For Release August 8, 1998
BHSU Student Organizations Honored by Board of Regents
Spearfish, SD—Today at the South Dakota Board of Regents regular business meeting held on the campus of Black Hills State University, the Board presented awards to two student organizations from Black Hills State University. President James O. Hansen presented the awards on the Boards behalf. "It pleases the Regents to be able to acknowledge the hard work and dedication these student organizations have exhibited," said Hansen.
The award for academic excellence was given to the English Club for enhancing the students’ academic environment by emphasizing literary works. Activities of the English Club included sponsoring a foreign films series, promoting poetry readings at a local coffee shop, sponsoring literary review discussions and inviting guest speakers to the campus. The Club also participated in Swarm Days Homecoming, Council of Student Organizations, Festival on the Green and Christmas on Campus.
The award for organizational leadership was given to the Lakota Omnicye. The Lakota Omnicye seeks to bridge the cultural gaps between Indian and non-Indian students and to provide educational assistance when applicable. "This club provided a cultural experience for not only students, faculty and staff, but also for the northern hills community," said BHSU Student Life Vice President Judith Haislett, who presented the club to the Regents. Through a focus on recruiting and supporting members, the club has been able to increase participation levels at its annual pow wow and has sponsored programming for Native American Awareness Week.
Accepting the award for the English Club was advisor Scott Simpson. Advisor Stephanie Charging Eagle accepted the award on behalf of the Lakota Omnicye.