Central Washington University is a public institution founded in 1891 and located in Ellensburg, Washington. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including the American Indian Studies Program, which focuses on building relationships with tribal communities and promoting the cultural, educational, and economic development of American Indian nations and peoples. With a diverse range of disciplines, the program seeks to empower a generation of scholars, advocates, and leaders who contribute to a brighter and more inclusive future. While the university offers various student organizations and academic hubs, it is unclear if there is a specific Native American Student Center on campus.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Name of the Center | American Indian Studies Program |
Purpose | To build and support cooperative relationships with tribal communities within and around Washington State and other academic institutions, tribal colleges, and the local central Washington community |
Courses | History, Anthropology, Linguistics, Literature, Political Science, and Environmental Studies |
Degree Options | American Indian Studies Minor |
What You'll Learn
Central Washington University's American Indian Studies Program
Central Washington University (CWU) is a public institution founded in 1891, located in Ellensburg, Washington. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 8,306 students (as of fall 2023), a rural setting, and a campus size of 380 acres.
The American Indian Studies Program at Central Washington University aims to build and support cooperative relationships with tribal communities within and around Washington State, as well as with other academic institutions, tribal colleges, and the local central Washington community. The program offers a unique opportunity to learn about the peoples, cultures, histories, and modern contributions of American Indian and Indigenous communities.
Through this program, students can engage in outreach and community service initiatives that promote the cultural, educational, economic, and natural resource development of American Indian nations and peoples. By gaining a deeper understanding of Pacific Northwest tribal interests and history, students will be better equipped to work with key tribal co-managers of shared environmental resources. This knowledge is particularly valuable in fields such as environmental studies, fisheries, wildlife, archaeology, and outdoor recreation.
The American Indian Studies Program at CWU allows students to study the lifeways of American Indian nations and peoples through a diverse range of disciplines. These include history, anthropology, linguistics, literature, political science, and environmental studies. The program empowers a generation of scholars, advocates, and leaders who contribute to building a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
The Ellensburg campus of Central Washington University is located on lands ceded by the Pshwanapum and other bands and tribes of the Yakama Nation in the Treaty of 1855. The university recognizes the sovereignty and history of these tribal nations and strives to foster inclusive relationships with the local communities.
Yontai University: Student Population and Campus Life
You may want to see also
The University's 30 clubs and organizations
Central Washington University (CWU) offers a wide range of clubs and organizations for students to get involved in. With over 30 clubs and organizations, students can pursue their interests, develop professionally and personally, and connect with others who share similar goals and passions.
One of the key benefits of joining a club or organization at CWU is the opportunity for personal growth and development. For instance, the Nutrition Science Club enables students to apply their knowledge and skills through service activities, explore career opportunities, and engage in academic planning and recreational pursuits. Similarly, the Public Health and Pre-Nursing Club provides a platform for students to actively engage with faculty and the broader Ellensburg community, allowing them to gain meaningful experiences and build connections.
Many of the clubs at CWU focus on professional development and networking. The Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity, for example, helps members enhance their resumes, meet new people, and build valuable professional skills. The Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) is another professional organization that promotes academic success, professional discipline, and personal development, while also fostering networking opportunities for its members.
CWU also offers clubs that cater to specific academic interests and fields. The Chemistry Club and the Economics Association provide students with opportunities to delve deeper into their respective subjects, interact with faculty and industry professionals, and present their own research at conferences.
Additionally, there are clubs that support diverse communities on campus. The Black Student Union serves as a medium to educate, celebrate, unify, and share variants of Afro/African/Black culture within CWU and beyond. EQuAl is an organization that provides a safe and liberating space for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, offering educational resources and a sense of community.
Through these diverse clubs and organizations, students at Central Washington University can find their niche, pursue their passions, and make meaningful connections that will enrich their overall university experience.
St. Cloud State University: Enrollment Figures and Trends
You may want to see also
The University's main campus location
Central Washington University's main campus is located in Ellensburg, Washington. The campus is situated on land that was historically ceded by the Pshwanapum and other bands and tribes of the Yakama Nation in the Treaty of 1855. The university acknowledges the history and sovereignty of the Yakama Nation and strives to build cooperative relationships with tribal communities within and around Washington State.
