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The Eminent Farmer and Homemaker Program has been a program of South Dakota State University since 1927. In that first year, following a campaign by the Farmer magazine and the South Dakota Agricultural Extension Service, the South Dakota Board of Regents named two South Dakota farmers Eminent Farmers. In addition to the degree granted by the Board of Regents, the farmer's portraits were hung on the wall in Agricultural Hall in what became known as the ""Wall of Fame"". In 1928, the Eminent Farmers were joined by two Master Farm Homemakers, a title granted by the Farmer's Wife magazine and the South Dakota Agricultural Extension Service. Women in 12 other states also received the citation, which began as an effort to heighten awareness of the role the farm home played in the community. These Master Homemakers also had portraits placed on the wall and were given the citation in a ceremony taking place at the same time as the Eminent Farmer ceremony. Beginning in 1935, the women's title changed to Eminent Farm Homemaker and the women, along with the men, were granted the degree by the South Dakota Board of Regents. Later still, the title evolved to its current name Eminent Homemaker.

In the early years, the Board of Regents actually granted an honorary degree to the chosen nominees. In the 1950's, the terms were clarified to set the citations apart from that of an honorary degree yet are still a great honor. Today, the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, the College of Family and Consumer Sciences and the Cooperative Extension Service jointly administer the Eminent Farmer and Homemaker program at South Dakota State University. The college deans and the director of the Extension Service appoint a committee made up of faculty and staff of the respective divisions to take responsibility for the program. Each spring, this committee sends out a letter to County Extension offices asking for nominations and alerts the news media that nominations are being sought. The committee makes recommendations based upon the nominees' contributions to their communities, their families and the professions. Their final recommendations are sent to the president of South Dakota State University for approval and then forwarded to the Board of Regents for final approval.

In 2019, the name of the program was changed to Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family, and Community.

In the late 1960s, the South Dakota Legislature established the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education and tasked it with creating an Academic Master Plan to define the roles of the state’s public universities and improve efficiency. As part of this plan, Committee D was charged with reviewing academic programs. In 1969, the committee recommended consolidating engineering education in South Dakota by transferring the South Dakota State University (SDSU) College of Engineering to the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, citing projected cost savings of $200,000.

The proposal sparked widespread controversy at SDSU and across the state. Faculty, students, alumni, and local supporters expressed strong opposition, fearing the loss of SDSU’s long-established engineering programs and the negative impact on the university’s identity and mission. The issue gained extensive coverage in local media and was intensely debated in public forums and Board of Regents meetings.

The controversy culminated between February and March 1971, when the Board of Regents ultimately decided not to eliminate the SDSU College of Engineering. The episode became a defining moment in the university’s history, symbolizing institutional resilience and the community’s commitment to preserving engineering education at SDSU. Today, the episode is documented in archival records, committee minutes, local newspaper accounts, and scholarly works, including a thesis examining the rhetoric and public discourse of the debate.

The mission of Engineering Extension is to assist the private and public sectors of the state with their technical needs for the purpose of economic development. These programs satisfy these needs: 1) Occupational safety and health surveys of the workplace for any South Dakota employers who request the service. 2) Training workshops and seminars to update skills regarding technical needs and to certify individuals who are required to work under specific government regulations (e.g. asbestos).

The Engineering Resource Center, established in 1986, serves the university, citizens, and industry in South Dakota through a combination of outreach and technology transfer programs. These programs are designed to be complementary, with knowledge gained from one often supporting or enhancing the others. The center's initiatives include Engineering Extension, the Office of Remote Sensing, the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, the South Dakota Local Transportation Assistance Program, the University/Industry Technology Service, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and the Essential Networking and Training for Entrepreneurship (ENTRE) program.

The center undertakes projects directly or through interdisciplinary teams composed of students, university faculty, and external experts. It maintains an online expertise database to help identify faculty and industrial consultants, along with a separate database containing information on manufacturers and processors in South Dakota.

