FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (Feb. 6, 2025)  —  The Arizona Lottery is proud to announce the continuation of its partnership with Northern Arizona University (NAU), reaffirming its commitment to supporting Native and Indigenous students in higher education. Through a renewed $25,000 contribution, the Arizona Lottery will fully fund five students to participate in NAU’s Honors Native American Summer Research Program (HNASRP) in June 2025.

Since its inception in 2022, HNASRP has provided Indigenous students with invaluable opportunities to engage in intensive academic research, gain mentorship from faculty and peers, and present their findings at a final symposium. This initiative has played a pivotal role in shaping future leaders within Indigenous communities, and the Arizona Lottery is honored to help sustain its impact.

The program has already produced remarkable outcomes. HNASRP alumna Chiara Holgate was awarded the prestigious Udall Scholarship, recognizing her commitment to environmental policy and Native American issues. Additionally, Sara Honanie, a 2024 HNASRP researcher, conducted groundbreaking work on Hopi Educational Systems focusing on boarding school initiatives. Her research, mentored by Dr. Darold Joseph, Director of NAU’s Institute for Native-Serving Educators, underscores the program’s dedication to preserving Indigenous knowledge and advancing educational equity.

“The Arizona Lottery is proud to continue investing in programs that uplift Indigenous students and provide them with transformative educational experiences,” said Arizona Lottery Executive Director Alec Thomson. “NAU’s Honors Native American Summer Research Program has proven to be a catalyst for student success, and we are thrilled to support another cohort of future leaders.”

Supporting higher education remains a cornerstone of the Arizona Lottery’s mission. A portion of Lottery ticket sales helps generate funding for the University Bond Fund and Tribal College Dual Enrollment Fund, which collectively provided more than $37 million for Arizona students in the last fiscal year.

NAU and the Arizona Lottery encourage eligible students to apply for the Summer 2025 HNASRP cohort. Applications are now open, and interested students can learn more at nau.edu/hnasrp.

For more information on Arizona Lottery Gives Back initiatives, visit www.ArizonaLottery.com/GivesBack.