CLAREMORE, Okla. — Cherokee Nation and Rogers State University signed a memorandum of understanding Tuesday, Aug. 18, during a ceremony in Claremore, formalizing a partnership aimed at expanding clinical training opportunities for nursing, behavioral health and allied health students.
The agreement allows Rogers State University students and faculty to gain hands-on clinical experience across Cherokee Nation’s healthcare system, including W.W. Hastings Hospital and health centers in Claremore, Nowata, Salina, Sallisaw, Stilwell, Tahlequah, Vinita and other communities. Under the MOU, Cherokee Nation will provide clinical placement space, orientation and supervision support, while Rogers State University retains responsibility for student selection, curriculum and faculty oversight.
“This partnership reflects Cherokee Nation’s ongoing commitment to growing a homegrown healthcare workforce,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “By opening our doors to Rogers State University’s nursing and allied health students, we are investing in the next generation of providers who will serve our patients and communities for years to come.”
The MOU also establishes a joint healthcare workforce workgroup between the two institutions. The workgroup will focus on nursing workforce development, including education pathways, scholarships and pipeline programs, as well as behavioral and mental health workforce development and future healthcare education opportunities, including initiatives based in Claremore.
“Healthcare workforce shortages are a challenge across Oklahoma and Indian Country,” said Deputy Chief Bryan Warner. “Agreements like this one with Rogers State University help us build a pipeline of skilled professionals right here at home, and they strengthen the relationship between Cherokee Nation and our university partners in Claremore.”
This agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between Cherokee Nation and Rogers State University. In May 2024, the Nation committed up to $4 million toward construction of RSU’s Center for Science and Technology, along with a 10-year commitment to fund tuition and mandatory fees for up to ten Cherokee Nation citizens annually in RSU’s nursing program.
“This MOU is another example of the strong partnership between Cherokee Nation and Rogers State University,” said District 1 Councilor Sasha Blackfox-Qualls, who serves as chair of the health committee for the Council of the Cherokee Nation. “Council remains committed to supporting agreements that open the door for our citizens to pursue careers in nursing and healthcare close to home.”
The agreement runs through May 31, 2027, and will automatically renew annually unless either party cancels or terminates it. No funds will be exchanged between the two institutions as part of the partnership.