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Typical enrollment of American Indian students at the University of South Dakota ranges from 150 to 175 representing over fourteen Indian tribes. On average, 30 students graduate annually. In a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, American Indian students excel in the classroom and in extra-curricular activities. Many USD students are married or single parents with children attending the Vermillion school system. A Title V-JOM director provides services within the public school system, and an Indian Parents' Association coordinates activities between the public schools and the University.
American Indian Alumni Chapter of the USD Alumni Association lists over 700 graduates and 3,200 alums who attended the University. In conjunction with the USD Alumni Office and the Institute of American Indian Studies, the goals are to identify, involve, and promote Alumni interest in campus activities. Alumni are encouraged to attend campus events or, when able, to establish scholarships and other support programs that assist currently-enrolled Indian students. With Alumni participation in University affairs, networks are established between alums and graduates. Interested in becoming a member? Send us a message at the link below.
American Indian Studies Club involves students and faculty interested in Indian Studies and related disciplines with the purpose of addressing academic and intellectual aspects of education about and for American Indians.
American Indian Business Leaders (AIBL) provides opportunities for development of business management, ownership, and operational expertise for students interested in the field of business.
American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES). The University of South Dakota chapter is open to all American Indian students, whatever discipline, including health and medical sciences, business, education, psychology, and other fields. AISES members have access to information regarding scholarships and fellowships, national conferences, and leadership and teacher training. AISES programs emphasize education, science, technology, and opportunity.
Native American Law Students Association (NALSA) chapter at the University of South Dakota is a member of the National American Indian Law Student Association. The chapter's goals are to provide a local and national network of mutual support, to focus attention on Indian law issues of interest to the law school community, and to serve as a minority and cultural resource within the University community. The group actively participates in recruitment of minority students and provides support services to those students attending the USD School of Law. The chapter sponsors a biennial forum/symposium addressing Indian law issues. Contact: President, NALSA 605.677.6561 FAX 605.677.5417
Tiospaye Council [ Tiospaye, "extended family" in the Dakota/Lakota/Nakota language]. The Tiospaye Council was formed to assist American Indian students in adjusting to campus life and to encourage those students to continue their pursuit of a higher education. The Council works to promote a better understanding of American Indian people and culture on the University of South Dakota campus and in the Vermillion community. The Council sponsors cultural and educational activities throughout the academic year, such as the annual wacipi [they dance], Cultural Awareness Week programs, culturally-relevant outings, and other celebrations.
In the 1996-1997 academic year, council officers felt that in the past The Tiospaye Council was viewed as a segregated organization. In order to dispel this myth, they changed the name to reflect their true mission: to promote cultural awareness on campus and urban communities in Vermillion. With this expanded mission, council members and participants acquire a truly multicultural awareness that follows them into life beyond the university.
In the 1997-1998 academic year, council officers once again assumed the name Tiospaye Council to describe their organization. However, they continue to subscribe to the outreach program espoused in the council's charter.
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16 December 1999, lrb