EOU Named Among Top 200 Colleges for Indigenous Students

EOU Named Among Top 200 Colleges for Indigenous Students

LA GRANDE, Ore. — Eastern Oregon University (EOU) has been named one of the “Top 200 Colleges for Indigenous Students” in the 2026 College Issue of Winds of Change magazine, recognizing EOU’s commitment to supporting Indigenous students through academic programs, financial aid, and community engagement.

The national recognition highlights EOU’s academic offerings and investment in Indigenous student support. EOU continues to prioritize access, affordability, and culturally responsive education as part of its mission as Oregon’s Rural University.

Located on the traditional homelands of the Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Nez Perce tribes, Eastern Oregon University serves a student population of just under 3,000. Winds of Change noted the University’s scenic campus in La Grande, situated in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, as well as its close-knit community in the natural landscape of Eastern Oregon.

EOU has also been recognized for value, including being named among the best-value colleges in the Northwest. Academic strengths include robust science, technology, engineering, and math programs supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and partnerships with Oregon State University and Oregon Health & Science University.

Within the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the Native American Studies program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that draws from history, economics, political science, anthropology, and law. Student engagement is further supported by organizations such as the Speel-Ya Native American Student Council, which plays an active role in campus life, and through cultural events, including the University’s annual powwow.

Eastern Oregon University provides multiple financial aid opportunities for Indigenous students, including the Tribal Student Grant and scholarships through organizations such as the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, which works in partnership with the EOU Foundation to provide access to other privately-funded scholarship opportunities, including the First Citizen Award, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), and more.

AISES is a national nonprofit founded in 1977 to increase the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM education and careers through academic, professional, and cultural support.

“Being recognized among the top colleges for Indigenous students reflects Eastern Oregon University’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and support systems,” said  Native American Program & MOSAIC Center Coordinator Pepper Huxoll. “We are proud to cultivate a community where Indigenous students can thrive academically and culturally.”

For more information about Eastern Oregon University’s programs and support services, visit eou.edu.