Nestled in the heart of North Dakota, Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College (NHS College), formerly known as Fort Berthold Community College, stands as a beacon of higher education and cultural preservation for the Three Affiliated Tribes – the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nations, also known as the Nueta, Hidatsa, and Sahnish. Located at 220 8th Avenue North, PO Box 490, New Town, ND 58763, the college serves as a vital educational institution for the Fort Berthold Reservation and surrounding communities. With a phone number of (701) 627-4738 and a website at www.fortbertholdcc.edu, the college offers a range of academic programs and services designed to empower students and contribute to the well-being of the tribal nations.
Established in 1973, Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College has a rich history intertwined with the resilience and determination of the Three Affiliated Tribes. The college was founded with the primary goal of providing accessible and culturally relevant education to tribal members, fostering self-sufficiency, and promoting the preservation of the tribes’ unique languages, traditions, and values. As a tribally chartered institution, NHS College is deeply rooted in the community and governed by the needs and aspirations of the Three Affiliated Tribes. The college’s commitment to cultural preservation is evident in its curriculum, which integrates indigenous knowledge and perspectives across various disciplines.
The physical presence of Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College extends beyond its main campus in New Town. Recognizing the diverse needs of the reservation, the college operates branch campuses in Mandaree and White Shield. These satellite locations provide convenient access to educational opportunities for students residing in remote areas, ensuring that higher education is within reach for all members of the Three Affiliated Tribes. The multiple locations demonstrate the college’s dedication to serving the entire Fort Berthold Reservation and fostering educational equity.
At the helm of Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College is President Twyla Baker-Demaray, a dedicated leader committed to the college’s mission of providing quality education and promoting tribal sovereignty. Under her guidance, the college continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its students and the community. Her leadership reflects the college’s commitment to empowering indigenous voices and promoting self-determination through education.
As a designated Land Grant College, Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College benefits from federal funding and resources that support its academic programs, research initiatives, and community outreach efforts. The Land Grant status enables the college to provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that address the specific challenges and opportunities facing the Three Affiliated Tribes. This commitment to practical education ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the economic and social development of their communities.
In Fall 2014, Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College had an enrollment of 152 students. While the student body may be relatively small compared to larger institutions, the college prides itself on its personalized approach to education. The small class sizes allow for individualized attention and a supportive learning environment where students can thrive. The college fosters a strong sense of community, where students feel connected to their peers, faculty, and the cultural heritage of the Three Affiliated Tribes.
Academic Programs
Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College offers a range of associate degree programs designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their chosen fields. These programs cater to a variety of interests and career aspirations, reflecting the diverse needs of the community. Although the provided information doesn’t specify individual programs, community colleges often offer areas of study such as:
- General Studies: A flexible program that provides a broad foundation of knowledge across various disciplines, preparing students for further study or entry-level employment.
- Native American Studies: A program that explores the history, culture, and contemporary issues facing Native American communities, fostering cultural awareness and understanding.
- Business Administration: A program that provides students with the fundamental principles of business management, accounting, and marketing, preparing them for careers in various industries.
- Early Childhood Education: A program that prepares students to work with young children in preschools, daycare centers, and other early childhood settings.
- Nursing: An in-demand field that prepares individuals for a career in healthcare, providing direct patient care and contributing to community health.
The associate degree programs at Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College are designed to be accessible and affordable, providing students with a pathway to further education or immediate employment. The college’s commitment to student success is evident in its comprehensive support services, which include academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling.
Further Considerations
While the provided information is limited, it is important to note that Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College likely offers a range of student support services, including:
- Financial Aid: Assistance in navigating the financial aid process, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students afford the cost of education.
- Tutoring Services: Academic support to help students succeed in their coursework, including individual tutoring and group study sessions.
- Career Counseling: Guidance and resources to help students explore career options, develop job search skills, and connect with potential employers.
- Cultural Programs: Activities and events that celebrate the culture and traditions of the Three Affiliated Tribes, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
In conclusion, Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College plays a vital role in the educational landscape of the Fort Berthold Reservation. As a tribally chartered Land Grant College, it is deeply committed to providing accessible, culturally relevant education that empowers students, promotes tribal sovereignty, and contributes to the well-being of the Three Affiliated Tribes. The college’s dedication to its mission is evident in its academic programs, student support services, and its commitment to preserving the unique cultural heritage of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nations.