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What We Do
The Institute of American Indian Studies conducts research and policy development on tribal governance and issues in contemporary American Indian society. The Institute also develops, coordinates and funds interdisciplinary research projects, sustains relations with tribes and tribal colleges, advises on tribal relations and culture, issues publications, administers several endowments supportive of Native American education and student life, and hosts numerous lectures and conferences on topical Native American questions.
Established in 1955 by the Board of Regents and subsequently recognized by the South Dakota Legislature in 1974, our work encourages focused research on contemporary American Indian life, strengthening relations with tribal communities and colleges in the northern plains region, and supports the Department of American Indian Studies and Native American Student Services on campus.
The Institute also maintains the Dr. Joseph Harper Cash Memorial Library, which contains books, photographs, films, and videos on North American frontier history with special emphases on American Indians, the mining industry, and western literature.
Our Affiliates
To learn more about us, please read our News Bulletins. We appreciate the opportunity to keep you informed about our projects!
