Southern Miss to Establish Native American Residential Communities

The University of Southern Mississippi Department of Residence Life will establish two Native American residential communities on campus beginning fall 2012 semester. The purpose of these living-learning communities is to help make the transition to college smoother for Native American students and offer them a home at Southern Miss where their culture can be strengthened.

“I am very pleased that we are taking a step in this direction,” said Dr. Tammy Greer, associate professor and director of the Center for American Indian Research and Studies. “In doing this, we are making room for Native students and students with an interest in Native issues, to grow and develop this central aspect of Native culture and community right here on campus, even as they leave home for a while to pursue their educational goals.”

“I agree that it is a great addition for Southern Miss to house these communities on campus and bring Native students from different tribes together,” said Danielle Isaac, a senior social work major from Choctaw, Miss. “Through living together on campus, students will be able to learn from and confide in one another as they grow and develop.”

Native American students – who are admitted to the University – wishing to live in campus housing designated for students interested in Native American cultures should contact Justin Long, associate director of Residence Life for assignments and student relations, at 601.266.4783 or justin.longFREEMississippi.

For more information about the Department of Residence Life and its programs, visit www.usm.edu/residence-life.