BOZEMAN – Montana State University’s program for Native American nursing students received an endowed gift that will help strengthen its mission for years to come.
Housed in the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing, the Caring for Our Own Program, or CO-OP, received a $70,000 donation this spring to establish the Susie Walking Bear Yellowtail endowed fund. The money will support the success of the American Indian and Alaska Native nursing students enrolled in the CO-OP who aim to return home and serve their communities.
Currently, there are 63 students enrolled in the CO-OP program planning to continue their studies fall semester 2026, Larsson said. That includes 11 advanced practice registered nursing (doctoral) students and 52 bachelor’s degree students. An additional 10-12 new students will start in the fall, bringing the CO-OP headcount to about 75 students.
