WGU's Commitment to Tribal Communities
By Jake Riddell, PR & Communications, Northwest
On a chilly afternoon in northwest Montana, leaders from Blackfeet Community College and Western Governors University formalized a partnership rooted in shared values and a commitment to creating access to opportunity. The ceremonial signing in the heart of the Blackfeet Nation marked a new chapter in higher education—a story of connection, growth, and resilience.
Among the attendees was Skye Gilham, a proud member of the Blackfeet Tribe and a graduate of WGU’s Master of Education in Learning and Technology program. For Skye, the moment was deeply personal. Not only did her university honor her with the Distinguished Graduate Award, but the ceremony also commemorated BFCC’s 50th anniversary, an institution to which she has strong ties. For Skye, the BFCC-WGU partnership symbolizes higher education’s potential to improve individual lives and uplift entire communities.
Leaders gather for the ceremonial signing of the WGU-BFCC partnership, including (front row, l. to r.) BFCC President Dr. Brad Hall, WGU Regional Vice President Dr. Tonya Drake, and (back row, third from right) former Montana Governor Steve Bullock.
“Education isn’t just about degrees or jobs,” Skye shared, reflecting on her journey. “It’s about strengthening our community, preserving our history, and creating opportunities for the next generation.”
A Pathway to Opportunity
Skye’s story begins in her home community, where her passion for education and technology became a driving force. At BFCC, she worked as a STEM instructor, mentoring students and developing training programs for faculty. But her aspirations extended beyond the classroom. Skye sought a way to contribute to the broader Blackfeet community while honoring its cultural heritage.
That’s when she found WGU.
“The flexibility of WGU’s program was a perfect fit,” she said. “I could earn my degree without leaving my home, my family, or my work. WGU made it possible to stay connected to my roots while achieving my goals.”
Today, Skye uses her education to preserve the Blackfeet Tribe’s traditions and history. She’s deeply involved in biomedical research and cultural preservation efforts. In September, she started a position with The National Center For American Indian Enterprise Development. Skye also serves on the Montana State Burial Board and Glacier County Economic Development Board and mentors young leaders in her community.
Her work doesn’t stop there. As a liaison between BFCC and WGU, Skye is helping others discover opportunities through higher education—opportunities made even more accessible by the newly established partnership between the two institutions.
Aligning Mission and Vision
The collaboration between BFCC and WGU offers Blackfeet’s current and future alumni and employees a seamless pathway to further their education through WGU’s fully online bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs.
For students like Skye, who balance education with work, family, and community responsibilities, WGU’s competency-based model provides a personalized learning experience. Tuition is also about half the national average, making higher education an attainable goal for many.
“Aligning with WGU creates new opportunities for our graduates and employees to continue their education with an institution that truly understands the importance of flexibility for online learners,” said Dr. Brad Hall, President of Blackfeet Community College. “With this partnership, students can pursue high-quality degree programs without quitting their jobs or moving away from the community, allowing them to stay connected to their roots while advancing their education and careers. We are excited to offer expanded access to programs that align with the needs of our students and the Blackfeet Nation.”
WGU Regional Vice President Dr. Tonya Drake (second from left) presented WGU alum and BFCC instructor Skye Gilham (third from left) with the university's Distinguished Graduate Award.
BFCC’s partnership with WGU is one of several WGU has established with tribal colleges across the nation, including Fort Peck Community College (MT), Northwest Indian College (WA), and White Earth Tribal and Community College (MN). These partnerships exemplify WGU’s mission to serve traditionally underserved populations and honor tribal communities’ unique strengths and challenges.
Building on Tradition
Skye Gilham’s journey is a testament to the power of education to transform not just individuals but entire communities. Her work reflects the values at the heart of the partnership between BFCC and WGU—fostering growth while staying rooted in tradition.
“WGU’s partnerships with tribal colleges are about more than education,” said Dr. Tonya Drake, Regional Vice President for WGU Northwest. “They are about respecting heritage, supporting communities, and creating pathways for learners to thrive. Skye’s story is a shining example of what’s possible when opportunity and tradition come together.”
A Future of Possibilities
As the signing ceremony came to a close, the Blackfeet Rawhide Singers beat buffalo skin drums and performed honor songs to recognize and celebrate the importance of that day's events. There was a shared sense of excitement and reflection in the room. For BFCC graduates and employees, the partnership with WGU represents new horizons—a chance to pursue dreams without leaving their community.
For Skye, the moment reinforced her belief in the transformative power of education.
“We have the tools to build a strong, thriving Blackfeet Nation,” she said, her voice full of pride and determination. “This partnership is another step toward making that vision a reality.”
A shared vision. One of empowerment, respect, and success.
