VERMILION, S.D. (KELO.com) — To mark Native American Day, The University of South Dakota announced the revitalization of the Institute of American Indian Studies.

USD President Sheila Gestring says educational opportunities and outreach for the state’s tribes will be improved.

The Institute was authorized by the South Dakota State Legislature in 1955 to provide Native Americans with educational opportunities both on and off-campus.

But Gestring says its basically been dormant for years.

As part of the revitalized Institute, USD will have a designated liaison with South Dakota’s nine tribes.

USD’s big announcement was drummed in with traditional Lakota songs.