The University of Nevada, Reno Office of Indigenous Relations will hold the Native Students LEAD program Aug. 7-11 on the University campus. LEAD, which stands for learn, empower, achieve and dream, is an immersive, one-week experience where Indigenous high-school-aged students stay on campus, experience college life and coursework, and connect with culture and cultural support systems at the University.

“Native Students LEAD is a summer camp to give Indigenous high school students a chance to visit and experience a university campus, so they may begin envisioning themselves attending,” Daphne Emm - Hooper, director of Indigenous relations at the University, said. “The camp is culturally centered and provides an opportunity for students to explore opportunities a college education offers. Participants will stay in residence halls, attend hands-on workshops on a variety of majors and hear from Indigenous students and tribal professionals on the benefits and possibilities of pursuing higher education.”

During this pilot program, students will learn about financial literacy, business, cultural resources and archeology, journalism and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). They will also meet with University faculty and staff to explore resources available around campus. The week will end with short presentations from each student where they share their story and how the program helped them to LEAD.

“Our Indigenous communities have and will continue to make tremendous contributions to the University of Nevada, Reno. It is crucial that we ensure that Indigenous students feel welcome and empowered on campus,” University President Brian Sandoval said. “We look forward to welcoming Indigenous students to the University to showcase the many supports and opportunities available to them here.”

Nearly 30 students are expected to attend the Native Students LEAD program, which is sponsored by the Office of Indigenous Relations, First Nations Development Institute, the College of Business’s University Center for Economic Development and the College of Business’s Nevada Leadership Program.