Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 1935-2007, undated (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
1.42 linear feet (1 record box, 1 document case) Digital: .202 Files, 36 Folders, 12.2 MB
Context area
Name of creator
Administrative history
The Brookings Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) was founded in 1931 with 37 members under Miss Gertrude Young. Full membership recognition for South Dakota State College (SDSC) graduates came in 1950 after sustained effort.
Early programs included promoting a kindergarten, which the branch ran in the city library basement from 1932 to 1941 before it joined the public school system. During World War II, members supported the war effort through ration distribution, Red Cross work, and material salvage. The branch has consistently contributed to the National Fellowship Fund through events such as bridge benefits, style shows, and sales of maps, books, and calendars.
Scholarships have long been a priority. A junior-year fellowship evolved in 1962 to awards for a high school senior and an incoming SDSC student. Following Miss Young’s death in 1964, these became the Gertrude Young-AAUW Scholarships.
Study groups have grown in importance. By 1954, groups covered child study, money management, international relations, music, and crafts. In 1963–64, the focus shifted to four areas: community problems, cultural interests, education, and world issues. These groups spurred action programs including support for educational television, international book distribution, special education initiatives, and engagement with legislative issues, particularly in education and women’s rights.
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
This collection documents the activities and governance of the American Association of University Women, Brookings Branch, offering valuable insight into the organization's role in promoting education, women's rights, and community engagement. It includes reports, minutes, newsletters, programs, bylaws, and correspondence, though no series is complete.
The collection provides documents related to the branch's administrative functions, including annual reports, bylaws, financial and fundraising activities, and meeting minutes from both regular and executive board sessions. These records highlight the decision-making processes, organizational priorities, and project initiatives undertaken by members. Membership lists and reports on various projects further illustrate the group's impact on local and national issues.
Of particular significance is the documentation on accreditation efforts, project initiatives, and study groups, which reflect the branch's commitment to education and social advocacy. The history of the Brookings Branch contains valuable narratives on its founding and key figures, including Vivian Volstorff, who played a crucial role in the branch's accreditation, and Gertrude Stickney Young, its first president. The collection also includes correspondence, news clippings, and a scrapbook that was dismantled for preservation purposes, offering researchers insight into the branch's evolving role in civic engagement.
Newsletters and event programs further illustrate the organization's outreach efforts and evolving priorities over time. Fundraising records, member surveys, and policy documents provide context for the branch's financial and strategic decision-making. Photographs, brochures, and promotional materials add a visual dimension to the collection, offering a deeper understanding of the group's public presence.
This collection is a valuable resource for researchers studying women's organizations, grassroots activism, and local history. It sheds light on the Brookings Branch's contributions to educational initiatives, legislative advocacy, and broader societal issues, making it an essential reference for those examining the intersection of gender, education, and civic engagement.
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Using this inventory:
- This inventory lists the collection’s physical materials; it is not a digital repository.
- Select a folder title, then scroll down to view its details.
- Some materials cannot be digitized because of copyright, donor restrictions, or physical condition.
- Available digital materials are linked on the record page.
- For access or copies, contact SDSU Archives and Special Collections.
Conditions governing reproduction
Conditions governing access Information request form: Ask Us!
- This collection is open for research in the Reading Room; materials cannot be checked out.
- Not all materials are digitized due to copyright, donor restrictions, or physical condition.
- Contact us in advance to prepare for your visit. If you cannot visit, we will do our best to help remotely.
Telephone: 605-688-5094
Email: arcrefs@sdstate.edu
Language of material
English
Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Using this inventory
- This inventory lists the collection’s materials; not all are digitized due to copyright, restrictions, or condition.
- If available, digital links appear in the folder details. Select a folder title and scroll down to view the record details.
Finding aids
Uploaded finding aid
Allied materials area
Existence and location of originals
Existence and location of copies
Related units of description
Notes area
Note
Copyright and Use Statement
In Copyright This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use.