Higher Education Program helps turn dreams into reality

Kali Chargualaf ’s official title is Higher Education Program Manager. But a more descriptive title might be Facilitator of Dreams or even Fairy Godmother.

That’s because through the Suquamish Tribe’s Higher Education Program, Chargualaf helps tribal members pursue higher education degrees, certificates, and vocational-technical training programs.

Whether you’re interested in becoming an air traffic controller, a zoologist, or pursuing any other career path from A to Z, tribal members with a high school diploma or GED may be eligible to apply for financial assistance. And for those who do not yet have a GED, Chargualaf can connect them with programs and resources to help them earn one.

“The accomplishments of the Higher Education Program really come from the students themselves,” Chargualaf said. “Each year we’re seeing more students enroll in the program or return as they continue progressing toward new educational goals.”

Students can continue receiving support as they advance through multiple levels of higher education, from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and even a doctorate.

In addition to providing educational funding and resources, the Higher Education Program oversees:

• High School Career Fair, connecting students to colleges, trade schools, and military services, now held every spring.

• Graduate Honoring to celebrate students’ achievements from high school and beyond,held every summer.

• Summer Youth Internship Program, in partnership with the Workforce Program (also known as 477 yusawiac) providing students with work experience across tribal government every summer. Applications will open in late spring 2027 for openings next year.

• The Higher Education Program also manages a Computer Lab where tribal members can work in a quiet space and utilize desktop computers, printers, and meeting spaces.

“The Computer Lab is a great place to help higher education students with their applications and essays, as well as a place where people can come to access online

trainings and certifications,” Chargualaf said. “And, if people need a little extra assistance with computers, I am here to help.”

In the four years Chargualaf has served in the Higher Education Program, she’s grown to see the job as a combination of being a mentor, cheerleader, strategist, and believer.

“I was a first-generation college student, and I understand the difficulties of navigating college,” she said. “I’m here to help tribal members pursue their educational goals and find programs that best fit their interests and needs.”

While the Higher Education Program may not turn pumpkins into carriages, what it does is even more impressive. It transforms lives through education, opens doors to new careers, and invests in the future of the Suquamish Tribe.

Higher Education Nuts & Bolts

Higher Education offers support services and funding to enrolled Suquamish tribal members who meet the eligibility requirements.

To apply, students must be enrolled in a program of study, attending an accredited institution of higher education such as technical colleges, community colleges, and four-year colleges and universities. Funding depends on availability.

Application deadlines:

· Winter Quarter/Spring Semester: December 1

· Spring Quarter: February 1

· Summer Quarter: May 1

· Fall Quarter: July 1

The Computer Lab is located in the Old Tribal Center and is open Monday – Thursday from 8am to 4:30pm Questions? Contact Kali Chargualaf at HigherEd@Suquamish.nsn.us or (360) 394-1328.