Former Students Return to Bless St. Joseph's in a Big Way
The St. Joseph's scoreboard now bears the Iron Heart family name, recognizing the siblings' recent gift and their time as student athletes.
Nobody knew that when Kim, Mike and Jim Iron Heart graduated from St. Joseph’s Indian School in the late 1980s and early 1990s the siblings would be back decades later to make an impact for future graduates.
But that's exactly what happened.
The family was present on Tuesday, October 1, to be recognized for a monetary donation they recently made. Such a grand gesture prompted our school to honor them in a special way. The three siblings were very active in athletics during their school years at St. Joseph’s Indian School. It seemed only fitting to add their family's name to our football field scoreboard during the home football game against Lower Brule.
"We are here today not only to celebrate the Iron Hearts' coming home, but also to celebrate as a family," said President Mike Tyrell. "They have made a very nice contribution to our school. I think it's a wonderful thing to have alumni come back and consider giving a contribution."
Having the Iron Heart family name on the scoreboard will forever remind staff, students and visitors of milestones and memories during the more than 90 years of history at St. Joseph’s Indian School.
"We acknowledge what is written on the sign as a reminder of all the great things we have accomplished here at St. Joseph's during the past, present and future — but most of all, the great relationships we have built as part of a family," said Mike.
The Iron Heart family shook the hands of the football players before the game began. Perhaps the new sign added an extra ounce or two of luck! The St. Joseph’s Indian School Braves went on to defeat Lower Brule in a 46-0 victory.
Like the Iron Heart family, you, too, can leave a lasting legacy supporting students at St. Joseph’s Indian School. Contact Denise Hyland at 1-800-584-9200 or dhyland@stjo.org to learn more.