Cook College & Theological School has been educating, enabling, and empowering Native Americans to pursue ministry and leadership positions on reservations and urban settings for nearly 100 years. Since many Native American churches are without educated, prepared pastoral leadership, Cook's development of lay leadership is crucial to the survival of Christian witness and discipleship among Native American people.

Throughout its history, the School has emphasized respect for the cultural values and spirituality of Native Americans. Students are free to share and apply their cultural values in the school environment. The Mission Statement of the School gives insight into its goals: "In light of indigenous experiences, students are nurtured in their development as Christian leaders so that they can express the Gospel in meaningful ways to the diverse cultures to which they may be called."

Students from 90 different tribes across the continent have become lay ministers to their people. Many of the graduates have gone on to seminaries. Others have distinguished themselves in positions of leadership in both church and tribal governments.

Dr. Joseph Dudley, President of the School notes. "I want Cook College & Theological School to be recognized as a college that produces the most dynamic, effective and powerful Native American leaders in the church. They must be leaders and ministers who are prepared to deal with the challenges they will face when they minister to Native American Churches and communities."

Cook College has changed the lives of many graduates with its culturally relevant and respectful educational programs and, in turn, Cook's graduates are changing the lives of the many people they are serving.

I want to make a contribution to the work of this mission!