Thomas Daschle: “earlier this week I had the honor and pleasure of meeting with the presidents, faculty and student leaders from South…”

“earlier this week I had the honor and pleasure of meeting with the presidents, faculty and student leaders from South Dakota's tribal colleges to talk about the educational needs of Native Americans and the crucial role tribal colleges play in strengthening tribal communities. It was a fascinating conversation. We sat around a table in my office in the United States Capitol building talking about the hopes and aspirations of the next generation of Native American leaders. Every one of those young people had good ideas and the poise and self-confidence to express them. As the participants spoke of the importance and the power of education as the key to unlock the promise of the future, the story I heard was not one of bricks and mortar, but rather one of enduring spirit, sense of community and hope for a better quality of life. Listening to the discussion and observing the people in the room, I had no doubt that the future of Indian Country is in good hands. Tribal colleges and universities play a critical role in educating Native Americans across the country, and I have come to believe they may well be the best kept secret in higher education.”