Cherokee Nation launches incentive program for employee college degrees

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. signed a new employee policy on June 5 that offers financial incentives to government employees who complete college degrees, according to the Cherokee Phoenix. The Workforce Development Program provides a range of rewards from $2,000 for associate degrees to $5,000 for doctoral degrees.

The policy applies retroactively to October 2019 and includes nearly 5,800 government employees. Employees must meet performance standards, complete accredited programs and commit to one to three years of service depending on the degree level. Deputy Chief Bryan Warner said the policy reflects Cherokee community values. Executive Director of Human Resources Samantha Hendricks said it supports retention and development. The policy supplements existing tuition assistance and follows other employee-focused initiatives, including paid family leave and flexible spending accounts for eligible employees.