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Representatives Sharice Davids of Kansas and Tom Cole of Oklahoma, introduced bipartisan legislation this week to officially recognize “National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week.” The resolution highlights the role Tribal Colleges and Universities, known as TCUs, play in supporting education, economic growth, and community life in Native communities.

TCUs serve as both schools and major economic drivers. From 2022 to 2023, graduates from these colleges contributed about $3.8 billion to the U.S. economy and supported more than 40,700 jobs nationwide. Studies show that every dollar invested in TCUs provides strong returns, including higher lifetime earnings for students, added tax revenue for taxpayers, and broader benefits for society.

“Tribal Colleges and Universities, including Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas, provide unique educational opportunities for Native and non-Native students, and support the communities they serve through entrepreneurial and equivalency programs,” said Rep. Sharice Davids. “These institutions are critical because they develop our workforce capacity with knowledge and skills grounded in cultural traditions and values. I am proud to join Representative Cole in leading this legislation.”

The resolution recognizes 34 accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities across the country. These schools serve students from more than 230 federally recognized tribes and operate 90 campuses in 16 states. Similar resolutions have been introduced in the U.S. House for the past seven years to raise awareness of the impact of TCUs.