Case Studies 

Tribal Governance and Policy

• Skunk, Christian (2025) - Lower Brule Law and Order Code Revision (2019-2024)

  • Summary:

    • This case study examines the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe’s five-year Law and Order Code revision process, led collaboratively by Tribal leadership, the judiciary, and legal partners from the University of South Dakota School of Law. It highlights the balance between traditional Lakota principles of justice and modern procedural frameworks, with attention to sovereignty, institutional development, and cultural preservation.

  • Key Focus Areas:

    • Code modernization and institutional strengthening

    • Balancing federal compliance with tribal sovereignty

    • Integration of Lakota restorative justice traditions

    • Governance continuity and community-based reform

  • Outcome:

    • The revised Law and Order Code was officially adopted in August 2024, marking a major step toward sustainable tribal governance and justice system modernization.

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Leadership and Organizational Development 

• Skunk, Christian (2025) - Leadership in Action: Lessons in Leadership, Accountability, and Community Reform

  • Summary:
    This case study explores how lived experience in community and nonprofit leadership shaped a model for organizational reform, accountability, and sustainable governance. Drawing from board service — from the Lower Brule Powwow Committee to statewide collaborations like the South Dakota Native Tourism Alliance — it highlights how structure, training, and cultural values can turn passion into lasting systems of leadership.

  • Key Focus Areas:

    • Nonprofit and community board reform

    • Leadership training and accountability

    • Culturally grounded governance practices

  • Download Case Study (PDF)

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