The University of Minnesota's Board of Regents meeting on May 9, 2025, spotlighted significant advancements in Native American affairs, as presented by Karen Diver, the senior advisor to the president. Diver's annual update highlighted the launch of the long-awaited PhD program in American Indian Studies, which welcomed its first cohort of five students from a pool of 33 applicants. This milestone marks a pivotal moment for the university, which was the first in the nation to establish an American Indian studies department but had not previously offered a doctoral program.

Diver emphasized the importance of maintaining stable faculty within the American Indian studies department, noting recent faculty movements and ongoing recruitment efforts. The university's Native American Promise Tuition Program was also discussed, which aims to alleviate financial barriers for Native American students by supplementing federal and state aid. Diver reported that this initiative has helped stabilize enrollment figures, maintaining numbers without significant loss.

In addition to educational advancements, Diver addressed the university's commitment to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). She announced progress in repatriating the Mimbres collection, with the Hopi tribe set to reclaim their ancestors and funerary objects in the fall. The university's proactive approach in consulting with tribal representatives has fostered positive relationships and transparency throughout the process.

Diver also introduced a new community of practice for tribal liaisons, aimed at enhancing communication between the university and tribal governments. This initiative is designed to facilitate collaboration on research and workforce development, particularly in healthcare, which has been identified as a priority by tribal leaders.

The meeting concluded with Diver expressing optimism about future collaborations and the ongoing development of resources to support Native American students and communities. The Board of Regents is expected to continue discussions on these initiatives, particularly in light of potential changes in federal and state funding that could impact the Native American Promise Tuition Program.