This study presents the findings that emerged in a qualitative policy-oriented case study of an institution's transition to a work college. Using Resource Dependence Theory as the theoretical framework, 32 individual interviews were collected, along with other observational data and institutional archives to understand the appeal of federal policy and government investment in the institution's transition to a work college. The institution's movement toward a work college model proved to involve the opportunity to more greatly access federal policies and government investment inclined toward employability; however, an ethical vision also remained preeminent. This ethical vision--the restoration of cultural sovereignty--stretched beyond the boundaries of the institution and into its adjacent neighborhood, city, and nation. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]