Modernized Learning Grounded In Ojibwe Culture: Red Lake Nation Revolutionizes Tribal Education

A little over a year after its groundbreaking ceremony, the Red Lake Nation College’s multi-million dollar construction project is nearly finished. This one-of-a-kind college offers an innovative approach to higher education for people of all backgrounds by combining globally relevant coursework with traditional Ojibwe culture. 

Located in downtown Minneapolis, Red Lake Nation College will be the first tribal college located in an urban setting. Although this may not seem like a big deal, the location provides a more accessible way for many young Native people to receive a higher education. 

Plus, with state-of-the-art facilities and a unique blend of modern and traditional educational styles, Red Lake Nation College aims to set each of its students up for success in a competitive job market.

Over the past several years, the number of young Native Americans pursuing higher education has been much lower than the national average, not because of a lack of desire to attend college, but primarily because of accessibility and financial restrictions. 

With educational institutions like Red Lake Nation College emerging in vibrant cities like Minneapolis, Native Americans pursuing degrees have more opportunities for exceptional education while remaining connected to their ancestral roots. 

One way Red Lake Nation College ensures its students remain grounded in the Ojibwe language and culture is through the school’s values. For instance, the tribal college uses, follows, encourages, and supports the 7 Ojibwe values, which include:

• Dabasendizowin (Humility) 
• Debwewin (Truth) 
• Zoongide’iwin (Courage)
• Gwayakwaadiziwin (Honesty)
• Manaaji’idiwin (Respect) 
• Zaagi’idiwin (Love)
• Nibwaakaawin (Wisdom)

Make sure you check out the incredible facility Red Lake Nation College is building and learn more about the school’s values by visiting the website!