Kevin Harmon Vice President for Student Affairs and Intercollegiate Athletics | Minot State University
Kevin Harmon Vice President for Student Affairs and Intercollegiate Athletics | Minot State University
Minot State University is set to host the 35th annual Spring Honor Dance and Powwow Celebration on April 25 and April 26 at the Minot State Dome. The event is organized by the university's Native American Center and Club.
An educational program titled "Kennedy Bruce (Porcupine Woman) Cultural Teachings" will be held on April 25 from noon to 2 p.m. at the same venue. The program honors former Native American Club president Kennedy Bruce, who passed away in 2015. Participants will learn about the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians through Ojibwe teachings by Alex Decoteau, a cultural teacher at Turtle Mountain School. This program is tailored for students in grades 4 through 8 and aligns with North Dakota Native American essential understandings.
On April 26, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., the Plum River Native Prairie Family STEAM Day event will be held at the Plum River Site, with exhibits featuring science, technology, engineering, art, and math. This event is in collaboration with MSU programs and community partners. In case of bad weather, activities will be relocated to the Minot State Dome.
The powwow, referred to as Ni-mi-win in Ojibwe, is a celebration of life. It serves as a gathering for people of all ages to sing, dance, and enjoy Native American culture. It includes traditional and contest aspects with participants from across the United States and Canada.
"This is our 35th year of honoring graduates; in my time, I’ve been part of the celebration and honoring many students," said Annette Mennem, director of the Native American Cultural Awareness Center. "I’d like to also recognize the families who support our students and acknowledge the staff and faculty who play a part in our students’ success. This powwow is a highlight of my position at MSU, the reward from it matches the work going into it, and that makes it all worth the effort."
The Grand Entry times are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., with a special honoring of graduates at 8 p.m. The event is free, open to the public, and will feature craft and resource vendors on site.
Minot State University is committed to providing quality education, scholarship, and community engagement.
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