Native & Indigenous
Youth Programs
Youth Programs
Overnight Camp
Konaway Nika Tillicum, which means “All My Relations” in Chinook Trade Jargon, is an eight-day academic program exploring a broad range of classes, lectures, cultural experiences, and recreational activities for Native American students.
Since 1996, Konaway Nika Tillicum provides students the opportunity to stay on the SOU campus, spend time with tribal elders and leaders, attend an Oregon Shakespeare Festival play, and meet other Native students from across the country. Designed for students in grades 7-12, Konaway students choose course offerings in the following areas: humanities, mathematics, science, social studies, fine and performing arts, and cultural studies.
Students who are selected for the Konaway program have their costs covered, through the generous support of grants and outside financial supporters.
Camp Schedule & Information
Camp Schedule and Information
Konaway Nika Tillicum is held on the Southern Oregon University campus. Konaway 2026 camp dates will be available in December 2025.
Applying as a New Student
The online Konaway application will be available starting January 13.
If you are applying as a new student to the overnight camp, follow the steps below:
If you have questions or need assistance with these steps, please contact our office at youthprograms@sou.edu.
Applying as a Returning Student
The online Konaway application will be available starting January 13.
If you have previously applied for the overnight program, follow the steps below:
If you have questions or need assistance with these steps, please contact our office at youthprograms@sou.edu.
Camp Commitment
Camp Commitment
Leaving an overnight camp program is discouraged. It is important that students make a commitment to fully participate. Schedule outside appointments, music lessons, athletic practices, and tryouts for times outside of the week of camp.
Counselors, Head Residents, and Course Instructors
This camp would not be possible without the support of our counselors and program staff. We encourage individuals to apply to our open positions:
Konaway Nika Tillicum is supported by the Youth Development Oregon, Oregon Community Foundation, Reed and Carolee Walker Fund, and individual donors.