The Ellensburg campus spans 380 acres and offers a vibrant community life with various activities such as movie nights and intramural sports. The university provides a wide range of academic opportunities with over 135 accredited undergraduate majors and 32 accredited master's degree programs, along with minor and certificate options.
The campus facilities include modern learning centres, residence halls, and athletic facilities. The university's small class sizes, passionate educators, and real-world learning opportunities contribute to a supportive educational environment. The university also fosters diversity and inclusion, with a majority of its students being state residents.
The university offers a variety of student organizations and academic hubs. These include the Center for Excellence in Leadership and the Center for Student Empowerment. Additionally, students can explore special interest clubs like the Rodeo Club and the Trombone Studio. The university's sports teams, known as the CWU Wildcats, compete in the NCAA Division II Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC).
SJSU Student-Athletes: How Many Are There?
You may want to see also
The University's satellite locations
Central Washington University has a main campus in Ellensburg, Washington, and six satellite locations across the state. The six satellite locations are:
- CWU-Des Moines: This campus offers diverse programs, updated facilities, and supportive faculty near the business and tech hub of Seattle.
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (CWU-JBLM): This location offers programs for military personnel, their families, and civilians to achieve their academic goals while serving the nation.
- CWU-Lynnwood: This campus offers a unique learning environment for those seeking advanced education and career prospects.
- CWU-Moses Lake: This location provides academic programs and certificates, offering supportive learning closer to home.
- CWU-Pierce County: Located at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom in Lakewood, Washington, this campus serves students in and around the greater Tacoma area.
- CWU-Sammamish: CWU-Sammamish offers a personalized education in modern facilities with access to nearby tech hubs.
- CWU-Wenatchee: This campus offers top facilities and academics to foster a supportive learning community in the scenic Wenatchee Valley.
- CWU Yakima: Emphasizing community engagement and quality education, this location provides a supportive learning environment.
Texas Women University: Student Car Ownership Rates
You may want to see also
The University's sports teams
Central Washington University (CWU) is home to the Central Washington Wildcats, who compete in 13 varsity sports. The Wildcats compete in NCAA Division II intercollegiate sports as members of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference.
The seasonal order of Wildcats sports is as follows:
- Football
- Cross Country
- Basketball
- Track and Field
- Baseball
- Rugby
- Volleyball
- Soccer
- Softball
The Wildcats have had their fair share of success over the years. The football team went undefeated in the 2009 regular season, and the university's rugby team has regularly defeated larger Division I universities. The rugby sevens team has also gained national recognition, finishing fourth at the 2011 Collegiate Rugby Championship.
CWU's sports teams have also gained recognition for their sportsmanship. In 2008, two Wildcat softball players, Mallory Holtman and Liz Wallace, helped an injured opponent, Sara Tucholsky of Western Oregon University, by carrying her around the bases after she hit a home run and injured herself. The story received national attention, and the trio appeared on several TV shows.
The university's athletics website mentions "intramural sports", suggesting that there are also recreational sports teams for students to take part in outside of the varsity teams.
Scottish Students at Glasgow University: What's the Count?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
I cannot find sufficient information to confirm whether Central Washington University has a Native American Student Center. However, the university does offer an American Indian Studies Program, which seeks to build and support cooperative relationships with tribal communities within and around Washington State.
The American Indian Studies Program at Central Washington University focuses on the peoples, cultures, histories, and modern contributions of American Indian and Indigenous communities. The program aims to empower a generation of scholars, advocates, and leaders who will contribute to building a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
Students in the American Indian Studies Program can study the lifeways of American Indian nations and peoples through various disciplines, including history, anthropology, linguistics, literature, political science, and environmental studies.
In addition to gaining knowledge about American Indian cultures and histories, students in the American Indian Studies Program at Central Washington University can engage in outreach and community service opportunities. This helps promote the cultural, educational, economic, and natural resource development of American Indian nations and peoples.