DURANT– The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Learning & Development Department in partnership with Southeastern Oklahoma State University is proud to announce the launch of its newest endeavor, Choctaw University. The purpose of Choctaw University (Choctaw U) is to grow knowledge and skills of all associates by instilling a deeper understanding of their purpose within the organization. Participants will receive superior professional development training, build knowledge, and improve their skills to be more efficient and productive leaders. Choctaw U includes two series for development, the Leadership Series and the Continuing Education Series.

According to Susan Stockton, executive director of Human Resources for the Choctaw Nation, “Developing highly skilled, highly qualified workers is the goal of every organization. Choctaw University is about more than professional development…it’s about empowering our associates to advance and succeed in the organization while achieving the dream of higher education.”

The five levels of training within Choctaw U mirror that of a standard university. The official launch of Choctaw U was Jan. 26, 2012. More than 100 people have made the first year-long commitment to Choctaw U. The participants attended the orientation at Choctaw Casino and Resorts in Durant. During the meeting, participants learned how the program builds on Chief Greg Pyle’s long-term vision of growing and sustaining the tribe. Choctaw U challenges this group of leaders to begin planning towards the next century of the Choctaw people.

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Southeastern Oklahoma State University have created a partnership with a goal to achieving college credit for the Leadership Series of Choctaw U. Courses included in this agreement include Leading Generational Diversity, Transformational Leadership, Managing People, Effective Coaching and Mentoring, Change Management, and Succession Planning.

“We are enabling our associates to grow into positions across our many business enterprises while helping them complete their college education,” says Tana Sanders, director of Learning and Development.