The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Ted Hibbeler and Nikki Menard have launched the Hoop of Learning program to assist Indigenous youth in preparing for college. Funded through a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, the program is aimed at helping Indigenous 11th and 12th graders enroll in and successfully graduate from college. The program, a bridge pathway between the university, Southeast Community College, and Lincoln Public Schools, offers dual-enrollment courses in high school that allow students to earn credits for both high school and college. After graduating high school, students receive a scholarship to SCC and a stipend for living expenses. Upon obtaining an associate’s degree with at least a 2.0 GPA, students can transfer to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
The Hoop of Learning program kicked off with multiple workshops on college readiness, speakers from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and a cultural celebration featuring honor songs performed by a Native drum group. Currently, 18 students are enrolled in the program, with more on the waitlist. The program, which began in 1995, emphasizes academic success while helping students maintain a connection to their cultural traditions and history. Under an agreement between UNL and SCC, credits and degrees earned at the community college will transfer directly to the university, allowing students to progress toward a bachelor’s degree seamlessly.
Students like Lonny and Amalia have praised the program for its personalized approach, combining academic studies with cultural enrichment. Hibbeler, who named the program based on the Lakota medicine wheel symbol, hopes that Hoop of Learning will not only support students in achieving their academic aspirations but also help them explore their cultural identity and history.
Source
Photo credit news.unl.edu