The South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, funded in part by NASA, includes South Dakota State University, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Augustana College, and the EROS Data Center. Its goal is to foster interest in aerospace science among students and faculty and to encourage careers in related fields. The University/Industry Technology Service links university resources with industry, business, and government to solve technical problems and support economic development. The ENTRE program offers a ten-session course designed to help individuals explore and refine entrepreneurial ideas, promoting business development and economic growth across the state. The Office of Remote Sensing, established in 1969 as the Remote Sensing Institute with support from Senator Karl Mundt, uses multispectral imagery and geographic information systems for natural resource studies and mapping projects in South Dakota and beyond. It is supported by both state and federal funding.

Dr. Ethel Austin Martin graduated from South Dakota State University in 1916 and went on to complete graduate studies at Columbia University and the University of Chicago. She taught at several institutions before joining the National Dairy Council in 1929, where she served as Director of Nutrition Services until her retirement. A nationally respected nutritionist, Dr. Martin was instrumental in advancing the field through the development of research grant programs, the organization of nutrition conferences, the founding of academic journals, and the authorship of several influential textbooks.

Before her death in 1993 at the age of 100, Dr. Martin established an endowment at SDSU with the goal of creating a permanent professorship to ensure high-quality, ongoing instruction in nutrition science. That vision was realized in 1997 with the establishment of the Ethel Austin Martin Chair in Human Nutrition, first held by Dr. Bonny Specker.

The Ethel Austin Martin Program in Human Nutrition was created to advance knowledge in the science of human nutrition through a multidisciplinary approach. It seeks to foster practical applications that improve public health and provide professional development opportunities for students, faculty, and staff at SDSU.

The program supports active research projects both within the program itself and through collaborations with other investigators at SDSU and throughout the region. It provides financial support for pilot projects that involve multidisciplinary partnerships. Educational efforts include formal coursework and support for visiting seminar speakers. A central tradition of the program is the annual E.A. Martin Distinguished Lecture in Human Nutrition, which brings world-renowned experts to campus and reinforces SDSU’s commitment to excellence in nutrition education and research.

The Physical Plant was established as a service organization to support the university’s primary objectives by providing and maintaining the physical environment and associated services. Its operations were funded through a combination of state-appropriated funds, charges for services and supplies provided to specific departments or activities, and maintenance and repair allocations from the Board of Regents for designated projects.

Services provided by the Physical Plant included the operation, maintenance, repair, and remodeling of university buildings and grounds, as well as the operation and repair of selected equipment. Additional services encompassed custodial work in academic, administrative, and some research buildings; central mailing and U.S. mail delivery; moving services; security; trash collection and disposal; key and lock management; pest control; utilities operation and maintenance; building and land inventory; event setup; facilities engineering; and acting as a liaison for construction, maintenance, and remodeling projects.

In 2008, the Physical Plant was renamed Facilities and Services.

The Faculty Association records document the establishment and development of the South Dakota State College (SDSC) Faculty Association from its founding in 1946 until its dissolution in the early 1970s. The organization was formed to promote unity and cooperation among faculty, administration, and the South Dakota Board of Regents. According to its original constitution, the Faculty Association aimed to establish procedures for carrying out faculty duties and responsibilities, facilitate communication, and elect faculty representatives.

Membership included all faculty members holding the rank of instructor or higher. Although the Faculty Association did not function as a decision-making body, it served as a forum for addressing general faculty welfare concerns. It also elected up to five representatives to the President’s Administrative Council, the institution's main administrative policymaking body.

In the late 1960s, following a faculty vote to establish an Academic Senate, the Faculty Association’s role began to diminish. It continued to meet during the transition but ceased functioning entirely after 1972.

Faculty meetings were a longstanding tradition at South Dakota State University, regularly convened by the university president to share information on campus and external developments. In the institution’s early years, these meetings also served as forums for faculty decision-making on policies and procedures. As the university expanded, it became increasingly difficult to conduct such comprehensive meetings, prompting the creation of more formal administrative bodies such as the Council of Deans. Faculty meetings continued but shifted toward a primarily informational function.

By the late 1940s, faculty expressed a need for more structured representation beyond informational meetings. The Faculty Association emerged to serve as an advocacy group for faculty interests. In the mid-1960s, the formation of the Academic Senate further formalized faculty governance. President Emeritus H.M. Briggs characterized later faculty meetings as resembling town hall gatherings—open to all faculty, optional in attendance, and informal in structure. By the early 1970s, these meetings transitioned from a monthly schedule to being held once per semester or on an as-needed basis.

