Building Capacity at Home: Tribal College Faculty Pursuing Graduate Degrees Through a Reciprocal University Partnership

Abstract

ABSTRACT Thirteen Tribal College (TCU) faculty in Montana are pursuing graduate degrees through a reciprocal partnership with Montana State University (MSU) to strengthen TCU capacity and expand local educational opportunities. All TCUs in Montana serve as community colleges for the reservation, are vital to tribal members’ future, and are the academic heart of a community. This paper describes the Tribal College Faculty Pathways program and interviews with participating faculty, framed through the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) model with a Cultural Interpretive framework. Three themes emerged: commitment to strengthening the Tribe, dedication to remaining in their Tribal communities, and resilience in overcoming time and financial challenges while developing advanced skills and knowledge as the faculty pursue a graduate education.