Welcome to UM's Native American Gateway
Nestled in the heart of Western Montana's stunning natural landscape and the aboriginal territories of the Salish and Kalispel people, the University of Montana draws a diverse population of students, faculty and researchers who are committed to cultivating an educated and engaged community to meet the needs of the world around us. Woven into this mission is a deep connection to native traditions and a celebration of Indigenous cultures.
Native students at UM receive a world-class education in a broad range of subjects – from health care to law to media arts – while being supported and nurtured by faculty and organizations committed to their success. In return, they serve as valuable leaders on campus, building UM's future as well as their own.
Native Voices at UM
Native Student Recruitment and Retention
For many generations the Salish, Kootenai, Pend d'Oreille and other tribes, including the Blackfeet, Nez Perce, Shoshone, Bannock, and Coeur D'Alene, have shaped and influenced the landscape, purpose and impact of education in the Missoula Valley.
Core to UM's institutional mission is to ensure Native students are provided continued access to higher education, an opportunity for success at UM and a meaningful community for support. This commitment involves listening and partnering with our tribal partners and communities to ensure we design opportunities for future tribal leaders, writers, scientists, artists and educators.
At UM, Native students begin a journey of self and community actualization, turning their talents and voices into applied impact across the country. Here, Native students have the opportunity to breathe purpose into their life's work as Native Griz.
UM Land Acknowledgment
English
"The University of Montana acknowledges that we are in the aboriginal territories of Seliš (Salish) and Qlispé (Kalispel) people. We honor the path they have always shown us in caring for this place for the generations to come."
Salish
Es mistéʔes qe es lʔ, ci łu l ,T,atʔ̓ ayaqn u Qlispélixʷ sqlixʷúʔulexʷs t Nłʔaycčstm Kʷtis Snacx̓ ̣łqe̓ ym̓ ín. Qe es putʔem łu Sqélixʷ m̓ im̓ éʔeye̓ ms x̣ʷl ,olqʷštulexʷ łu x̣ʷl ,qł sqlqelixʷ.