The Haskell Foundation has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to raise $350,000 in support of the Haskell Indian Nations University (HINU) community. Due to recent executive branch actions and personnel cuts, critical university services and student support programs are at risk. The Haskell Foundation has raised over $60,000 (18%) of its goal, but immediate action is needed to bridge the gap and protect essential services for students, faculty, and staff.

Haskell Indian Nations University is a cornerstone of Indigenous higher education, serving Native students nationwide. Recent executive branch actions have resulted in staff reductions and operational challenges, jeopardizing classroom instruction, student academic support services, athletics, dining services, custodial staff, and emergency assistance for students affected by DOGE personnel cuts directly to HINU.

The Haskell Foundation is working closely with HINU leadership and our partners to ensure funds are allocated to mitigate the immediate impact of these disruptions. Donations will support 1) temporary contract extensions for part-time coaches, bus drivers, custodial staff, dining services, and general staff to maintain essential campus functions for at least three months; 2) emergency assistance for students affected by financial aid delays and unexpected hardships; 3) limited relief for displaced employees facing financial instability; 4) funding for long-standing cultural events to ensure the continuity of vital community traditions; 5) support the remaining Haskell staff, which are overwhelmed by the recent personnel reductions; 6) a reserve fund to address unexpected university funding cuts, with assistance provided at the request of the HINU president or their appointee.

This is not just about donations—it’s about action. Haskell needs community members, alumni, and advocates to make their voices heard; 100% of all proceeds go directly to this cause. Donate today—every dollar makes a difference, visit HaskellFoundation.org to contribute. Call your representatives—demand accountability and action to protect Haskell students and staff; find your elected officials here: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials/. Contact the secretary of the interior—urge federal leadership to support Haskell’s mission and ensure sustainable funding; contact info: https://www.doi.gov/contact-us

The Haskell Foundation is not raising funds to rehire federal employees who have been discharged. While we stand in solidarity with those affected, Haskell employees are federal workers, and their employment status must be addressed through the appropriate federal processes. The Haskell University Board of Regents and our partners are actively working to petition these terminations, but currently our focus is on protecting and sustaining the programs, students, and staff who remain at HINU.

The strength of Haskell lies in its people—students, faculty, alumni, and the broader Indigenous community. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that Haskell Indian Nations University continues to thrive in the face of adversity.