From loss to gain: Wokini initiative creating success stories while struggling with enrollees

Native American enrollment in state colleges not making headway

By Art Hovey

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly identified the source of funding for Wokini scholarships.

She was just one of hundreds of graduates celebrating at South Dakota State University on Saturday, and you might think Oakley Jandreau’s career advancement wouldn’t rank as much of a milestone outside her family and social circle.

Think again. 

What makes Jandreau’s diploma special is a four-year scholarship boost for Native Americans from SDSU’s Wokini Initiative, a brainchild of SDSU President Barry Dunn and a 2016 commitment to turn a dark past into individual success stories.

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