The Nez Perce Tribe will award at least one scholarship annually in the minimum amount of $500 to a qualified applicant that is or will be majoring in Journalism, History or English.

The scholarship is dedicated to the memory of K. Heidi Gudgell. Ms. Gudgell was an attorney who served for fifteen years (1996-2011) in the in-house legal office for the Nez Perce Tribe, Office of Legal Counsel. Heidi was originally hired to manage the Snake River Basin Adjudication matter for the Nez Perce Tribe.  She also provided legal services in many areas, including personnel, retirement benefits, taxation and many other areas.

Heidi was a tireless, dedicated member of the tribal staff and held the Nimiipuu people close to her heart. In 2011, Heidi retired from the Tribe to focus full-time on her battle with cancer and to spend time with her husband Gery and extended family. This scholarship is a symbol of Heidi’s positive outlook on life and her belief that although we all deal with personal struggles, it is important to keep fighting and to be unwavering in the pursuit of your goals. Heidi passed away on September 21, 2014. She lives on in our hearts.

Following verification of college enrollment, the scholarship winner will be announced, notified via U.S. Mail, and the check will be presented on the second NPTEC meeting in August. Applicants not awarded the scholarship will also be notified via U.S. Mail. For additional information contact Joyce McFarland, Education Manager, at (208) 843-7303.