South Dakota State University has a long-standing tradition of faculty governance. In 1946, faculty established the Faculty Association to advocate for faculty interests and welfare. While not a formal decision-making body, the association played a consultative role in shaping university policies. By the mid-1960s, faculty sought a more formal role in institutional governance. Following extensive discussion, they voted to establish an Academic Senate, which was implemented in 1970. The Faculty Association facilitated the transition and formally disbanded in 1972.

The Academic Senate was created to serve as a representative body for faculty, researchers, campus-based extension specialists, and non-teaching professional staff. While similar bodies exist at other institutions, the SDSU Academic Senate is distinct in its composition, scope, and authority.

As an elected body, the Academic Senate represents faculty interests, promotes institutional improvement, facilitates communication, and contributes to the development of university policies. It holds constitutional authority for formulating and approving policies related to academic, faculty, student, and internal senate affairs, within the constraints of state law and Board of Regents regulations.

The Faculty Women’s Club at South Dakota State College (now South Dakota State University) was established following a meeting convened by Mrs. Elwood C. Perisho, wife of the college president. The organization was formed to promote relationships between female faculty members, faculty wives, and women students, while also encouraging social engagement among club members.

Early organizational efforts resulted in the establishment of four standing committees: the Student Loan Fund Committee, the Extension Committee, the Hospital Bed Committee, and the Faculty Mother Committee. The Extension Committee developed programs for members and disseminated information about the college to prospective students. The Hospital Bed Committee was formed in response to the absence of a campus health service. The Faculty Mother Committee assigned faculty housewives to groups of women students for informal social interaction; this was later discontinued and replaced by a Courtesy Committee.

By 1926, the club maintained three primary committees: Student Loan, Courtesy, and Calling. The Student Loan Committee played a central role, raising funds through events such as benefits, teas, bake sales, film concessions, and graduation collections. These funds provided loans to students, often with small interest charges.

While the club focused largely on campus-related activities, it also participated in local civic initiatives. In the early 1920s, members collaborated with the Civic League on efforts to improve city services, including advocating for a garbage disposal system and beautification of the depot grounds. The club also established a student employment center to connect students with domestic work opportunities.

During the 1930s, the club prioritized maintaining its loan fund, which was secured by a bond. Programming expanded to include topics such as international affairs and travel. The club contributed to community efforts by helping organize the Girl Scouts in Brookings and supporting underprivileged children. They also hosted women attending campus events such as Farm and Home Week and participated in May Day celebrations.

During World War II, club members supported the war effort through Red Cross work, assembling kit bags, and purchasing war bonds and stamps. They welcomed the wives of Army Administration School attendees into the club. This period also saw the formation of interest groups focused on needlework, dramatics, book reviews, and recreation. A Newcomers Club was created to provide a three-year membership opportunity to wives of new male faculty and newly appointed female faculty.

In 1953–1954, the club endorsed the development of an art center and museum on campus, initiating a building fund and establishing a long-term planning committee. By the 1960s, the club had contributed significant financial support to the project. During this decade, the club’s student loan fund was merged with the college’s broader loan program.

In the 1970s, the club expanded its interest group offerings to include horticulture, gourmet cooking, and antiques. Regular monthly meetings were discontinued in favor of gathering three to four times annually. By the 1980s, scholarship administration was transferred to the university’s financial aid office.

The organization continued to evolve through the 1990s. By the late 1990s, the Faculty Women’s Club became the SDSU Club, opening membership to men and reflecting broader institutional changes.

The South Dakota State University Foundation was established in 1946 to support an invention by Professor E.L. Erickson. Since its founding, the Foundation has grown into the primary fundraising organization for South Dakota State University. It operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity, dedicated to advancing the university’s mission through private support.

The Foundation is governed by a 95-member Council of Trustees, which provides strategic oversight and leadership. Its mission is to unite the aspirations of students, the university, and donors to build a better SDSU. The organization raises and manages private contributions that fund scholarships, academic programs, and capital projects.

