UW-Madison named its new lakeshore residence hall “Dejope Residence Hall” Tuesday after a Ho-Chunk American Indian word used to describe the Madison area for thousands of years.
The university chose the name after consulting with Ho-Chunk Nation members last summer and receiving approval by the Ho-Chunk Nation Legislature last May.
“Dejope” in Ho-Chunk translates to “Four Lakes,” which refers to lakes Mendota, Monona, Kengonsa and Waubesa, all connected by the Yahara River in the Madison Area.
Features of the residence hall will recognize the influence of American Indian culture in Wisconsin, including a fire circle outside of the hall that displays bronze plaques commemorating the 11 Indian nations in the state.
Dejope Residence Hall will provide housing for 408 students after its opening August 26.
