Congressional Affairs
Representing TCU Priorities on Capitol Hill
AIHEC serves as the collective voice of Tribal Colleges and Universities before Congress, working to ensure that TCU priorities are understood and reflected in federal funding and legislation.
AIHEC works with congressional leaders and staff on issues affecting Tribal higher education, providing TCU expertise, data, and recommendations to inform congressional decision-making. This work is grounded in the federal trust and treaty responsibility and the unique role of TCUs as institutions chartered by Tribal Nations to serve their students and communities.
Our Congressional Relations Work
Federal Funding
AIHEC works with Congress to secure the federal investments TCUs need to fulfill their missions and meet the needs of their students and communities.
Congressional Engagement
AIHEC builds bipartisan relationships with members of Congress and congressional staff and creates opportunities for TCU leaders and students to engage directly with policymakers.
Policy & Education
AIHEC provides Congress with TCU expertise, data, and information to inform federal policy and deepen understanding of Tribal Colleges and Universities, Tribal higher education, and the federal responsibilities to Tribal Nations.
Congressional Affairs Resources
America Competes Reauthorization Act of 2010
August 25, 2025
Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Assistance Act of 1978
August 25, 2025
Synder Act: Haskell Indian Nations University and Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute Funding Authorization
August 25, 2025
Navajo Community College Act (Diné College)
August 25, 2025
Institute of American Indian Arts Authorization: Higher Education Act Amendments of 1986
August 25, 2025
Equity in Educational Land Grant Status Act
August 25, 2025
Higher Education Act: Title III Institutional Aid
August 25, 2025
AIHEC Statement on FY 2025 Federal Funding Increase for Tribal Colleges and Universities
October 14, 2025