Rapid City, SD – The Lakota Nations Education Conference announced the recipients of its prestigious Outstanding Contribution Awards, recognizing exceptional dedication to education and continuous support for the conference’s mission.
The awards honor individuals and organizations that demonstrate unwavering commitment to the education of children and adults, while promoting academic excellence and cultural understanding. Recipients are selected for their impactful outreach to South Dakota schools, classrooms, students, teachers, and parents through presentations and media. The committee noted that these efforts reflect thoughtful attention to both academic achievement and the holistic needs of Native children.
Honored for Outstanding Achievement was Rachel Louise Two Bulls. A registered member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, Rachel is recognized for her fortitude and determination to achieve her goals in life. With only hard work and dedication she achieved what she set out for, proving that it is possible if you try hard and put your mind to it.
This year, SDPB (South Dakota Public Broadcasting) was honored for many years of hard work bringing educational resources and programming to children across South Dakota, supporting learning both inside and outside the classroom.
Steven Rokusek was recognized for over 24 years of dedicated service attending and presenting at the Lakota Nation Education Conference, engaging adults and students with educational content and resources.
"Education is at the heart of what we do," said Dr. Marcy Drew, Director of Education for SDPB. "We are honored to receive this award and proud to support the Lakota Nations Education Conference in its mission to empower students and educators across South Dakota."
Steven Rokusek is an Education Specialist with SDPB. He is known around the state as “Science Steve,” where he demonstrates scientific principals with engaging experiments that entertain, as well as educate. Steven has participated in the Lakota Nations Education Conference for 24 years as both an attendee and as a presenter.
"It has been a privilege to work with the Lakota Nation Education Conference for so many years," said Steven Rokusek. "Every year, I am inspired by the commitment to cultural
understanding and the focus on helping every child succeed. This recognition means a great deal to me."
“These contributions have made a lasting impact on education in South Dakota,” said the conference committee. “Their commitment to outreach and cultural understanding continues to enrich the lives of students and educators.”
For more information about the Lakota Nations Education Conference and its mission, visit https://www.lakotanationsconference.com.
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About SDPB South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB) is a statewide, multi-platform public media service providing television, radio, and digital content that informs, educates, entertains, and inspires. SDPB operates nine television transmitters, twelve radio transmitters, and multiple translators reaching approximately 98% of South Dakotans.
Contact:
Fritz Miller
Director of Programming & Communications
South Dakota Public Broadcasting
Phone: (605) 202-0286
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.sdpb.org