Native Forward, formerly known as American Indian Graduate Center, is featured on MacKenzie Scott’s new Yield Giving website. The organization received $20 million from Scott.
After Scott announced her intention to give away most of her fortune in 2020, Native Forward was among the first group of 116 organizations driving change.
“Scott's interest in trust-based philanthropy and her passion for equity have empowered our organization and the students we serve more than we could have ever imagined,” said Native Forward CEO Angelique Albert. “We are hopeful that other philanthropic leaders will take a cue from Scott’s philosophy and contribute to nonprofits with the trust that they know how to best serve their communities.”
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During its 53 years, Native Forward has empowered over 20,000 Indigenous students from over 500 Tribes in all 50 states with financial aid, as well as holistic support throughout their college journeys. Its alumni are among the country’s most powerful and influential Native leaders, including U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Kim Teehee, who could become the first Cherokee delegate to the U.S. Congress.
Native Forward, which recently opened a new headquarters in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
In February, Native Forward will hold a Hall of Fame ceremony in Washington, D.C., honoring some of the most impactful Native leaders in the country whose advocacy and financial contributions continue to empower generations of Indigenous students.
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At a critical moment for Indian Country, Native News Online is embarking on our most ambitious reporting project yet: "Cultivating Culture," a three-year investigation into two forces shaping Native community survival—food sovereignty and language revitalization.
The devastating impact of COVID-19 accelerated the loss of Native elders and with them, irreplaceable cultural knowledge. Yet across tribal communities, innovative leaders are fighting back, reclaiming traditional food systems and breathing new life into Native languages. These aren't just cultural preservation efforts—they're powerful pathways to community health, healing, and resilience.
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