Cherokee Nation Principal Chief to Speak at RSU’s 2024 Spring Commencement

[Link]Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation Chuck Hoskin Jr. will deliver the address to graduates during Rogers State University's 2024 Spring Commencement ceremonies May 11. The first ceremony for graduates of the College of Professional Studies will take place at 10 a.m. and the second ceremony for graduates of the College of Arts and Sciences will take place that afternoon at 1:30 p.m. Both ceremonies will be held at the Claremore Expo Center.

Hoskin serves as Principal Chief of the largest tribe in the United States, with more than 460,000 citizens. Through his leadership, the Cherokee Nation has developed key strategic partnerships with RSU, including support of nursing and allied health programs, RSU-TV, public safety and campus infrastructure projects.

Before he was elected in 2019, and re-elected in 2023, Chief Hoskin served as the Cherokee Nation's Secretary of State, as well as Deputy Speaker of the Council of the Cherokee Nation.

As Principal Chief, he has increased minimum wage at Cherokee Nation and Cherokee Nation Businesses and secured the largest language investment in the tribe's history to expand Cherokee cultural preservation. He also appointed the tribe's first Cherokee Nation delegate to the U.S. Congress.

Hoskin prioritized several health and wellness initiatives, including record investments in behavioral health and addiction treatment. He has also expanded tribal workforce training programs, sustainable housing, protections for natural resources, and educational opportunities for Cherokees of all ages.

He, along with First Lady January Hoskin, has elevated the voices of women and children, and their safety and wellbeing, within the Cherokee Nation Reservation.

For more information about RSU's commencement ceremonies, contact the Office of Academic Affairs at 918-343-7615 or visit www.rsu.edu/commencement.