecting them to resources like the Native American Fee Waiver and programs like the LEAD (Learn, Empower, Achieve, Dream) Program, advancing a Tribal youth workforce pipeline by increasing access to higher education, leadership development, and STEM/STEAM-related career pathways.

A group of students and community members pose together on a stage during an Indigenous Affinity Celebration at the University of Nevada, Reno. Many are wearing traditional clothing, patterned blankets, or cultural regalia, and some have ceremonial accessories. A large screen behind them displays the event title along with Multicultural Center branding.

Tribal Academy

The office supports retention through the Tribal Academy, which focuses on assisting high school and college students throughout their educational and career journeys. Through structured mentorship, culturally responsive advising and career-focused support, the Academy prepares students for professional roles that contribute to Tribal and regional economic development. Academic offerings span high-demand fields including engineering, health sciences, business and public health.

Group of future tribal leaders meet in a classroom with University of Nevada, Reno faculty to discuss Business and Economic Development.

Tribal Leadership Development

The Tribal Leadership Development Program is designed for elected and appointed representatives and organizational leaders of Nevada’s various tribal councils and tribal communities. The program focuses on strengthening leadership, management skills and building relationships to create a lasting community of practice.

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Workshops

In partnership with the University Center for Economic Development the office delivers workshops based on the specific needs of Tribal communities. These workshops provide practical tools, knowledge and connections that support Tribal governments’ ability to plan for, manage and participate in economic development opportunities.

If your Tribal Community is interested in potential workshop, please email Daphne Hooper, daphnehooper@unr.edu.

Tribal leaders speaking with a crowd seated at tables in a ballroom.

Consultation

Tribal consultation is a federal mandate and a critical component of responsible and efficient development. The office supports strengthening ongoing consultation efforts to better understand Tribal priorities and address potential cultural, environmental and social considerations that may arise among Tribal Nations, public agencies, private industry and community-based organizations.

FAQs

Partnerships, funding and support for the Nevada Native Nations Center

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