Hays Native American Study Center

The Hays Native American Studies Center at East Central University, decorated with a variety of American Indian art, has become the "hub" for all activities related to ECU's Native Studies program. 

Located in room 322 in Horace Mann, the Hays Native American Studies Center is the meeting place for the ECU Native American Student Association and other related needs. The space is also used as the main classroom for joint courses on culture and language with the Chickasaw Nation.   

The idea for the Hays Center arose from numerous discussions with ECU administrators, tribal officials, and students. The Chickasaw Nation has generously supported the center. The center is named in honor of Chickasaw Nation citizen Daniel Hays. Hays donated 16 acres of land on which ECU is located. 

"We expect to continue to see great things come from our partnership with East Central University," said Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby. "They have shown unparalleled foresight and commitment to advancing knowledge of Native American culture and other fields of inquiry through this center, the Clemente classes, the native studies minor, and other native studies projects." 

NAS major and minor internships have allowed ECU students to receive firsthand training in various departments at the Chickasaw Nation and other local tribes. Some of the program's recent graduates now work at major metropolitan newspapers and some are enrolled in graduate school or law programs.  

ECU students and Chickasaw Nation citizens also have the opportunity to participate in the Chickasaw language and humanities courses. Students taking the Chickasaw Humanities course to learn about Chickasaw history and culture by exploring western civilization and Chickasaw art, music, poetry, language, culture, written and oral history, education, environment, family patterns, law, and government.  

The Hays Native American Studies Center will continue to offer ECU students the opportunity to learn about Native American languages and cultures while serving the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge.  
 

Daniel Hays