SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: Decoteau’s passion, perseverance, and the power of art
MINOT, N.D. – In a heartfelt continuation of her journey, art, community, and resilience have shaped Dyana Decoteau’s academic and personal path.
A senior Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) photography major with roots in the Ojibwe, Arikara, and Northern Cheyenne tribes, Decoteau’s story is one of reconnection, strength, and an unwavering commitment to creative expression.
But her journey into photography was far from conventional.
"I'm pursuing my BFA in photography at Minot State University,” said Decoteau. “Photography has always been something I loved, but I didn’t start off thinking it would be my major. After getting my A.A. (Associate of Arts degree), I transferred to Minot State from Dakota College at Bottineau, where I took classes like smartphone photography and visual art. Those classes reignited my passion for art, and my professor, Clint Saunders, was super encouraging — he saw that I had an eye for photography and motivated me to keep going."
Her passion began at a young age, when she leafed through old photo prints at her Kookum’s (grandmother’s) house, a ritual that rooted her love for visual storytelling. Once she enrolled at Minot State and finally took a digital photography course, her focus became clear.
"Once I started that class, I was all in! My professor, Ryan Stander, encouraged us to trust our 'photographer’s eye' and explore. It hit me that I didn’t want to be a photographer doing senior pictures and weddings,” Decoteau said. “I wanted to create a different kind of art with my photos. When I shared this with Ryan, he introduced me to the BFA program, which was exciting."
The BFA program broadened Decoteau’s horizons, encouraging her to integrate photography with other forms of art.
"Pursuing my BFA has been a game-changer,” said Decoteau. “It pushed me to try different classes and helped me become a more well-rounded artist. Now, I love mixing photography into my other artwork, and it’s just incredible to express myself in so many different ways!"
The choice to attend Minot State was guided by Decoteau’s desire for personal connection and practical learning.
"I chose Minot State because I wanted a hands-on education in a classroom setting. While I had taken plenty of online classes, I quickly realized that nothing beats the experience of engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Direct access to my professors for questions and immediate support was essential for my learning," Decoteau said. "Minot State is also the perfect size for me. It's big enough to provide plenty of opportunities, but still small enough that I won’t get lost in the crowd. I truly value the close-knit community."
Her connection to the campus runs deeper through her involvement in the Native American Club.
"Being part of the Native American Club has been an incredible experience for me, mainly because it gives us real representation on campus,” Decoteau said. “Despite our diverse tribes, we share a profound connection as Indigenous people, and that collective spirit truly makes the Native American Culture Center feel like home. Annette (Mennem), the director, creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that embraces us all. Being there feels like spending time with family, where I can be myself and feel completely at ease.
"Annette always sets up activities that unite us and celebrate our heritage, like the Spring Powwow. Plus, she makes sure there’s food available, and sometimes she even whips up a home-cooked meal, which makes it feel even more special."
Throughout her journey, Decoteau has taken full advantage of the enriching experiences offered by MSU.
"I can’t even begin to tell you how vibrant my experience has been at Minot State! Countless opportunities have come my way, not just in the art department but throughout the entire campus,” she said. “One standout aspect has been my involvement in the TRIO program. I’ve traveled to places like Boston and Memphis and even spent nights under the stars in Wyoming."
Her work has not gone unnoticed. Through the support of professors and donors, Decoteau has showcased her art internationally.
"One of the highlights of my time in the art department was when Dr. Amanda Watts (assistant professor of humanities) invited me to create artwork for a poster for the ICOM-CC (International Council of Museums – Committee for Conservation) conference in Valencia, Spain,” Decoteau said. “Thanks to the support of a generous donor, I was able to make the journey.
"The art community at Minot State has shown immense support and encouragement. Their encouragement and the freedom they provide to explore and experiment have allowed me to produce some truly beautiful artwork, which was later showcased at the Minneapolis Institute of Art in Minneapolis."
Her dreams for the future continue to grow, with a clear vision for giving back.
"I am passionate about teaching and giving back to others,” said Decoteau. “This has inspired me to pursue a career as a professor. I also envision bringing art workshops to reservations in my state and beyond."
Her accomplishments are a testament to her talent and drive.
"Some of my proudest accomplishments include participating in the In Our Hands exhibition at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, winning Best in Show at the Minot State Juried Show, and receiving the Ryan and Karina Stander Photography Award,” said Decoteau. “I was honored to receive the Waterers Grant and to be nominated to participate in the 2026 Artist Grant, a distinction given to only 500 artists nationwide."
These successes are rooted in her life story, a narrative of resilience, creativity, and community.
"I didn’t grow up in a traditional family setting. My siblings and I have been through a lot, breaking cycles and rising above challenges," Decoteau shared. "Creativity has always been a driving force in my life. After losing my Kookum in 2020, I experienced profound grief, but therapy guided me through it, illuminating a new path."
On campus, Decoteau is more than an artist; she’s a mentor. Off campus, she continues to balance motherhood, creativity, and family life.
"I’ve embraced the role of resident auntie among my classmates. My studio has become a welcoming space filled with snacks and a go-to spot for classmates to relax and connect," said Decoteau. "But my art classes keep me super busy outside of school, and I take care of my family. Besides family time, my main thing is art. I’m really into printmaking and can't wait to dive back into darkroom photography. Art is my life right now; I’m living, breathing, and dreaming about it all the time!"
Decoteau’s journey continues to show her rediscovery, and that includes her heritage.
"I am a reconnecting Ojibwe person and a descendant of the Arikara and Northern Cheyenne tribes,” Decoteau said. “Now an adult, I am fully committed to my reconnection. I create artwork that powerfully reflects my culture, and I have built collaborative relationships with other Indigenous artists.
"My siblings and I are dedicated to breaking the cycles of trauma and addiction that have impacted our family. I am deeply grateful to the Creator for placing me on this path, where my art and story can inspire others to pursue their goals and embark on their healing journeys."
Minot State University is proud to support students like Decoteau — those whose stories light the way for others. Her journey continues to inspire not just through the lens of her camera but through her dedication to community, culture, and the transformative power of art.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 05/12/25
