A Success Academy for Increasing Tribal College Transfer Student Success in Nursing Degree Completion: A Mixed-Methods Study.

This article focuses on the Caring for Our Own Program (CO-OP) Success Academy, a pre-entry immersion initiative designed to improve retention and success of Indigenous nursing students transferring from Tribal colleges to Montana State University’s nursing program. The four-week hybrid program provides academic refreshers, social connection, and holistic support addressing financial, technological, and cultural needs, aiming to prepare students for upper-division nursing coursework. Results from 30 participants showed improved progression rates (66.7% progressing without delay) compared to historical retention rates (35.9%), alongside qualitative feedback highlighting benefits such as peer relationships, increased confidence, and challenges including balancing family, work, and navigating institutional systems. The study underscores the importance of culturally responsive, multifaceted support throughout Indigenous students’ nursing education to enhance workforce diversity and address health disparities in Tribal communities.