Brigham Young University. Institute of American Indian Studies

Established in 1960, the institute of American Indian Studies and Research services various agencies of the LDS Church with programs that relate to the Indians of America; to assist BYU and other units within the Unified Church School system to develop programs for the enlargement and improvement of the educational opportunities for Indians; to cooperate with governmental agencies in their attempts to improve Indian adjustment to a more satisfactory participation within the predominant society; and to work with Indian tribes or groups as they attempt to solve their own problems.

The institute was approved in 1958 but did not officially begin operations until the 1960-1961 school year. Elder Spencer W. Kimball served as honorary chairman of the institute, while remaining staff included Lyman S. Tyler, director; John T. Bernhard; Ward Despain; Bob Guiellian -- secretary; and BYU President Ernest L. Wilkinson ex-official member.

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