Located in Lawton, Oklahoma, Comanche Nation College (CNC) stands as a beacon of higher education within the Comanche Nation. Established in 2002 through a Comanche Nation Charter Resolution, the college holds the distinction of being the first Tribal College founded in the state. The genesis of CNC stemmed from the vision of the Comanche Nation, who established a Comanche Nation College Council composed of leaders in higher education to guide its development.
A Foundation in Education and Community
The college’s establishment signifies the Comanche Nation’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for its tribal members and the broader community. Situated at 1608 SW 9th St., Lawton, OK 73501, Comanche Nation College offers a welcoming and culturally relevant learning environment. The institution’s phone number is (580) 591-0203, and its website, www.cnc.cc.ok.us, provides a comprehensive overview of its programs, services, and mission.
Leadership and Governance
Dr. Robbie Wahnee currently serves as the President of Comanche Nation College, guiding the institution’s academic and administrative endeavors. While not a Land Grant College, CNC plays a vital role in fostering educational attainment and cultural preservation within the Comanche Nation.
Accreditation and Program Development
Comanche Nation College has diligently pursued accreditation and program development since its inception. Licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Private Vocational Schools since 2004, CNC has demonstrated a commitment to meeting quality standards in education.
A significant milestone was achieved in April 2008 when the college received provisional accreditation for its practical nursing program from the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. This accreditation was a testament to the college’s dedication to providing high-quality healthcare education. By the end of March 2011, the Oklahoma Board of Nursing fully approved the Comanche Nation College Practical Nursing Program, allowing it to prepare students for careers as licensed practical nurses.
STEM Initiatives and Research Opportunities
Comanche Nation College has actively sought collaborations to enhance its academic offerings and provide research opportunities for its students. For four years, the college participated in collaboration grants through Oklahoma’s Health Science Center, focusing on undergraduate development in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs and research initiatives.
These grants have enabled CNC to offer special summer institutes for qualified candidates, providing full scholarships for students to conduct research at various research universities. This initiative allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience in STEM fields, fostering their interest in pursuing careers in these areas.
Candidacy for Accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission
A crucial step in Comanche Nation College’s pursuit of academic excellence was its candidacy for accreditation with the North Central Association-Higher Learning Commission (NCA-HLC) of Chicago, IL. On November 1, 2013, the Board of Trustees for the NCA-HLC voted to grant Comanche Nation College the status of "candidate for accreditation," as confirmed in a letter from then NCA-HLC President Sylvia Manning.
This candidacy status marked a significant achievement for the college, signifying that it had met the initial requirements and demonstrated the potential to achieve full accreditation. With candidate for accreditation status, CNC was approved to offer certificates and associate-level degrees, expanding its educational offerings to meet the needs of its students and community.
The Accreditation Process and Institutional Progress
Comanche Nation College was designated as a candidate for accreditation for a period of four years. During this time, the NCA-HLC conducted a biennial evaluation in 2014 to assess the college’s progress toward meeting the full accreditation requirements. This evaluation provided valuable feedback and guidance to help CNC strengthen its programs, services, and institutional effectiveness.
According to NCA-HLC guidelines, if an institution believes that it is making better than adequate progress within the candidacy time frame, it can request an "Early Initial Accreditation" in place of the biennial evaluation. This option allows institutions that demonstrate exceptional progress to accelerate the accreditation process.
The Statement of Affiliation Status and the Comanche Nation College Organizational Profile are available on the NCA-HLC website, www.ncahlc.org, providing transparency and accountability regarding the college’s accreditation status and institutional profile.
Academic Programs and Enrollment
Comanche Nation College primarily offers associate degree programs, providing students with a foundation for further education or entry-level employment. While specific associate degree programs are not listed in the provided document, the college’s website and academic catalog would provide a comprehensive overview of its program offerings.
In the Fall of 2015, the college had an enrollment of 76 students. While this enrollment number may seem small, it is important to consider the college’s focus on serving the specific needs of the Comanche Nation and the local community. The small class sizes allow for personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.
Comanche Nation College: A Vision for the Future
Comanche Nation College embodies the Comanche Nation’s commitment to education, cultural preservation, and community development. Through its dedication to academic excellence, accreditation, and student success, CNC is poised to continue serving as a valuable resource for the Comanche Nation and the broader community in Lawton, Oklahoma.
Contact Information and Further Inquiries
For more information about CNC and its upcoming spring semester, interested individuals can contact the college directly at (580) 591-0203. The college’s website, www.cnc.cc.ok.us, also provides a wealth of information about its programs, services, and mission.
The Role of Comanche Nation College in Tribal Education
Comanche Nation College plays a crucial role in the landscape of tribal education. By offering culturally relevant programs and support services, the college helps to empower Native American students to achieve their academic and career goals. The institution’s commitment to preserving Comanche culture and language further strengthens its connection to the community and its mission.
Conclusion
Comanche Nation College is an important institution for the Comanche Nation and the state of Oklahoma. As it continues to develop its programs and services, Comanche Nation College will remain a vital resource for education and community development.