Each year, the Foundation administers scholarships benefiting more than 4,500 students. It also leads major fundraising campaigns for infrastructure development, including projects like the Avera Health and Science Center. In addition to fundraising, the Foundation manages endowments and donor funds to ensure long-term financial sustainability and impact for the university.

The Global Studies major and minor were introduced at South Dakota State University in 2004. This interdisciplinary program offers students a broad academic foundation, preparing them to be globally literate, culturally aware, and proficient in a modern foreign language.

The program provides students with a current understanding of global studies, including contemporary global events, and potential career paths in international business, global corporations, government agencies (both domestic and international), and non-governmental organizations. A central goal is to promote global citizenship and a broad perspective on the individual's relationship to the world community. Global Studies is administered through the Department of Modern Languages and Global Studies.

South Dakota State University (SDSU) granted its first Master of Science degree in 1891. The first Master of Education degree and Doctor of Philosophy degree were granted in 1958. A committee supervised all graduate work until 1957, when the Graduate School was established.

The Graduate School operates as one unit with no departments or department heads. The Graduate School is committed to providing an atmosphere for qualified students to obtain rigorous advance education in a variety of fields in preparation for service and leadership in their professions and society. It also promotes scholarly pursuits and scientific research for the advancement of knowledge within a climate of freedom of inquiry. The Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Master of Education degrees are offered in approximately 30 majors. The Doctor of Philosophy is offered in agronomy; animal science; atmospheric, environmental, and water resources; biological sciences, chemistry; and sociology. The Master of Science Teaching degree was discontinued July 1, 1996, and no new students were admitted after that date.

The graduate faculty is composed of the university president, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President for Administration, graduate dean, college deans, heads of departments in which graduate courses are given and other faculty, chosen on the basis of their training and experience, in accordance with the policies of the Graduate School. The Graduate Faculty acts on all matters of policy and standards. In addition, individual Graduate Faculty are authorized to serve as adviser to graduate students or, on their examining committees and to teach courses for graduate credit.

The Greek Council at South Dakota State University serves as the primary governing body for the university’s fraternity and sorority community. Established in 1924 as the Inter‑Fraternity Council, the organization has evolved to support a diverse and growing Greek system. The Council develops policies, promotes academic and leadership excellence, and coordinates campus-wide initiatives such as Greek Week, philanthropy events, and educational programming. Over the decades, SDSU’s Greek Council has played a central role in uniting fraternities and sororities, fostering student engagement, and shaping a vibrant campus life.

Dr. Helen Johnson Van Zante, a Brookings County native and 1920s mathematics graduate of South Dakota State College, established the Van Zante Endowment to support the visual arts at her alma mater. A physicist by training and a pioneering developer of the microwave oven, Van Zante also maintained a lifelong passion for studio art, inspired by SDSC professor Ada B. Caldwell. In 1987, following a retrospective of her paintings at the Ritz Gallery, she donated her personal art collection to the Department of Visual Arts and received an honorary doctorate. The following year, she was recognized as a Centennial Alumni by the South Dakota Board of Regents.

The endowment she created funds visiting professorships and design forums with an emphasis on interior design, housing, and visual arts. These initiatives are jointly supported by the Department of Visual Arts and the College of Family and Consumer Sciences. Since its inception, the Van Zante Endowment has enriched SDSU’s academic and cultural environment by bringing nationally recognized artists and designers to campus for lectures, exhibitions, and student engagement.

Hobo Day is the homecoming celebration of South Dakota State University and features a parade through campus and downtown Brookings, a Jackrabbits football game, and longstanding university traditions. The first Hobo Day was held on November 2, 1912. The event has developed into the largest one day celebration in South Dakota and serves as a central occasion for alumni to return to the university for athletic events and campus activities. Over time, Hobo Day has become an enduring part of South Dakota State University’s institutional history and student life.

The Home Economics Club was composed of students interested in both professional home economics and homemaking. Operating under its own constitution, the club was affiliated with the State Home Economics Association and the American Home Economics Association (now the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences). Its primary purpose was to foster friendships among students and faculty in the College of Home Economics while promoting professional development and interests. Club activities aimed to support the organization’s goals, enhance members’ knowledge and skills, broaden cultural awareness, and provide professional and social experience benefiting the community, school, and nation.

