USD’s Student Government Association (SGA) discussed exempting some budget allocations for the Tiospaye Student Council, a Native American student group on campus, in order for the student organization to properly award dancers at their annual Wacipi, the largest cultural event at USD.
Wacipi is a word loosely meaning “they dance,” and is similar to a Powwow. The event has hosted over 2,000 people and 300 dancers in the past.
Tiospaye’s President Julianna Benge, Secretary Nick Kennedy and Vice President Tylar Larsen attended SGA representing the student organization.
Dancers come from all over the state and nation to attend the Wacipi and dance. Dancers are compensated and awarded with money allocated by SGA, which is typically spent on food and travel expenses. Not all dancers are awarded.