Choctaw Nation Career Development

06/05/2026

If this is a program that interests you, Career Development may be able to assist you with the cost of the training! Reach out to our office at 866-933-2260.

Kiamichi Technology Centers

06/04/2026

Introducing graduate Miranda Surginer! She sent us this to share with you-
"As a proud member of the Choctaw Nation, I am deeply grateful for the support I have received throughout my educational journey. Career Development provided invaluable guidance through the financial aspects of this process and connected me with resources that helped make this achievement possible. I am also thankful for my Choctaw Nation work family, whose encouragement, understanding, and support of my commitment to furthering my education have meant so much to me.
The Choctaw Nation has been a source of support throughout every stage of my life. During my childhood, the tribe provided support and opportunities for my family that otherwise would not have existed. Later, through my employment with the Choctaw Nation, I gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of Choctaw culture, values, and service. That experience inspired me to continue growing professionally with the purpose of better serving our tribe and community. It is because of those opportunities, guidance, and support that I am able to say I am where I am today and that I have had the honor to serve the tribe for almost 16 years.
It is an honor like no other to work for an organization that allows me to openly live out and prioritize my faith, family, and culture while pursuing both personal and professional growth. Those values are the foundation of who I am and continue to inspire me every day.
Earning my Juris Doctor degree and successfully passing the Oklahoma Bar Exam to become licensed to practice law has strengthened my ability to serve as a servant leader dedicated to helping build a stronger and more sustainable future for our tribe and those we serve. Yakoke to Career Development and to everyone who helped me achieve this incredible milestone."
Congratulations to you Miranda! Yakoke for your inspiring words and willingness to share. We see wonderful things ahead in your future!

06/03/2026

Meet Dr. Allie Sallee MD. She recently graduated with distinction from the University of Oklahoma College of medicine. Hear how the Choctaw Nation helped her during medical school

“Working with the Choctaw Nation Career Development Team inspired me to continue pressing forward whenever school seemed too tough! Their financial and personal support helped me excel in medical school!”

And a special note from her Career Counselor, Marianne Akins- "Allie graduated in the to 6%-10% of her class and will begin her residency program in general surgery. She is a true example of how hard work and determination pays off and we are so happy to be a part of this journey with her! "

06/02/2026

Congratulations to Taylor Benton on completing her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential!
We are so proud of your hard work, dedication, and perseverance in reaching this accomplishment. Your compassion and servant’s heart will make a difference in the lives of so many people. Wishing you much success and many blessings in your nursing career! Congratulations, Taylor — your future is bright!

Taylor shared the following with us: I am proud to announce my completion as a Certified Nursing Assistant! Through my education and hands-on experience, I have gained the skills and knowledge to provide compassionate patient care. I am currently employed with Oxford Home Health, where I continue to grow in the healthcare field. I am especially thankful for Career Development for helping me further my education and career by supporting me throughout this journey. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited for what’s ahead!

06/01/2026

Reminder--Summer school is ramping up but you do NOT have to fill out a new application for summer funding but you DO have to send in your recent grades and upcoming schedule. Please call 866-933-2260 if you have any questions.

06/01/2026

It's Graduation season and we LOVE highlighting our clients and their stories. If you are a recent graduate and a Career Development client, please share your information and a picture with us so we can celebrate with you!
You worked hard to reach your goal and it deserves to be acknowledged.
You can send info to your career counselor or you can email it to
[email protected]

05/30/2026

Meet Maison Guerra!
She sent this note of thanks to share-
“I recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science and a minor in Psychology. Earning this degree required years of dedication, perseverance, and hard work, but I did not achieve it alone. The educational assistance provided by the Tribe helped me focus on my studies and pursue opportunities that prepared me for a successful career in healthcare. With the Tribe's help, I was able to graduate in 3 years with the assistance I received during high school as a concurrent student of the Higher Education Program.
In addition to supporting my academic journey, the Tribe also provided funding that allowed me to complete a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative certification. This opportunity expanded my knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry, strengthened my professional skills, and gave me valuable insight into healthcare sales and patient-focused solutions. The certification helped me gain confidence and better prepare for entering the workforce after graduation.
Today, I am proud to have begun my career as a Pharmacy Sales Representative with DFW Wellness Pharmacy. In this role, I work to build relationships with healthcare providers, educate customers about pharmacy services, and help connect patients with resources that can improve their quality of life. My education and professional training have given me a strong foundation to succeed, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead.
To other tribal members pursuing their educational goals, I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity available to you. Success is built through persistence, hard work, and a willingness to keep moving forward even when challenges arise. The support provided by the Tribe can open doors, but it is your determination and commitment that will carry you through them. Believe in yourself, ask questions, seek mentorship, and never be afraid to pursue goals that seem ambitious.
I am incredibly grateful to Chief Batton, the Tribal Council, and everyone involved in supporting educational and professional development programs. Your investment in tribal members creates opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Because of your support, I was able to earn my degree, obtain professional certification, and begin a career that I am passionate about. Thank you for believing in the future of tribal citizens and helping make achievements like mine possible.”
Congratulations on your accomplishments Maison! We see great things ahead for you!

05/29/2026

We LOVE seeing the success of our clients! Congrats to you Peggy!

Peggy Sue Robinson Lukas’s educational journey is a powerful example of perseverance, determination, and the courage to pursue dreams at any stage of life. Peggy began college in 1990, but like many students, life presented challenges that led her to pause her education. Years later, carrying a lingering sense of unfinished goals, Peggy realized she still deeply wanted to complete what she had started—but was unsure if it was possible.
With the support of the Choctaw Nation Higher Education Program and Career Development, along with encouragement from family and friends, Peggy made the decision to return to school. Although balancing life’s responsibilities with coursework brought its own challenges—especially through online classes—Peggy remained committed to her goal.
At the age of 67, Peggy proudly earned her degree in Physical Education and Recreation, proving that determination has no age limit.
Peggy hopes to bring her knowledge and experience back to the Choctaw Nation community, helping others—especially elders—lead healthier, happier lives. Peggy lives by the belief: “Dreams never expire.”
Peggy expresses deep gratitude to everyone who supported Peggy’s journey: “I want to thank everyone that made my dream come true.”
The Choctaw Nation Higher Education program celebrates Peggy Sue Robinson Lukas as an inspiring role model for lifelong learning and resilience.🎉🎉

05/29/2026

Brandon Newberry is at the Work Ready Oklahoma Job and Resource Fair today. The event is at the Bell Tower on the 3rd floor from 10-2

05/29/2026

Another to highlight!

Raleigh Moseley graduated from Washington State University in Pullman with a double major in Accounting and Management Information Systems. He plans to study for the CPA exam and work in public accounting. Raleigh is currently employed as a Data Analyst at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, using my MIS degree. Congratulations!