The Department of Personnel Services was renamed the Human Resources Office in 2003. This office oversees employment, fringe benefits, staff training, and records management at South Dakota State University. It provides consultation and guidance to employees and managers to support a collaborative and high-quality work environment.

The Human Resources Office is also responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. It disseminates information related to South Dakota State University and South Dakota Board of Regents policies, as well as state and federal human resources laws and guidelines. The office addresses compliance matters related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and determines employee eligibility for overtime.

In the early history of South Dakota State College, administrative support for varsity athletics was minimal. This reflected a broader trend among land-grant institutions, where college administrators often viewed competitive athletics as unnecessary, potentially hazardous, and inconsistent with the academic mission of higher education. As a result, the organization and administration of early athletic programs were primarily led by students.

Football was first organized in the fall of 1885. Like baseball and track and field, early athletic activities were generally intramural, with competition occurring between classes or campus divisions. Prior to the 20th century, intercollegiate athletic competitions included a range of events such as baseball, football, track and field, tennis, bicycle races, and oratorical contests. It is believed that intercollegiate athletic events may have originated from state oratorical competitions, where participants sought to broaden the appeal of their gatherings by including athletic contests.

One challenge in the development of early athletics at South Dakota State was the absence of professional coaching staff. Early teams were often coached by senior students or faculty members volunteering their time.

A significant development occurred in 1922 with the formation of the North Central Conference (NCC). Dr. Harry Severin, Professor of Zoology at South Dakota State, was instrumental in the founding and long-term administration of the conference, serving as its secretary for 40 years. South Dakota State College won the first championship held under the NCC.

Since the 1920s, South Dakota State University has been actively involved in intercollegiate athletics. In addition to its strong participation in the North Central Conference, the university has also played a role in introducing and supporting new sports, including wrestling, gymnastics, field hockey, swimming, and a variety of sports clubs. South Dakota State University transitioned to NCAA Division I status beginning with the 2008–09 academic year.

The Jackrabbit Stampede Rodeo is one of South Dakota State University’s oldest and most recognized athletic traditions. It originated with the founding of the SDSU Rodeo Club in October 1952, when approximately 50 students gathered in the campus Stock Judging Pavilion (now the Agricultural Heritage Museum) to organize a competitive rodeo team. Just months later, the inaugural Jackrabbit Stampede was held May 20–21, 1953, in Clear Lake, South Dakota.

Following its successful debut, the Stampede moved to Rapid City in 1954. Although the event was suspended in 1955, it resumed in 1956 and has continued annually since then, establishing itself as one of the longest-running collegiate rodeos in the region.

A pivotal relationship was formed in 1956 when the Sutton family, a prominent name in South Dakota rodeo production since 1926, began supplying livestock and equipment to the SDSU rodeo program. That partnership deepened over the decades and became foundational to the program’s development. With assistance from the Suttons, the Rodeo Club constructed its first on-campus arena in 1958 using salvaged materials and donated chutes.

During the 1960s, SDSU established designated Rodeo Grounds west of the Animal Science Arena, which served as a practice and event venue for many years. While competition eventually transitioned to indoor facilities to accommodate weather and audience needs, the grounds remain an active outdoor practice space.

The Jackrabbit Stampede is held annually each spring and draws participants from across the Great Plains Region. The rodeo is sanctioned by the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA), and SDSU competes regularly against other universities in South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Wisconsin. The Stampede is considered one of the premier events in the region and has been named NIRA’s Great Plains Region Rodeo of the Year multiple times.

Over the years, the SDSU rodeo program has grown to include full-time coaching staff, scheduled indoor and outdoor practices, travel reimbursement, and scholarships for student-athletes. More than 1,200 students have participated in the program, including several qualifiers for the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) and National Finals Rodeo (NFR).

