Cherokee Nation invests in Rogers State University STEM center

CLAREMORE, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation committed $4 million to the Rogers State University Foundation for an on-campus STEM center.

The gift is in part of an partnership with the Cherokee Nation and Rogers State University that provides privately funded scholarship assistance to Cherokee Nation citizens accepted into RSU's nursing program for 10 years.

RSU says the investment is the largest single gift in the history of the foundation.

“The partnership between the Cherokee Nation and Rogers State University is long standing and this investment will have a transformational impact on our ability to educate future generations for the high-demand careers of tomorrow,” said Dr. Larry Rice, RSU president in a press release. “We offer our gratitude to Principal Chief Hoskin, Deputy Chief Warner, Speaker of the Council Mike Shambaugh and all Council of the Cherokee Nation members for their support of this project and the mission of the University.”

The Cherokee Nation said the collaboration will ensure students are well-prepared to meet the demand for professionals in critical new health, technology and other science fields.

“Today’s agreement and gift of up to $4 million toward construction of a state-of-the-art STEM education facility will create new pathways for students to pursue careers in health and allied health fields and bring new opportunities for all students, including Cherokee citizens,” said Chief Hoskin in a press release. “Cherokee Nation has an unwavering commitment to the education and future of our youth, and the well-being of our communities. This collaboration will ensure students are well-prepared to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in these critical areas as well as serve Cherokees pursuing degrees in nursing.”

RSU says th e Center for Science and Technology will become the home for RSU's programs in science, engineering, mathematics and technology because the prior location no longer meets today's STEM education program needs.

The center will be 52,000 square feet and feature laboratories, classrooms and office space.