About Us - Impact
The OSU Center for Sovereign Nations was founded in 2015 under a 3-fold mission of Sovereignty, Students, and Partnerships, with a lead investment by the Chickasaw Nation and later investments by the Choctaw Nation and the Cherokee Nation. The Center collaborates with many tribal nations and serves all native students and their friends.
The Center is a familiar and welcoming space where students can express themselves and their cultural identities, while also learning from others. It is a space that supports students by providing resources for academic success. The Center also hosts events and activities for visitors to learn about tribal sovereignty.
NASA & AISES Treasurer, 2024-2026
Sovereignty
Respecting Tribal Governments
Tribal Sovereignty means that federally recognized tribes have the inherent right and power to govern themselves and to regulate their own internal government. We provide opportunities for others to learn about tribal sovereignty and tribal culture, fostering a greater understanding of tribal sovereignty and culture at OSU. We also explore the history and impact of tribal sovereignty. We promote respect for - and respectful engagement with - tribal governments and their citizens.
The OSU Center for Sovereign Nations has given me a home away from home, and I have met some of my best friends and people I consider family. I am forever grateful to NASA and the CSN for fostering community and a place of belonging on campus. I would not have been able to have a successful college experience without them!
NASA President, 2024-2026
Students
A "Home Away From Home"
We serve as a “home base” for Native students and their friends, connecting students to important resources at OSU and back through their tribal nation. We are led by a group of undergraduate students who serve as ambassadors and as project leaders and contributors. We advise the OSU Native American Student Association, providing support, encouragement, and resources to help them be successful and serve students at OSU. We also partner with and promote other Native-affiliated student orgs.
CSN Student Leader Ambassadors Honoring the Cowboy Code - Fulfilling our 3-fold Mission - Led by Students
Advising and Supporting NASA
The OSU Center for Sovereign Nations advises the OSU Native American Student Association. NASA has a strong membership and hosts events throughout the year, including Powwow, Stompdance, Miss and Mister American Indian OSU Pageant, Honoring Ceremony, Stickball Tournament, Taco Sale, and more!
Championing Organizations
We strongly support and promote other Native-affiliated student organizations at Oklahoma State University. We work with these organizations and their home departments, partnering on events, activities, and educational initiatives to support students and promote tribal nation sovereignty.
Promoting Distinction
CSN Student Leaders earn national and institutional distinction at the highest levels, including being named as Udall Scholars (4 National Winners, 5 National Honorable Mentions), Seniors of Significance (5), and Outstanding Seniors (2), among many other honors and achievements.
Developing Student Leaders
We are truly student-led with a focus on student success. CSN Student Leaders serve on functional teams to develop leadership, teamwork, professionalism, and skills for the workplace. They also participate in small groups to ensure they are thriving academically, personally, and professionally.
The OSU Center for Sovereign Nations has been a source of support through every season of my academic journey, from undergrad to the pandemic and through graduate school. The Center has helped prepare me for life after graduation and has gifted me a community, lasting friendships, and lifelong memories.
CSN Alumni, 2019-2025
Partnerships Guided by Partner Input
We develop partnerships with tribal governments and other Native-aligned organizations. We maintain a community of OSU partners as a support network for undergraduate students, connecting students to unique and enriching opportunities and resources. We facilitate collaborations/partnerships between Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma tribal nations. We support OSU faculty and tribal governments on grants.
CSN Partners
