Eastern Cherokee Chief Michell Hicks signs the agreement with UNC Asheville Chancellor Mary K. Grant. Photo from UNCA

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the University of North Carolina Asheville signed an agreement to strengthen their relationship.

The agreement, which was written in English and the Cherokee syllabary, reserves admission slots for tribal members whose tuition will be paid by the tribe. The tribe and the university will work together on academic, cultural and internship courses and programs.

The agreement was written in English and the Cherokee syllabary. Photo from UNCA

“The Eastern Band is honored to be partnering with the University of North Carolina at Asheville on this important initiative,” Chief Michell Hicks said in a press release. “I appreciate the university embracing Cherokee students, history and culture and we look forward to a long productive relationship with the university.”

The school will help students form a chapter of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society as part of the agreement.

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UNC Asheville, Eastern Band of Cherokee sign agreement (The Asheville Citizen-Times 5/2)