The Shinnecock Nation of New York is interested in starting the first tribal college in the East.

The tribe has had preliminary discussions to operate a college on the satellite campus of Stony Brook University in Southampton, near the reservation. The tribe's presence, along with federal funding, could help resolve financial concerns about the campus.

"Having a tribal college would be extremely beneficial to our tribal members, and we would absolutely want it accredited," trustee Lance Gumbs told The East Hampton Press.

The college is years away, a spokesperson said, but it could be a first for tribes in the region. The United South and Eastern Tribes has discussed a tribal college.

Get the Story:
Shinnecock Nation explores opening tribal college at Stony Brook Southampton site (The East Hampton Press 6/23)

Federal Register Notice:
Final Determination for Federal Acknowledgment of the Shinnecock Indian Nation (June 18, 2010)

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Shinnecock Nation expects phone call on federal recognition (6/15)