At St. Joseph’s Indian School, graduation season is a time of joy, reflection and celebration. It’s a moment to honor the achievements of our students and the incredible journey they’ve undertaken.
This May, we celebrate two significant milestones for our Lakota (Sioux) students: the high school Class of 2025 graduation on May 10, and the eighth grade Class of 2025 graduation on May 23.
Eighth-grade graduation holds a special place in our hearts. At St. Joseph’s, we believe in celebrating milestones along the way, recognizing the importance of each step in a student’s journey. For our eighth graders, this graduation is not just a transition to high school — it’s a moment to reflect on their achievements, embrace their potential and look forward to opportunities ahead.
For James, one of our eighth-grade graduates, reflecting on his time at St. Joseph’s brought to mind the time he boarded a plane and headed to a brand new state!
“My favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was the Donor Event in Dallas, Texas. I spoke in front of the donors and answered their questions,” he said. “I also got to experience virtual reality for the first time!”
For Rayne, another eighth-grade graduate, her reflections stayed closer to campus.
“My favorite activity at St. Joseph’s was the pajama days, and volleyball with my coaches Jennie, Kim and Jesse,” she said.
Meet All of the Eighth Grade Graduates at stjo.org.
The eighth-grade graduation ceremony is a vibrant and heartfelt event. Families, staff and community members come together to honor the graduates in a way that is uniquely St. Joseph’s. From the handing out of roses to special individuals who have supported them, to the presentation of star quilts — a symbol of love and respect — the ceremony is filled with traditions that celebrate the Lakota culture and the bonds that unite us.
For our high school graduates, the ceremony is a celebration of resilience and accomplishment. Our students have overcome challenges and prepared themselves for the next chapter of their lives. Whether they head to college, pursue careers or explore new paths, their graduation is a moment of pride for the entire St. Joseph’s community.
Some of our high school graduates had words of wisdom to share with their younger peers.
“My advice to younger students is to not dim your light to fit in somewhere,” said Angie, a high school graduate. “If you still like unicorns in 10th grade, then you rock with that like no other. Being your authentic self feels so natural and easy, don’t make it hard for yourself.”
Meet All of the High School Graduates at stjo.org.
Of course, we need to extend our praise to our St. Joseph’s alumni! These remarkable individuals have dedicated themselves to their education and are now reaching new milestones in their academic and professional journeys. Whether earning certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees, each graduate is a testament to perseverance, hard work and the unwavering support of their families and communities.
2025 SPRING/SUMMER ALUMNI GRADUATIONS:
- Marcus Yellow Earrings, Vocational Training Institute, Certificate HVAC/R Technician
- Kayla Thunder, United Tribes Technical College, AS Small Business Management
- Justina Grassrope, Haskell Indian Nations University, BS Business Administration
- Taivin Fallis, Lake Area Technical College, AAS Building Trades Technology
- Carla Iron Shooter, Lower Brule Community College, AA Human Services
- Charity Merritt, Sinte Gleska University, BS Elementary/Early Childhood Education
- Melissa Begaii (Cortez), Ultimate Medical Academy Online, AA Medical Billing and Coding
Graduation season at St. Joseph’s is more than a series of ceremonies. It’s a celebration of our students’ spirit and determination. It’s a time to honor their achievements, support their dreams and remind them that they are part of a thiyóšpaye — extended family — that believes in their potential.
To all our graduates, congratulations and philámayaye — thank you — for inspiring us with your courage and dedication. As you step into the future, know that you carry the hopes and blessings of your St. Joseph’s family with you.
To our donors who were with our graduates in spirit every step of the way, wóphila tȟáŋka — many thanks. Milestones like this are not met without the generosity of friends like you!
To learn more about the educational programs at St. Joseph’s Indian School, visit stjo.org today!
