Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi Chapter Records

Identity elements

Reference code

SDSU-Archives UA 035.15

Level of description

Records

Title

Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi Chapter Records

Date(s)

  • 1947, 1976-1978, 1984 (Creation)

Extent

0.21 linear feet (1 half-document case)

Name of creator

Administrative history

The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) was established in 1937. SPJ, originally founded as Sigma Delta Chi in 1901, is a national journalism organization committed to promoting ethical standards, defending First Amendment rights, and fostering the free flow of information vital to a democratic society.

From 1940 through the mid-1970s, the SDSU chapter produced The Bum and The Junior Bum—game-day programs for Jackrabbit football and basketball, respectively. The Bum was prominently associated with Hobo Day festivities. Revenue from these publications supported the chapter’s annual travel to Sigma Delta Chi national conventions.

In the mid-1970s, the chapter lost official sponsorship from the national SPJ organization, rendering continued publication of the programs financially unsustainable. Responsibility for producing The Bum and The Junior Bum was subsequently transferred to the Jackrabbit Sports Information Service within the SDSU Athletic Department. Archival copies of The Bum can be found in the Jackrabbit Sports Information Service Records (UA 46).

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Scope and content

The records of the Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi Chapter at South Dakota State University, consist primarily of scrapbooks documenting the chapter’s activities from the mid-20th century. These scrapbooks include clippings, photographs, and memorabilia related to society events, projects, and regional journalism. Due to deterioration, the scrapbooks were dismantled for preservation purposes; most materials were photocopied, and items in good condition were retained.

A notable feature of the collection is documentation of the society’s newspaper awards program, which recognized excellence in South Dakota journalism. Honors were given for achievements in local public affairs reporting, community service, editorial writing, and front-page design. Award recipients included the Canova Herald, Hot Springs Weekly Star, Madison Daily Leader, Sioux Valley News, Mobridge Tribune, Vermillion Plain Talk, and Wessington Springs Independent.

This collection offers insight into student-led professional development, regional journalism standards, and the role of collegiate chapters in advancing the mission of the Society of Professional Journalists.

This collection is a resource for researchers interested in journalism history, press ethics, student organizations, and the regional newspaper landscape in South Dakota during the mid-20th century. It also reflects the broader mission of the Society of Professional Journalists to encourage ethical journalism and professional development.

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Conditions of access and use elements

Conditions governing access

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Technical access

Conditions governing reproduction

Reproduction of materials from the collection is subject to the following conditions:

  • Permission: Written permission must be obtained from the SDSU Archives for any reproduction, publication, or quotation of materials.
  • Copyright: Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws and securing any necessary permissions from copyright holders.
  • Fragile Materials: Some items may not be reproduced due to their fragile condition.
  • Charges: Reproduction charges may apply, and users will be informed of any costs in advance.
  • Acknowledgment: Any reproduced material must include proper acknowledgment of the South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections as the source.

    For more information or to request permission, please contact the SDSU Archives.

Languages of the material

  • English

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    General 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.

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