An informal Indian student organization existed by the early 1950s. The formal organization of Kyi-Yo Native American Student Association at The University of Montana dates to 1965. The name Kyi-Yo means bear in the Blackfeet language. In addition to offering support to members and promoting awareness of Native American culture, Kyi Yo has worked to sponsor an annual conference or powwow.
In 1968 a university committee proposed the offering of a new course in American Indian culture and history. By early 1969 a program of Indian courses was approved and hiring appropriate faculty was initated.
From the guide to the Kyi-Yo Native American Student Association history collection, 1965-2007, (University of Montana-Missoula Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library Archives and Special Collections)
