Southeastern and Choctaw Nation announce continuation of tuition deferral plan for CNO associates

November 12, 2025

Southeastern Oklahoma State University and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) are pleased to announce the renewal of a memorandum of understanding where Choctaw Nation associates can defer tuition at Southeastern.

The Choctaw Nation currently employs over 12,000 associates who can defer tuition at Southeastern with a degree plan approved through the CNO’s Employee Education Assistance Program.

“The Choctaw Nation has long been one of the largest and most collaborative partners of Southeastern, not only through our proximity, but through our shared vision for mutual success,” said Southeastern president Dr. David Whitlock. “We’re proud that we’ve been able to work together to help the Nation’s employees work towards a degree plan that will then help the Choctaw Nation and our region.”

“Education is one of the foundational keys to all good things that happen at the Choctaw Nation,” Chief Gary Batton said. “To give our associates the opportunity to further their education and eliminate some of the worry that goes along with tuition is a win-win for us and, hopefully, for Southeastern. We have partnered with Southeastern on a variety of good, fruitful projects and having this available to our associates is a great opportunity.”

Choctaw Nation associates wishing to learn more about the tuition deferral should contact benefits@choctawnation.com.