Whereas there are 36 Tribal Colleges and Universities operating on more than 75 campuses in 16 States; Whereas Tribal Colleges and Universities are tribally chartered or federally chartered institutions of higher education and therefore have a unique relationship with the Federal Government; Whereas Tribal Colleges and Universities serve students from more than 250 federally recognized Indian tribes; Whereas Tribal Colleges and Universities offer students access to knowledge and skills grounded in cultural traditions and values, including indigenous languages, which— (1) enhances Indian communities; and (2) enriches the United States as a nation; Whereas Tribal Colleges and Universities provide access to high-quality postsecondary educational opportunities for— (1) American Indians; (2) Alaska Natives; and (3) other individuals that live in some of the most isolated and economically depressed areas in the United States; Whereas Tribal Colleges and Universities are accredited institutions of higher education that effectively prepare students to succeed in— (1) the academic pursuits of the students; and (2) the global and highly competitive workforce; Whereas Tribal Colleges and Universities have open enrollment policies, and approximately 15 percent of the students at Tribal Colleges and Universities are non-Indian individuals; and Whereas the collective mission and the considerable achievements of Tribal Colleges and Universities deserve national recognition: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week beginning February 11, 2018, as National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week ; and (2) calls on the people of the United States and interested groups to observe National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to demonstrate support for Tribal Colleges and Universities.