Today, the Jackrabbit Stampede remains a central tradition at South Dakota State University, combining competitive excellence with deep-rooted community and alumni support. Its enduring partner

The first catalog of South Dakota State University included a proposed engineering curriculum. A full course of study was outlined, and by 1891, the university’s two graduates were both engineering students. Early instruction focused on civil and mechanical engineering, while electrical engineering was taught through the Department of Physics, briefly known as the Department of Physics and Electrical Engineering. By 1900, growing enrollment led to the creation of separate departments for civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

In 1924, the university reorganized into five divisions—precursors to modern colleges. The Engineering Division offered degrees in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. Physics and mathematics were housed in the General Science Division, while agricultural engineering was initially in the Agriculture Division. All eventually became part of the Engineering Division, now the College of Engineering.

In 1976, due to declining enrollment and budget concerns, the South Dakota Board of Regents proposed consolidating engineering education at the South Dakota School of Mines in Rapid City. The proposal, known on campus as the Engineering Controversy, was never implemented but generated significant opposition and renewed support for the College of Engineering at SDSU.

In 1986, the College established the Engineering and Environmental Research Center to serve the university, industry, and citizens of South Dakota. The center launched several initiatives, including the Engineering Extension Service, the Office of Remote Sensing, the South Dakota Local Transportation Assistance Program, the University/Industry Technology Service, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.

Jerome J. Lohr, who enrolled in 1955 as a civil engineering student, has had a lasting impact on the College of Engineering through his leadership, philanthropy, and advocacy. In recognition, the South Dakota Board of Regents approved renaming the college the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering on June 20, 2013.

The Latin American Area Studies Program was first introduced in the 1976–78 general catalog and has remained largely consistent in focus since its inception.

The program is designed to allow students to pursue interdisciplinary studies across colleges and departments, combining Spanish language instruction with coordinated coursework on the geography, culture, socio-economics, and politics of Latin American countries.

Primarily vocational in nature, the program is intended for students seeking a Latin American emphasis alongside a disciplinary major in areas such as history, economics, political science, geography, anthropology, Spanish American literature, sociology, or professional fields like Food and Nutrition or Agronomy.

The program prepares students for careers in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, nursing, international business, the Foreign Service, the Peace Corps, and roles with government agencies, the United Nations, or private companies engaged in Latin America. It also fosters improved communication and understanding between Latin America and the United States.

Little International is a two-day agricultural exposition planned, organized, and managed by students at South Dakota State University. Recognized as the largest student-run two-day agricultural event in the country, it offers high school and college students the opportunity to compete in livestock judging, showmanship, and fitting contests.

The event has been held annually since 1921, with only three cancellations: in 1926 due to a Scarlet Fever epidemic, and in 1944–1945 during World War II. Modeled after the Chicago International Livestock Exposition, the first Little International took place in what is now the Agricultural Heritage Museum. It was relocated to the Intramural Building in 1952 and has been held in the Animal Science Arena since 1977.

In the week leading up to the exposition, student staff transform the Arena by constructing the iconic red barn and white fence, setting up bleachers, and preparing the green-dyed wood chips for the show ring. Each staff member is responsible for fulfilling the duties of their assigned committee, which may involve organizing contests, managing livestock, or coordinating the event schedule.

Little International provides a dynamic, hands-on learning environment that helps students develop technical skills, time management, responsibility, and leadership. It also fosters camaraderie, school spirit, and networking among participants, making it a hallmark experience for students pursuing careers in agriculture.

The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at South Dakota State University traces its origins to early instruction in electrical engineering, which began in 1899 within the physics curriculum. A separate Department of Electrical Engineering was formally established in 1909. In 1968, the department launched the Center for Power System Studies (CPSS) to strengthen collaboration between the university and the regional power industry.

Computer Science developed as a distinct discipline in the early 1980s, beginning with the introduction of a minor in 1980 and the formation of a standalone department soon afterward. The university introduced a bachelor's degree in computer science in 1983, followed by a graduate program in 1991. In 2003, the departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science were merged, forming the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. A software engineering program was added at that time but discontinued in 2011 due to budget constraints.

In 2017, as part of a university-wide college reorganization, the department became part of the newly established Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering. Today, the department offers undergraduate degrees in electrical engineering and computer science and continues to support industry-focused initiatives through CPSS while maintaining its longstanding role in engineering education at SDSU."

