Write Governor Kotek: Please protect the Oregon Tribal Student Grant.

The Oregon Tribal Student Grant (OTSG) is one of the most impactful higher education investments in Oregon. The program supports tribal students from Oregon’s federally recognized Tribes by covering the real cost of attendance of college, including tuition, housing, books, and other essential expenses. 

Over the last several years, the program has changed lives across Oregon. Applications and participation have steadily increased as more tribal students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees at Oregon’s public universities, community colleges, and eligible private institutions. 

At the University of Oregon alone, the Oregon Tribal Student Grant currently supports 73 students. 

Despite the program’s success and growing need, the State of Oregon is now facing a projected shortfall in funding for the 2026-27 academic year.  

Tribal students should not be left wondering whether the support they were promised will materialize. Oregon should not delay action on a program that it has publicly championed as a national model for supporting tribal students.  

The solution is clear: Governor Kotek should support Emergency Board action to address the Oregon Tribal Student Grant shortfall during the September 2026 Legislative Days. 

We are asking students, alumni, tribal community members, faculty, staff, and supporters of higher education to send a message urging immediate action.