American Indian Higher Education Consortium

The American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC), based in Alexandria, VA, serves as the primary advocacy and support organization for 37 Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) across the United States. AIHEC provides comprehensive technical assistance, policy leadership, and programmatic support to member institutions working to expand educational opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native students. The organization influences federal policy on American Indian higher education through evidence-based research, advocacy initiatives, and strategic partnerships with federal agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations. AIHEC's core services include technical assistance in key operational areas, peer networking and mentorship for established and developing TCUs, policy research and analysis, and program development addressing emerging educational needs. The consortium promotes Indigenous language preservation, cultural strengthening, and tribal sovereignty through targeted initiatives including the STEM Initiative, Health Initiative, Cyberinfrastructure programs, and the Land Grant Sovereignty Initiative. AIHEC operates as a 501(c)(3) organization governed by a board composed of accredited TCU presidents, ensuring member-driven decision-making and accountability. Through its unique position serving the tribal higher education sector, AIHEC generates significant economic impact—TCUs collectively contributed 3.8 billion in economic growth in 2022-2023 while supporting over 160,000 students annually. The organization's work directly strengthens rural economies, supports job creation, and upholds federal trust and treaty obligations to tribal nations.