The Miltonian Literary Society was one of the earliest student organizations at South Dakota State University. Originally founded as the Lyceum Club in the early 1880s with male-only membership, it split in 1887 to form the coeducational Athenian Literary Society. In 1892, the Lyceum Club reorganized under a new charter as the Miltonian Literary Society. The group focused on developing forensic, dramatic, and social skills through debates, oratory, extemporaneous speaking, dramatic readings, and one-act plays. The society remained active until the early 1930s.

Instruction in general economics at South Dakota State College began under the name of political economy. It was later integrated with history and philosophy before becoming an independent discipline in 1921 with the establishment of the Department of Farm Economics. The department focused on teaching, research, and extension, and over time, became a leader in the scientific study of South Dakota's economic issues.

As noted in the 1996–1998 Undergraduate Bulletin, the Economics Department prepares students to apply economic principles and analytical techniques to decision-making in areas such as agricultural business, agricultural economics, and general economics. The curriculum emphasizes core economic concepts, equipping students to understand the complexities of the economic and business environment and to pursue graduate study in fields such as economics, agricultural economics, business administration, management, finance, and law.

The department offers Bachelor of Science degrees in agricultural business and agricultural economics through the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, and a Bachelor of Science in economics through the College of Arts and Sciences, with an optional emphasis in business economics. Minors are available in accounting, agricultural business, agricultural marketing, and economics. These programs prepare students for careers in farm and ranch management, agricultural finance, agribusiness, banking, business management, sales, marketing, government service, and related fields.

The Non-Traditional Student Club aimed to foster a community for individuals interested in lifelong learning. Its goals included expanding educational opportunities for a diverse student population, promoting the exchange of experiences among members with varied backgrounds, and providing support and information to anyone pursuing educational opportunities at South Dakota State University. Membership was open to all students interested in lifelong learning, with associate membership available to university staff and prospective students.

The Non-Traditional Student Program Office supported students who had experienced a break in their education or who were older than traditional college-age students. The office provided advising services, access to a dedicated lounge, and opportunities for involvement through the Non-Traditional Students Club. Both the program and the club were formalized in the mid-1970s, with the office serving as the coordinating body for the club, which was officially established in April 1976.

The Office for Diversity Enhancement, formerly known as the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity, supports South Dakota State University's commitment to fostering diversity across campus. The office advises the university community and develops programming aimed at promoting diversity in teaching, learning, and cultural engagement. It collaborates with the Office of Admissions on minority student recruitment and with Human Resources on Equal Opportunity efforts. The office also organizes the annual Festival of Cultures, which highlights and celebrates the university's diverse community. The University maintains a strong commitment to an inclusive environment that upholds dignity and ensures all individuals can reach their full potential without discrimination or harassment.

Before 1960, academic programs and related matters at South Dakota State College were managed independently by departments and offices. As responsibilities expanded, the position of Dean of Academic Affairs was established in 1960 to centralize oversight. In 1973, the title was changed to Vice President for Academic Affairs, reflecting the position’s elevated role. Simultaneously, the Vice President for Administration (formerly Assistant to the President) was created to oversee non-academic administrative functions.

The Vice President for Academic Affairs, serving as the university’s chief academic officer, reports directly to the president. All college deans—including those from Arts and Sciences, Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Family and Consumer Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy, General Registration, Education and Counseling, the Graduate School, and the Library—report to this office.

Key responsibilities include oversight of curriculum development, faculty affairs, scholarship standards, academic advising, honorary degrees, and appeals related to academic integrity. The office plays a central role in establishing and maintaining the university’s academic policies and standards.

The Admissions Office at South Dakota State University has its roots in the institution’s earliest years, dating back to its founding as Dakota Agricultural College in the 1880s. Early admissions efforts were modest, consisting primarily of catalog announcements and classification documents aimed at informing prospective students of academic offerings and enrollment procedures. By the early 20th century, the office began producing more formal recruitment materials, including circulars of information and promotional pamphlets.

