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The National Indian Gaming Association to Fund 36 Scholarships with American Indian College Fund

August 27, 2008—Denver, Colo. -- The National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) is helping American Indian students achieve their education goals nationwide. NIGA's Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation will fund Sovereignty Scholarships with the American Indian College Fund. One student will be named as a Sovereignty Scholar at 36 of the nation's tribal colleges and universities. Each of the 36 students will receive a $2,000 scholarship per semester of the 2008-09 academic year, or $4,000 a year.

All Sovereignty Scholars will be selected based on financial need.

Richard B. Williams, President and CEO of the American Indian College Fund, said "American Indians have a history of philanthropy. How much one gave was more important than how much one had in Indian cultures. The National Indian Gaming Association is continuing this rich tradition of philanthropy while also empowering American Indian students to reach their dreams and transform their communities with an education. This gift embodies the tradition of Indians helping other Indians."

About The National Indian Gaming Association
The National Indian Gaming Association, established in 1985, is a non-profit organization of 184 Indian Nations with other non-voting associate members representing organizations, tribes and businesses engaged in tribal gaming enterprises from around the country. The common commitment and purpose of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian peoples economically, socially and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policymakers and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development.