PHOENIX — Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren visited Grand Canyon University (GCU) to meet with Navajo and Native American students, strengthen partnerships in higher education, and sign an agreement expanding educational opportunities for Navajo Nation citizens.
During the visit, President Nygren met with Navajo and other Native American students attending Grand Canyon University for a roundtable discussion focused on student experiences, academic goals, and future opportunities.
Students introduced themselves, shared the communities they represent, outlined their fields of study, and engaged directly with the President on questions related to education, leadership, and career development.
Currently, approximately 450 Navajo students are enrolled at GCU through both online and on-campus programs, with many receiving support through the Navajo Nation Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance (ONNSFA).
The visit concluded with President Nygren signing an Educational Alliance Participant Agreement between the Navajo Nation and GCU. The agreement formalizes a partnership aimed at expanding educational access and workforce development opportunities for Navajo Nation members.
Through the agreement, eligible Navajo Nation employees and members will receive a 10 percent tuition scholarship for GCU’s online or evening bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs, while spouses and dependents will be eligible for a 5 percent tuition scholarship. The scholarship applies to many of GCU’s academic programs and will remain available as long as the partnership agreement remains in effect.
“Higher education should feel within reach for our people, not out of reach,” said President Nygren. “This agreement is important because it creates a direct benefit for Navajo Nation employees and members through a 10 percent tuition scholarship, while also extending support to spouses and dependents. That means more opportunities for our people to earn degrees, build careers, and strengthen their future without having to carry the full burden of higher education costs alone.”
GCU, established in 1949, has developed strong partnerships with tribal communities across Arizona and supports Native American students through culturally responsive education, academic counseling, mentorship programs, and flexible learning options. Students can pursue their degrees online, on campus, or through evening classes, allowing many working professionals to continue their education.
GCU also provides academic tutoring, counseling services, workshops, and cultural programming that celebrates Native American traditions and identity while supporting student success.
The agreement was signed by GCU Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel Raymond Kaselonis and President Nygren, marking another step forward in strengthening education partnerships that support Navajo Nation students and families.
President Nygren thanked the university’s leadership, staff, and students for their warm welcome and emphasized the importance of building partnerships that empower the next generation of Navajo leaders.
