Name change marks new chapter for Native American student support at U of I

MOSCOW, Idaho — University of Idaho is turning a page in its history with the launch of the renamed Office of Tribal Nations Student Affairs (TNSA). Students, alumni, employees and community members are invited to an open house celebrating the transition and showcasing expanded opportunities for student success.

TNSA will host an open house from 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, at its building on campus, 865 W. Seventh St., to showcase its renovated student space and celebrate its name change from the Native American Student Center. Refreshments will be served.

“Over the years, the Native American Student Center has grown in both reach and impact, while remaining true to its original mission: supporting success, well-being and cultural identity of our Native American students,” said Steven Martin, Tribal Nations Student Affairs director. “Today, we are ready to embrace a broader vision — one that extends beyond the University of Idaho campus to our tribal communities, strengthening relationships across Indigenous spaces. Tribal Nations Student Affairs reflects this evolution. Though the name has changed, the spirit of our space and purpose remains steadfast.”

Established in 2007, U of I’s Office of Tribal Relations provides leadership and support for Native American initiatives, organizations and programs that align with the university’s strategic mission. The office fosters collaboration in knowledge-sharing, research and education to advance tribal self-determination. Guided by the university’s land-grant mission, it works to expand educational access for tribal citizens, promote economic development and strengthen nation-building. Out of this commitment, the Native American Student Center, now Tribal Nations Student Affairs, was created. It offers a welcoming space for academic, financial and tribal community support for Native American students.

For more information, visit uidaho.edu/tribal-relations.

Media contact

Steven Martin
Tribal Nations Student Affairs director
208-885-4237
stevenmartin@uidaho.edu