SPRING 2026 COMMENCEMENT

Congratulations NTU Graduates!

General Information

Commencement Speaker

Tom Davis

WORLD INDIGENOUS NATIONS UNIVERSITY HONORARY DOCTORATE – EDUCATION (EDD) RECIPIENT AND COMMENCEMENT

Tom Davis began his career in Indian education at the Menominee County Community School, one of the early tribally controlled schools established during the Indian self-determination movement. He later helped found the College of Menominee Nation, where he played a key role in its early development before serving as Planning Director. He was also actively involved with the Coalition of Indian Controlled School Boards as it advanced landmark initiatives such as Title IV of the Indian Education Act, helping lay the foundation for today’s tribal schools, colleges, and universities.

Over the course of his career, Davis has served as a tribal college president, a leader in national Native higher education organizations, and a consultant to tribal nations and institutions across the country. His work has focused on strengthening tribal sovereignty through education, institution-building, and economic development. A recognized authority on tribal higher education and Native nation-building, Davis has contributed to the growth and advancement of tribal colleges and universities for more than five decades. His leadership has helped shape policies, institutions, and strategies that continue to expand educational opportunity and support sustainable development throughout Indian Country.

In addition to his work in higher education, Davis is the author of 15 novels, poetry collections, and nonfiction books.