Sinte Gleska University: Reenforcing Foundations in the Lakota Way

Introduction

Sinte Gleska University (SGU), a public tribal land-grant university located in Mission, South Dakota, on the Rosebud Indian Reservation, stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the Sicangu (Burnt Thigh) Brulé Lakota people. Founded in 1971 and named after the esteemed Brulé Lakota chief Sinte Gleska, the university is dedicated to "Reenforcing our foundation for the people to go forward in the Lakota Way," as reflected in its motto, "Wahope unglawa sakapi hecel oyate ki Wolakota gluha tokatakiya unya pi kte."

Historical Overview

SGU's establishment in 1971 marked a significant milestone in the pursuit of self-determination and educational sovereignty for the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. The founding Board President, Lakota elder Stanley Red Bird Sr., along with Joseph M., laid the groundwork for an institution deeply rooted in Lakota values and traditions. As a member of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, SGU actively contributes to strengthening tribal nations through education and community development.

Mission and Values

At the heart of Sinte Gleska University's mission lies a commitment to providing access to higher education for the often-impoverished communities on and off the Rosebud Reservation. With a significant portion of its students being first-generation college attendees, SGU plays a pivotal role in empowering indigenous peoples and fostering a deeper understanding of Lakota culture among tribal and non-tribal members alike.

The university's work is deeply intertwined with Lakota virtues, culture, and tradition, providing students with a strong academic foundation and the values needed to overcome the challenges of poverty and hopelessness that have historically affected the Rosebud Reservation. SGU prioritizes the preservation of the Lakota language and culture, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their heritage.

Academic Programs

Sinte Gleska University offers a diverse range of academic programs through its Wounspe Wankatuya College of Arts & Sciences, designed to meet the specific needs and aspirations of the Sicangu Oyate. These programs include:

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Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts

This four-year degree program provides a solid foundation in the humanities, allowing students to explore various concentration areas such as English/literature, natural science, social science, and history. Minors are also available in fields like art, history, math, human services, natural sciences, social science, English/literature/creative writing, and Lakota studies. The Bachelor of Liberal Arts program equips students with essential skills in research writing, communication, critical thinking, and analytical reasoning, preparing them for lifelong learning and achievement.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science is a generalist degree within the natural sciences that emphasizes the understanding of natural and man-made environments. This program draws from diverse fields of study, including biology, physics, chemistry, geography, ecology, economics, business, and sociology. Students often complete specializations within specific areas such as biology, Lakota land studies, or range studies. The program also incorporates significant field work, lab work, and data-oriented projects.

Associate of Arts/Arts & Sciences

The Associate of Arts degree lays the groundwork for students to enter a baccalaureate program. Students are prepared to enter into any field they wish. Graduates of Arts & Science associate's degree may qualify to enter into various career fields that require a generalized college education.

Associate of Science in Environmental Science

The Associate of Science in Environmental Science teaches students about environmental protection regulations, environmental issues and the protection of natural elements such as water and air, which are essential for life. The associate’s degree program in environmental science is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions or as a foundation for further study. Graduates may continue their educational path in environmental policy - or environmental science - focused programs. The AS environmental sciences program prepares graduates to transfer their credits directly into the bachelors program.

Associate of Science in Biological Science

The Associate of Science in Biological Science prepares students for transfer to upper-division colleges and universities to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Biology also provides the foundation for students who wish to become physicians, dentists, veterinarians, or other medical professionals. The curriculum is equivalent to the first two years of a baccalaureate program in Biology.

Bachelor of Arts in Human Services

The Human Services Department at Sinte Gleska University is committed to fully support the overall SGU Mission Statement. Therefore, the Human Services Department will provide students and graduates a rigorous academic experience reflective of contemporary education and Sicangu Lakota knowledge and values. Bachelor of Art (BA) graduates will be competent and skilled professional helpers, fully prepared to serve in helping positions or go on to successfully complete graduate studies. BA graduates will also have an appreciation of the Lakota way of life, weaving the Wolakota philosophy into both professional and personal domains, Graduates will also be active critical thinkers and self-starters who are productive and contributing citizens, personally committed to healthy, responsible lifestyles.

The Great Plains Art Institute

The Great Plains Art Institute at Sinte Gleska University is dedicated to providing serious art students with intensive study of both mainstream and Native American art. The institute's mission is to prepare Lakota students with a background in history, criticism, and theory, combined with the skills necessary to teach or produce art. The Great Plains Art Institute offers both a two-year Associate of Arts degree and a four-year Bachelor of Arts degree.

Impact and Achievements

Despite facing significant financial challenges, Sinte Gleska University has achieved remarkable success in its relatively short history. The university's graduates have gone on to attain advanced degrees and make significant contributions to their communities. SGU's impact extends beyond individual success stories, as it fosters a culture of higher education within the Rosebud area, where college attendance was once a rarity. SGU graduates now expect their children to pursue higher education, creating a positive cycle of educational attainment.

Sinte Gleska University has full accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Enrollment has grown as have our graduating classes. Students from families who had never considered college an option are now building on their SGU experience and excelling in bachelors degree programs including Art, Biology, and Nursing, among others.

Addressing Challenges and Looking Ahead

Sinte Gleska University faces ongoing financial hurdles that threaten its continued growth. While the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Higher Ed Program and organizations like the American Indian College Fund provide generous scholarships, the vast majority of SGU students come from families with incomes below the federal poverty threshold, creating a significant unmet need.

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Despite these challenges, Sinte Gleska University remains steadfast in its commitment to providing quality education and empowering the Sicangu Oyate. By staying true to its Lakota values, culture, and traditions, SGU continues to break the chain of poverty and hopelessness, transforming lives and strengthening communities.

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