Welcome to the Native American Excellence Program (NAEP)! We serve all students, staff, faculty, and community members from Native American, Indigenous, and First-Nation backgrounds. By providing responsive services and celebrating Native cultures through our events and programming, we create a space for belonging, community, and success.
The Native American Excellence Program believes student success comes from providing a “home away from home” at Utah Valley University.
Our vision includes strategic plans to promote:
NAEP hosts events throughout the academic year to connect with other groups on campus, celebrate Native traditions and achievements, and facilitate student success. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on upcoming events.
Join us every week for Friday Forum from 1 – 3 pm in CB 101a. These community socials are a weekly opportunity for students to spend time together and play games and do homework.
Indigenous People’s Day
During the second Monday in October, the Native American Excellence Program celebrates Indigenous People’s Day. This day celebrates the diverse cultures and histories of indigenous communities. Speakers, lectures, and panels discuss important topics of indigeneity as well as various cultural performances.
UVU Powwow
The UVU Powwow is an annual event that brings together Native American and Indigenous communities to campus. Attendees are treated to Native American dance competitions and drum contests. All are welcome to this annual free event to learn and take in Native American culture and to browse and support Native American small businesses at our arts and crafts vendor booths.
Native American Storytelling Night
UVU Athletics in partnership with UVU Men’s Basketball celebrate Native American Heritage Month with their annual Native American Heritage Night. Pregame festivities include a Flag Song by local Native American drum groups and the National Anthem in Native American languages. During halftime, Native American dancers fill the court with traditional Native American dancing.
Governor’s Native American Summit
The Utah Division of Indian Affairs and Utah Valley University partner most years to host the annual Governor’s Native American Summit. State and Tribal leaders, community stakeholders, educators, and community members converge to learn more about the issues and concerns impacting Utah’s American Indian population with an aim to empower attendees with ideas and solutions to make positive changes in Native American communities.
There are clubs and programs across campus where UVU’s Native and Indigenous students find community, access leadership opportunities, and celebrate our rich cultures and backgrounds.
Native Wolverine Association
The Native Wolverine Association (NWA) welcomes all who are interested in Indigenous tribes of the United States and Canada. Our purpose is to promote a sense of community for Native American students at UVU, increase educational opportunities, and strengthen support services for Native American students. We host several activities and events throughout the school year, including socials, fundraisers, campus tours, Native American arts and crafts workshops, community service, and more. NWA have the opportunity to volunteer at various events throughout the year in partnership with the Native American Initiative.
American Indian Studies Program
UVU offers several degrees and programs within the American Indian Studies (AIS) program. AIS courses provide students with academic experiences and strategies that will prepare them for relevant employment in tribal governments and other Indian organizations.
Utah Residency
Enrolled Members of a Tribe whose reservation or trust lands lie partly or wholly within Utah or whose border is at any point contiguous with the border of Utah to qualify for Utah Residency at Utah Valley University.
Native American Student GAP Scholarship
The Native American Student GAP Scholarship is awarded to Native American students who are a member of one of the federally recognized tribes in and around Utah and who have applied for scholarships or financial aid with their tribe.
Sacred Circle Healthcare
Sacred Circle Healthcare is an entity of the Confederated Tribes of the Goshute Reservation that offers a variety of medical services, including primary care, optometry, dentistry, and more.
For a full directory of student resources, visit the Student Success website.
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Native American Excellence Program
