Aug. 25, 2026, KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Oregon Tech hosted the 10th Annual Klamath Tribes Youth Summit (KTYS) August 11-13 on the Klamath Falls campus. This year's theme, "Individual Journeys, Shared Purpose," brought together Native youth from across the region for three days of cultural learning, leadership development, and community building.
The Oregon Tech Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Cultural Engagement partnered with the Klamath Tribes Department of Education and Employment to host approximately 50 to 75 youth ages 12 to 18. Participants represented the Klamath Tribes, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and the Pit River Tribe.
The summit encourages Native youth to explore and celebrate their history, culture, and communities while providing an opportunity to experience a college campus and learn about higher education opportunities for their futures.
Throughout the summit, participants were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and strengthen their understanding of leadership and community healing. Traditional song, dance, and games remained central to the event, filling the College Union with the sounds of honor songs, drumming, stick games, and dancing.
Activities began with a youth-organized mini powwow on the first afternoon, followed by a coed basketball tournament on Danny Miles Court. The second day featured breakout sessions covering topics including Native history, traditional drumming and singing, youth leadership, metal art, beading, and ancestral language. Evening activities included a stick games tournament, with participants staying overnight in Oregon Tech's new residence hall.
This year's summit carried added significance as many participants have been affected by wildfires across Oregon. Organizers said the gathering provided an opportunity for youth to connect with one another, celebrate their cultures, and find moments of joy and courage during a challenging time.
The Klamath Tribes Youth Summit continues to strengthen connections between Native youth, tribal communities, and higher education while creating opportunities for cultural learning, leadership development, and community engagement.
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_Submitted by Ashley Van Essen, Public Affairs, Oregon Tech (541-885-1162, ashley.vanessen@oit.edu)._
