State Board of Higher Education issues statement on Fighting Sioux nickname Today (Oct. 1), the State Board of Higher Education voted to extend the deadline on retirement of the Fighting Sioux nickname and logo to Nov. 30, assuming that by Oct. 31, the Standing Rock Tribal Council requests an additional extension of time not beyond Nov. 30. This will allow the new Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Council time to determine if the Tribe's position on the nickname and logo is to be decided by a tribal vote. As we work toward resolution of this issue, I want to reiterate the fact that Dr. Kelley and the University of North Dakota have the full support of the State Board of Higher Education. The board has complete confidence that the university will continue to show respect for people on both sides of this sensitive issue. It is important to remember that the University of North Dakota is nationally recognized for its 29 American Indian-related programs. The State Board of Higher Education is proud of this distinction and deeply committed to sustaining excellence in American Indian Education. The board is also committed to maintaining academic excellence in a welcoming and supportive learning environment for all students of the University of North Dakota, as well as its 10 sister institutions. We have listened to many voices and many perspectives. This short deadline extension is intended to provide an appropriate amount of time for both tribal councils to take action. Regardless of one's position on this issue, many North Dakotans agree that it is time for resolution...and time to move forward with the important work of this university. -- State Board of Higher Education