"Regarding the Fighting Sioux mascot controversy, a colleague once told me that he would be in favor of changing the name if there was evidence - evidence such as American Indian students staying away from UND in droves.

Here are some of the reasons why American Indian students come to UND: Many Native people on reservations aren't familiar with the logo controversy. It isn't until they come to the university and experience some of the negatives that they come to a full understanding. It is also important to understand that Native students want to stay close to home. But to get a degree in fields such as law, medicine or nursing, they have few options. One of those options is UND.

The most important reason why Native students come to UND is because of the excellent Native American staff. The staff does the recruiting in communities that they understand and provide support for enrolled students."

Get the Story:
Dorreen Yellowbird: Beat the drum for our Indian nurses (The Grand Forks Herald 12/17)

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