Students prep for ACT test during camp



Cherokee Nation Foundation readies high school juniors and seniors for college

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Cherokee Nation Foundation and Northeastern State University recently partnered to host a weeklong college-readiness camp for Cherokee youth.

Rising juniors and seniors received 15 hours of intensive ACT prep instruction as well as college workshops focusing on admissions, financial aid and scholarships, essay writing, and time management. NSU and CNF scholarships provided all food, lodging, materials and testing fees for the students.

“This camp is a shining example of what can be done when we all work together for our children,” said Janice Randall, executive director of CNF. “NSU was the perfect partner for this program, and together we can drastically increase the number of Cherokee youth we help achieve their goals.”

The program also included evening social events and activities highlighting Cherokee culture, including a trip to the Cherokee Heritage Center, storytelling and stickball. Photos were shared throughout the week on the foundation’s Facebook page.

At the end of the weeklong camp, students took the official ACT test.

“The students worked hard all week, and we applaud their commitment to bettering their scores and pursuing their dreams of higher education,” said Randall. “The foundation staff will continue to be there for each and every student, guiding them through the application and scholarship processes.”

Applications are still being accepted for the foundation’s next college prep program in July. The third annual Cherokee College Prep Institute will be held at Oklahoma State University’s Stillwater campus from July 13 – 18.

With a 5-to-1 student-faculty ratio, students will analyze, prepare and complete college applications, identify scholarship opportunities, and explore schools of interest. CCPI’s engaging curriculum, developed in cooperation with College Horizons and participating university faculty, includes interactive sessions focusing on ACT strategies, essay writing, interview skills and time management.

This year’s participating university faculty include the University of Arkansas, University of Central Arkansas, University of Central Oklahoma, Dartmouth College, Duke University, Northeastern State University, Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma, University of Pennsylvania, Rogers State University, Stanford University, University of Illinois at Irbana/Champaign, University of Tulsa, Bacone College and Yale University.

The application is available online at https://cherokeenation.academicworks.com. All applications must be submitted by Friday, June 27.

For more information, contact Cherokee Nation Foundation at (918) 207-0950 or Janice Randall at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..