Helping Orient Indian Students and Teachers into STEM (HOIST)

Office of Equity and Diveristy HOIST students K’Chele Johnson, Bisaapi Melendez, Kurtis Ellenwood, Amariana Willingham, and River Denny.

Discover your path in STEM and higher education

HOIST is a summer program designed for Native American high school students interested in exploring STEM careers, preparing for college and building community with peers and mentors. Students and teachers alike gain hands-on experience, cultural enrichment and academic support that continues beyond the program.

Program goals

  • Support Native American students in pursuing and completing STEM undergraduate degrees.
  • Strengthen STEM education in schools serving the 11 U of I MOU Tribal Reservations.
  • Increase family and community engagement to create a supportive learning environment.

Program highlights

For students

  • Academic courses: Strengthen core skills in math, English and science through engaging classes taught by experienced instructors.
  • STEM internships: Work alongside University of Idaho researchers and local professionals on real-world projects.
  • Hands-on learning: Participate in field trips, interactive workshops and guest lectures from STEM professionals.
  • Cultural and recreational activities: Enjoy a balance of cultural programming and fun outdoor experiences.
  • Program stipend: Receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

For teachers

  • Mini grants: Apply for funding to enhance classroom STEM resources and materials.
  • Partnership opportunities: Collaborate with the HOIST program to advance STEM curriculum in your school or district.

Tribal Nations Student Affairs

Supporting Indigenous students in academics, campus life and cultural connection — wherever your journey takes you at U of I.

Meet the TNSA team

HOIST 2026

Dates: July 6-18, 2026
Locations: U of I Moscow Campus and McCall Outdoor Science School (MOSS)

Eligibility

HOIST is open to high school students from the 11 Tribal Reservations with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with University of Idaho. Eligible students must have completed at least 9th grade. Graduated seniors who plan to attend U of I in the fall are also welcome to apply.

How to apply

To apply for the HOIST program:

  1. Complete the student application form
    Submit your application online using the form: Apply for HOIST
  2. Request a recommendation from your counselor
    Ask your school counselor to complete the recommendation form on your behalf: Submit a recommendation

Both the student application and counselor recommendation must be submitted for your application to be considered.

Contact information

Have questions about HOIST? We’re here to help.

Email: natives@uidaho.edu
Phone: 208-885-4237

About HOIST

Founded in 1994 through a partnership between Upward Bound and Idaho EPSCoR, HOIST was created to increase the representation of Native American students in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields.

The program was built with input from Tribal Nations, educators and community leaders, ensuring that it honors tribal values and remains relevant to the communities it serves. In 2007, oversight of HOIST transitioned to Tribal Nations Student Affairs at University of Idaho, expanding its reach to students from all 11 U of I MOU Tribal Reservations.

Today, HOIST continues to grow through strong collaboration with tribal communities, university faculty and statewide partners — staying true to its mission to empower Native students through culturally grounded STEM education.