Oglala Lakota College

Overview

Oglala Lakota College is a public tribal land-grant community college located on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in Kyle, South Dakota. It serves as a vital educational institution for the region, focusing on the advancement of Lakota Nation through education.

History

Oglala Lakota College was chartered by the Oglala Sioux Tribal Council on March 4, 1971, as the Lakota Higher Education Center. Initially, it worked with other institutions to offer accredited programs. The college awarded its first associate degrees in 1974. In 1978, it was renamed Oglala Sioux Community College. By 1983, it had gained accreditation and added bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, leading to another name change to Oglala Lakota College the same year.

Mission and Vision

The college's vision is to rebuild the Lakota Nation through education. Its mission is to educate students for professional and vocational employment opportunities while incorporating Lakota culture and language into its curriculum. Oglala Lakota College aims to promote tribal sovereignty, provide cultural leadership, and support community development.

Academic Programs

Oglala Lakota College offers a wide range of educational programs, including over 25 degree options. These include associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in fields such as Lakota leadership, education, human services, nursing, and tribal/indigenous law. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Governance and Campus

The college is governed by a 13-member board of trustees. It operates a decentralized campus system with instructional centers across the Pine Ridge Reservation and in Rapid City. This setup ensures accessible education for the geographically isolated communities it serves.

Community Impact

Oglala Lakota College plays a crucial role in developing the Pine Ridge Reservation's resources and people. As a leader in higher education, it provides comprehensive resources and scholarship opportunities to help students succeed. Many graduates have returned to the reservation, contributing significantly to local community development. In recent years, the college has awarded hundreds of degrees annually, predominantly to American Indian students.

Partnerships and Affiliations

Oglala Lakota College is a member of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC), a group of tribally and federally chartered institutions dedicated to improving the educational experiences of American Indians and Alaska Natives. This affiliation supports its broader mission of enhancing tribal sovereignty and improving educational outcomes for Native communities.