FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 02/20/2026
Media Contact:
Marissa Lewis, Marketing Coordinator
(918) 549-2856
College of Muscogee Nation Hosts Oklahoma Native Students in Higher Education Conference
OKMULGEE, Okla. – February 13th and 14th the College of the Muscogee Nation hosted the Oklahoma Native American Students in Higher Education (ONASHE) conference. The two-day event consisted of a keynote banquet on 2/13 and the full conference day 2/14.
The ONASHE conference had around 100 attendees. There were roundtable discussions, workshops, ONASHE awards, and two CMN presentations. The two programs highlighted were CMN extension which they presented on Yaupon Holly with a toast and the Master Apprentice program on the Mvskoke language.
Jess Waterdown won the Up & Coming Leader award for 2025-26. “I enjoyed the workshops, getting to speak with those from different places, and feeling supported by friends and family” said Waterdown. He stated,” I believe it is important (winning the award) because I did not think I could win an award or be thought of as a leader. It is encouraging”.
The College of the Muscogee Nation was honored to host this year’s conference. It was rewarding for everyone to share their successes and ways to collaborate while supporting the overall Native community.
A full listing of information and pictures from the ONASHE conference can be found on its website at www.cmn.edu/onashe
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The College of the Muscogee Nation is Oklahoma’s premiere Tribal College offering excellent degree programs and vital student services to develop graduates into formidable leaders in tribal and non-tribal sectors.