bing pixel

Oyate 2026

Today our Executive Director Prof. Najeeba Syeed taught over 130 Augsburg University student leaders about models of cooperative problem solving.

A photo of a retreat center in the woods has the text Oyate

Every year, Augsburg’s Multicultural Life office hosts this student leadership retreat  weekend inspired by oyate, the Lakota/Dakota word encompassing meanings related to “people,” “nation,” “community,” and the relationships between all beings and forces of life. Oyate Commons is also the name of a collaborative space in the lower level of the Christensen Center. There, students can connect with the Multicultural Life office and various student organizations, many of which were represented at the retreat.

The Oyate retreat was amazing, and the student leaders are impressive with their enthusiasm, courage, and thoughtfulness. We’re so excited to share how we can use conflict resolution to grow as leaders. These community builders help Augsburg and our neighbors flourish together. Thanks Multicultural Life for the invite; looking forward to working together all year!

A photo collage from the retreat depicts a forest setting, and people talking indoors