Elevate the College of Education

Elevate the College of Education

At Northern Arizona University, we are building a future where every student—no matter their background—has the opportunity to turn ambition into achievement and education into opportunity. In the College of Education (COE), we train students who will go on to shape the lives of learners across Arizona and beyond.

There are many ways you can make an impact in the College of Education, where students are at the center of everything we do. Whether you choose to support career readiness, community outreach, scholarships, or another area close to your heart, your investment helps turn today’s students into tomorrow’s educators.

A gift to the College of Education Fund, the Dean’s discretionary account, is an investment in opportunity, innovation, and impact. This flexible fund empowers the Dean to respond quickly to emerging needs and seize unique opportunities that elevate the student experience. From providing emergency assistance to students, to funding groundbreaking research, to launching new programs, this fund ensures that resources are available where they will make the greatest difference—right when they are needed most. Your support gives the Dean the ability to dream big, act fast, and elevate the college’s mission in transformative ways.

Elevate Access for COE Students

Graduate Student Scholarships

Support graduate students by contributing to the College of Education Scholarship Fund. Nearly half of COE students are graduate students, and more than half of NAU’s research doctorates come from our college—helping secure NAU’s prestigious Carnegie R1 status. Graduate education fuels innovation, leadership, and the advancement of knowledge, preparing students to become educators, researchers, and policymakers who shape the future. Your gift provides the resources they need to thrive and make a lasting impact.

Preparing Indigenous Teachers for Arizona Schools

The teacher retention crisis disproportionately impacts rural, Native American communities. NAU launched Preparing Indigenous Teachers for Arizona Schools (PITAS) in 2022 to help paraprofessionals, educational assistants, and others in Native-serving schools earn elementary education degrees and K–8 certification—while continuing to work in their communities. In three years, nearly 50 have enrolled and almost 30 have graduated, with a 90% graduation rate among the first two cohorts. Your support sustains this proven “grow your own” model, providing funding, mentorship, and training so these teachers can return to the classrooms that need them most.

Elevate the Next Generation

The College of Education is preparing the educators, researchers, and leaders our state and nation need. Your generosity helps remove barriers, expand access, and create opportunity—ensuring that every learner, from preschooler to professional—has the chance to thrive.

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If you don’t see the fund you’d like to support above, click here to see a list of all College of Education funds. Thank you for making a difference!