Lionel Bordeaux

Lionel Raphael Bordeaux (; February 9, 1940 – November 16, 2022) was a Sicangu Lakota educator, advocate, and president of Sinte Gleska University (SGU) from 1973 until his death in 2022. At the time of his death, he was the longest-serving college or university president in the United States. was born on February 9, 1940, in Mellette County, South Dakota,

Bordeaux initially began attending classes at Black Hills State University (BHSU; then known as the Black Hills Teachers College). During that time, both his grandfather and brother died, and his mother gave up her beauty business in Sioux Falls. Due to the emotional toll, Bordeaux returned home to White River, where he shared a small house with his grandmother, mother, and adopted sister. He eventually returned to his studies with the support of his family. with a BA in composite history and social science and a minor in psychology. SGU also became the first tribal college to become accredited at both the bachelor's and master's degree levels.

Bordeaux also served as a tribal leader on councils for the Rosebux Sioux Tribe and its reservation for 14 years, including as chair of the tribal education committee and board. He also assisted the formation of tribal colleges at the Lower Brule Indian Reservation and Yankton Indian Reservation. and had four children with her. The 2023 South Dakota Legislature issued House Commemoration 8002 to celebrate his life.

Accolades Bordeaux received several honors and awards during his lifetime, including:

1983: Outstanding Educator of the Year, National Congress of American Indians 2018: Inducted into the National Native American Hall of Fame Outstanding Administrator of the Year and Alumni/Special Achievement Award, Black Hills State University