Team SIPI Shines at AIHEC Student Conference in Rapid City

Twelve students from the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute traveled to Rapid City, South Dakota, from March 7 to 12 to represent their school in the annual American Indian Higher Education Consortium Student Conference. Competing against tribal colleges and universities nationwide, Team SIPI brought talent, sportsmanship, and cultural pride to every event.

The students competed in various academic, cultural, and athletic competitions, proudly showcasing their skills and spirit. In the Poetry Slam, Ethan Roanhorse and Auberon Tsinahjinnie performed original works under the guidance of coach Luri Owen. Though they did not advance past the first round, both poets were approached by fellow competitors eager to discuss their work—highlighting the impact of their words beyond the competition.

In the Archery Competition, SIPI made a major mark. Archers Elsie Big Bow, Keisha Edmonds, JayAndre Veaux, and Tate Waukazoo competed among over 60 participants. JayAndre Veaux emerged victorious, earning the title of 1st Place AIHEC Archer. David Kupsick coached the team.

The hand game team, consisting of Stevie Robertson, Anani Shomour, JayAndre Veaux, Marrissa Crazy Thunder, Taelyn Harjo, and Raychelle Delgarito, faced off against several colleges in this traditional guessing game. Coached by Mechelle Crazy Thunder, the team won their first match against Diné College and continued with three more games before falling to Leech Lake Tribal College. The group also joined in open matches Monday night, further embracing the cultural spirit of the event.

In the Traditional Plants Competition, students demonstrated their knowledge of indigenous flora, including plant names, uses, and scientific terms. Competitors included Elsie Big Bow, Stevie Robertson, Ethan Roanhorse, and Caleb Secatero. Though none placed this year, coach Angie Sells remarked that the list of 300 plants was the most extensive she had seen in her years of coaching.

Team SIPI also showcased their artistic talents in the Art Competition. Entries included painting, photography, jewelry, textiles, pottery, and leatherwork submitted by students Elsie Big Bow, Stevie Robertson, Auberon Tsinahjinnie, Raychelle Delgarito, Marrissa Crazy Thunder, Caleb Secatero, and Taelyn Harjo. Alena Chalan coordinated art entries.

SIPI students made a strong impression in the Student Writing Competition hosted by the Tribal College Journal. Caleb Secatero placed in the Top Three for Creative Nonfiction, while Adrian Hardy earned a top three finish in Poetry. Melanie Bartholomew supported and facilitated their entries.

In addition to their competitive achievements, SIPI students participated in events like chess, with team members Ethan Roanhorse, Anani Shomour, and Keisha Edmonds representing the college with strategic skill and focus.

Team SIPI’s presence at AIHEC 2025 demonstrated excellence across disciplines and highlighted its students' strength, creativity, and determination. Whether winning trophies or building community, SIPI students proudly represented their school.

Click here to watch a slideshow of the students participating at the event.