Family, friends and staff filled Our Lady of the Sioux Chapel on May 23 to show their support for St. Joseph’s eighth-grade graduates and help celebrate this important milestone. The graduates were blessed to have State Representative Jim Schaefer and his wife attend the ceremony. Paul Davis, a St. Joseph’s Indian School alumnus, offered the keynote address to graduates. Paul is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and began his career as a student at St. Joseph’s in the fall of 1983 as a first grader. In 1991, he experienced his own eighth grade graduation ceremony and went on to graduate from Chamberlain High School as part of St. Joseph’s High School program in May 1995.
He was also part of St. Joseph’s college transition program at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota for more than two years. “I’ve been working on this speech since I was in your shoes in 1991,” Paul joked with the eighth grade class. “Remember you can always come back to St. Joseph’s Indian School — they are family. More importantly, remember that you are the only one who can do what you will do. Never give up.” Paul currently lives in Del Rapids, South Dakota, with his family. He works for Sanford Hospital as the Mobile Heart, Vascular & Lung Screening Coordinator. He has presented to students at St. Joseph’s career fair. His team has also provided heart screenings for staff. After eighth grade, Native American students can continue their education through St. Joseph’s High School program, which partners with Chamberlain Public High School. As part of the program, students reside on St. Joseph’s campus where they receive support to make the most of their high school years and plan for their future. Pilamaya — thank you — for your support! See how your support inspires the Lakota students to reach for the future! |
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