Joint Oversight Hearing | Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee

This joint oversight hearing of the House Committee on Natural Resources GOP, held on July 23, 2024, focused on investigating longstanding issues of mismanagement, misconduct, and abuse at Haskell Indian Nations University, a federally operated institution under the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE). Witnesses, including the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, the Department of Interior Inspector General, former Haskell President Ronald Graham, and others, testified about systemic failures such as sexual assault mishandling, nepotism, bullying, and lack of transparency. The hearing highlighted delays and obfuscation in releasing investigative reports, inadequate responses to student grievances, and leadership instability with eight presidents in six years. Discussions emphasized the need for improved oversight, leadership stability, clearer policies, and accountability to protect students and ensure effective use of federal funds, including the approximately $20 million annual budget for Haskell. Members expressed bipartisan concern and called for swift corrective actions, better communication, and adherence to Title IX regulations to create a safe and supportive educational environment for Native American students.