NSU to create direct admission program for Sequoyah High School

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – On July 17, the Cherokee Nation and Northeastern State University signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a direct admissions program for students at Sequoyah High School. This initiative will allow eligible students to gain automatic admission to NSU—bypassing the traditional application process—and create a more seamless pathway to higher education.

The partnership focuses on increasing college access for graduating seniors at Sequoyah High School, with a special emphasis on supporting students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation college applicants and historically underserved communities. By removing common barriers to enrollment and ensuring students meet critical scholarship deadlines, the program aims to expand opportunities for Cherokee youth.

“Our students at Sequoyah High School deserve every opportunity to build successful futures,” Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said “This partnership highlights the dedication of the Cherokee Nation and NSU to ensure that higher education is accessible, attainable and meaningful for our young people. Together, we are investing in the next generation of Cherokee leaders with a university that is firmly rooted in Cherokee tradition and history.”

In addition to streamlining admission, the program will ensure that eligible students are considered for automatic scholarships. NSU will work closely with the Cherokee Nation to ensure that students and families are informed about scholarship and financial aid opportunities available through the university.

“This is a great next step in our long-standing partnership with the Cherokee Nation,” NSU President Rodney Hanley said. “By offering direct admission to Sequoyah students, we’re taking the guesswork out of the college process and helping more students see college as a real, reachable option. I applaud the Cherokee Nation’s commitment to opening doors through education and helping families build brighter futures.”

Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief Bryan Warner, a 2009 NSU alumnus, also praised the program.

“NSU’s beginnings date back to 1846 when it was founded as the Cherokee National Female Seminary, so it’s only fitting that we continue to honor this historic link through programs that connect Cherokee citizens with educational opportunities,” Warner said. “Programs like this not only reduce barriers but also empower our youth to achieve their dreams while keeping our students close to home and connected to their Cherokee roots.”

According to Cherokee Nation Education Services, more than 1,600 Cherokee students are currently attending NSU.

A second MOU was signed during the event, expanding collaboration through the Cherokee Nation’s Gadugi Portal. This innovative platform will help connect Cherokee citizens to timely information about educational programs, cultural resources and workforce opportunities at NSU.

For more information about NSU degree programs, micro-credentials or certificate options, visit Go2NSU.com.

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Northeastern State University and Cherokee Nation officials celebrate the signing of two Memorandum of Understanding agreements focusing on direct admission for eligible Sequoyah High School students and expanding access to timely information about educational and cultural resources and workforce opportunities with the university. 

Back left to right: Aaron Emberton, Cherokee Nation Education Services Deputy Executive Director;  Rachel Fletcher, Cherokee Nation Education Services Manager of College Resources; Terry Heustis, Sequoyah High School Superintendent; Justin Brown, Sequoyah High School Principal; S. Joe Crittenden, Cherokee Nation Secretary of Veteran Affairs; Mark Herrin, NSU Associate Director of Recruitment

Middle left to right: Lisa Hall, Council of the Cherokee Nation; Dr. Candessa Tehee, Council of the Cherokee Nation & NSU Associate Professor; Dr. Dan Mabery, NSU Vice President of University Relations; Daniel Mead, Cherokee Nation Acting Marshall; Christy Landsaw, NSU Vice President for Administration & Finance; Sasha Blackfox-Qualls, Council of the Cherokee Nation; Jennifer Nichols, NSU Director of Admissions & Recruitment

Front left to right: Dr. Corey Bunch, Cherokee Nation Chief of Staff; Dr. Rodney Hanley, NSU President; Chuck Hoskin Jr.; Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation; Dr. Kelly Jo Larsen, NSU Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management