The Challenge‍

2025 has proven to be a turbulent year for higher education—but for Native students and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), the challenges are even greater. New and ongoing Executive Orders continue to reverberate across Indian Country, threatening vital progress and placing entire communities at risk. In moments like these, symbolic support is not enough. This is a time for bold action and a renewed commitment to equity, sovereignty, and opportunity. This is the time to Defy the Storm.

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The Opportunity

‍Defy the Storm is more than a campaign—it’s a reflection of our deep partnership with the American Indian College Fund and the Vladimir Jones team’s ongoing commitment to purposeful, culturally grounded creative work that creates legacy. It’s a rallying cry built around real voices, real people, and real impact.

Centered on current Native students—Promise (Yankton Dakota), Sky (Navajo Nation), and Tasheena (Black Sheep Clan)—the campaign ensures that the story is told by those living it. Their strength, pride, and vision light the way forward, inspiring others to rise in defiance of the storm.

With empathy and intention, the VJ team crafted a campaign that highlights grit, honors identity, and champions the future of Native higher education. Together, we aim not just to raise awareness—but to move people to act.

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