USM dedicates center for American Indian studies

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) _ The University of Southern Mississippi is diversifying its academic offerings with new courses and research in American Indian cultures.

Tammy Greer, director of the new American Indian Research and Studies Center, says a minor in American Indian studies will be available in 2010.

University officials, tribal leaders and Choctaw Indian students gathered Saturday to dedicate the center, which will be in the basement of McCain Library on USM's main campus in Hattiesburg.

The Hattiesburg American reported that drum beats provided a backdrop as representatives of the Choctaw Indians sang a tribal chant blessing.