The Native American Prep Scholars Fund application is now closed.
The Native American Preparatory Scholars (NAPS) Fund was established in 2012 from the remaining assets of the former Native American Preparatory School located in Rowe, NM. The purpose of the fund is to support programs that increase the number of New Mexico Native American students who shall aspire to, be prepared for, and graduate from colleges and universities.
We are honored to announce our 2025 NAPS Fund Grant Awards:
College Horizons – $15,000 (Sandoval County)
Funds will go towards developing and sharing a guide in response to ongoing changes to the admission/financial aid process and DEI initiatives that impact Native student college attainment.
College and Career Plaza – $15,000 (Santa Fe County)
Funds will support Empowered Futures: College and Career Readiness for Native Youth program at Santa Fe Indian School. This program provides for a full-time, on-campus College and Career Advisor, to ensure that students receive individualized guidance, workshops, and experiential learning opportunities designed to increase college access, persistence, and career pathway success.
R4 Creating – $15,000 (Sandoval County)
Funds will support Mescalero Apache Schools STEM Leadership Program. This program provides training for educators to integrate 3D printing, robotics, and coding into their classrooms while mentoring students as peer leaders. Ongoing support includes monthly coaching, resource sharing, and networking opportunities to ensure long-term impact.
Bridges Project for Education – $6,000 (Taos County)
Funds will support BRIDGES Ahead and BRIDGES Forward programs for Native American students. BRIDGES Ahead provides free, one-on-one counseling to students through every stage of the postsecondary education application process and presentations and workshops at local schools and partner organizations. BRIDGES Forward ensures continued support for students in their first two years of college or career training, helping them navigate financial aid, course registration, housing, and other critical milestones.