Identity area
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Authorized form of name
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Description area
Dates of existence
History
Dr. Vivian Virginia Volstorff joined the faculty of South Dakota State University (SDSU) in 1932, where she served as Dean of Women, Director of Student Activities, and professor of history. She graduated from high school in Elgin, Illinois, and received an associate degree from Elgin Junior College. She continued her education at Northwestern University, earning three degrees: Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Philosophy.
During her tenure at SDSU, Volstorff was instrumental in founding organizations for women students, including chapters of Mortar Board and two national social sororities. In 1934, she established Women's Day, an annual campus event celebrating women and awarding scholarships. This tradition continued until 1970.
Volstorff was active in numerous professional and honorary organizations. Her memberships included the American Historical Association, National Association of Deans of Women and Counselors, and Phi Kappa Phi. She held honorary membership in Mortar Board and was a leading member of the Brookings Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). She advocated for SDSU's accreditation to ensure the Brookings Branch could gain official recognition.
Beyond campus, Volstorff was widely known across South Dakota as a speaker on international affairs and contemporary student issues. She was listed in multiple directories of professional achievement, including Who’s Who, Who’s Who of American Women, Who’s Who in American College and University Administration, Leaders in Education, Dictionary of International Biography, and the Directory of American Scholars.