2010-2011 Year in Review 

Message from the President

When I arrived on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation last August as president of Red Cloud Indian School, I knew I would be part of something very special. Indeed, I had spent much time on the reservation as a member of the board of directors for six years, but this would be something new.

My first few days were certainly rich—filled with the laughter of a six-year-old Lakota girl running into the kindergarten classroom on her first day of school. Full with the excitement of a visitor at The Heritage Center viewing a contemporary painting by a young Native American artist. Full with senior students beginning their college applications. Full with prayer and song rising from Our Lady of the Sioux Church on Sunday.

When I look back on the 2010/11 year at Red Cloud, my heart is full because much has been accomplished. What I love about this ministry is watching our community of “doers” do extraordinary things. Wilbur Ferguson at Our Lady of Lourdes began an archery team that teaches responsibility and respect (and has brought home many trophies). Angie Stover facilitated spiritual formation through Sacred Heart Church’s Kateri Circle. Mike “Suds” Sunderland guided our seniors to nine Gates Millennium Scholarships—the most in the nation. Tyler Bruns started a soccer and softball program at Red Cloud Elementary because his students were not just interested in the sports—but showed they were committed to them. Carmen Fourd ’04 made more than 100 Lakota items available through The Heritage Center’s online store. The list could go on and on.

In the pages that follow, you’ll read about our people. You’ll also read about our place. And I hope that you, too, will be filled with inspiration and awe for all that’s happened because of your financial and prayerful support.

Fr. George Winzenburg, S.J., President