Prior Lake, Minn. – The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) was recently named the Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce’s “Organization of the Year” during a special awards ceremony.

“The SMSC is delighted to work with so many of you as vendors, customers, guests, donation recipients, partners, and governments,” said SMSC Secretary/Treasurer Lori Watso, who accepted the award on the Community’s behalf. “I know we all share a passion for this community and are deeply invested in its future.”

“We appreciate all you do for the community,” Prior Lake Chamber Director Sandi Fleck said of the SMSC.

The chamber cited a number of reasons behind the SMSC’s selection as Organization of the Year, including:

The many local enterprises owned and operated by the SMSC
Employment of 4,200 people, making the SMSC Scott County’s largest employer
More than $7.6 million contributed to shared local road construction projects, $14.4 million paid to local governments for service, and an additional $6.4 million for other projects
Donations of 737 automated external defibrillators, resulting in 23 lives saved (12 of which were in Scott County)

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Indian tribe located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. With a focus on being a good neighbor, good steward of the earth, and good employer, the SMSC is committed to community partnerships, charitable donations, a healthy environment, and a strong economy. The SMSC and the SMSC Gaming Enterprise (Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and Little Six Casino) are the largest employer in Scott County. Out of a Dakota tradition to help others, the SMSC has also donated nearly $272 million to organizations and causes since 1992, funds its own infrastructure, and contributes generously to regional governments and infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, and emergency services.