History of the Center

The Origin

The Native American Cultural Center, located across from Slagle, was dedicated in the fall of 1988 as the headquarters for the Native American Student organization on campus. This organization is called "The Tiospaye Council."

Tiospaye by definition in the Lakota language translates into "extended family."

In the Native American culture, the basic family unit is the extended family. Based on the extended family premise, the Tiospaye Council was established to assist Native American students in adjusting to the college environment and to encourage their pursuit of higher education.

In addition, the Council works to promote a better understanding of the Native American culture by the University community and the Vermillion community. These undertakings are reflected in the Council's efforts to provide an environment of cultural development, spiritual growth and social interaction by developing an extended community of resource people. Essentially, the students and community create a home away from home, a Tiospaye.

Gene Thin Elk	Doyle Pipe On Head
677-5426	677-6765

409 East Clark Street
677-6875

Native American Activities

Diversity

The Native American Cultural Center serves as the focal point for the University's American Indian cultural and social activities. In addition to serving as a meeting site for various other student organizations, the center also provides study areas and a computer lab.

Guide for Native American Students Online in PDF format.

Other Activities/Services:

• Student receptions/ picnics / etc.
• Access to the internet
• AISES (American Indian Science & Engineering Society) club meeting
• AIBL (American Indian Business Leaders) meetings
• Native American movies
• Poetry readings / book signings
• Native American Cultural presentations
• Wawokiya Mentoring Program
• Vermillion Sundancers Society (support organization for people who practice the traditional ways)
• Native American Cultural Advisor's services of counseling, advising, etc.
• Coordination with University departments regarding literature, events, recruiting, etc.
• Scheduling availability of the center

Some of the activities sponsored by the Tiospaye Council:

• Orientation
• Helping with student receptions
• Taco sales for fundraising
• Traditional community feeds (Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.)
• Traditional music (drum practice & singing)
• Presenters for Native American Awareness week
• Annual Spring Pow-wow
• Helping with the Red Road Retreats

TRIO
SSS • MSIP • UB • ETS