As the university grew through the mid-20th century, the Admissions Office expanded its scope to include targeted viewbooks, fact sheets, and correspondence campaigns designed to attract students from across South Dakota and beyond. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw significant changes in both outreach and operations, including the development of newsletters, campus visit events such as Junior Day, orientation programming, and the adoption of digital tools for application and communication. Throughout its history, the office has adapted to changing enrollment trends, technologies, and institutional goals while continuing to serve as the gateway to the university for thousands of students.

South Dakota State University has a longstanding commitment to outreach, delivering educational services across South Dakota, the region, and beyond. These services include programs at the University Center in Sioux Falls, the West River Graduate Center in Rapid City, the Capital University Center (CUC) in Pierre, Nursing Upward Mobility, and various distance education classes, workshops, and services.

Continuing and Distance Education, previously known as Outreach Programming and the Division of Lifelong Learning and Outreach, coordinates off-campus educational programs, supporting the University’s mission to serve citizens statewide and globally. These outreach efforts include state- and self-supported programs delivered through on-site and distance education, credit and non-credit courses, conferences, workshops, and short courses.

In 2000, Outreach Programming was placed under the College of General Registration. In 2007, the Office of Continuing and Extending Education was established as an independent administrative unit. This office oversees Distance Education, including internet-based courses and Digital Dakota Network (DDN) offerings.

Outreach sites include the Capital University Center in Pierre, University Center (South Dakota Public Universities and Research Center) in Sioux Falls, West River Graduate Center in Rapid City, and Lake Area Technical Institute (LATI) in Watertown. Programs include University Week for Women, Tax Update Workshops, Continuing Education Units, the Nursing RN Upward Mobility program, and a range of conferences and institutes.

The Environmental Health and Safety Office at South Dakota State University (SDSU) is responsible for supporting campus personnel in maintaining a safe learning and working environment for faculty, staff, and students. The office implements and enforces regulatory codes applicable to teaching and research activities and provides assistance to departments in evaluating their current safety conditions.

The Financial Aid Office administers a variety of student financial assistance programs, including federal and state aid, scholarships, and awards from government agencies such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Veterans Administration, and Vocational Rehabilitation. Approximately 80% of full-time students at South Dakota State University receive some form of financial assistance. The office is also responsible for determining students’ educational costs.

The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment, reporting to the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, is led by a full-time director and supported by four staff members. The office coordinates university-wide assessment initiatives and provides a range of testing services for students and the broader community.

Student assessment begins at the freshman level with placement determined by ACT or COMPASS scores. The office also facilitates the Cooperative Institutional Research Program (CIRP), a national longitudinal study collecting baseline data on first-year students.

At the mid-level, departmental staff administer the Collegiate Assessment of Academic Proficiency (CAAP) exam—mandated by the State Board of Regents—which measures student skills in writing, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning.

The office oversees the collection and review of departmental assessment plans. After each term, departments submit summary data from graduating senior exit evaluations for central recording and analysis.

The Director also serves as a campus-wide consultant on assessment practices. Periodic surveys of current students and alumni support ongoing evaluation efforts.

Additional services include operating a testing center for exams such as the ACT, CLEP, and MCAT; proctoring exams for SDSU and non-SDSU students; administering Board of Regents proficiency tests; scoring and reporting results for faculty; designing surveys; offering consultation; and processing instructor evaluation forms.

The Office of International Affairs (OIA) serves as the administrative unit at South Dakota State University (SDSU) for initiating, coordinating, and managing programs that promote international engagement across the university.

Established in 1988 as the Office of International Programs, the unit was first directed by Dr. David Hilderbrand. During his tenure, SDSU signed its first international exchange agreements with institutions in China, South Korea, and England. Dr. Hilderbrand led the office until fall 1993, when he became Director of SDSU Sioux Falls Programs.

In November 1993, Associate Professor Harriet Swedlund became Acting Director and was appointed Director in May 1994. She served until her retirement in fall 2003. Under her leadership, the office experienced significant growth in international student and faculty exchanges and developed partnerships with over a dozen institutions and two major consortia: the College Consortium for International Studies (CCIS) and the Cooperative Center for Study Abroad (CCSA).

Dr. Karl J. Schmidt, who joined SDSU in September 2003 from Missouri Southern State University, is the office’s third director. With a background in international affairs and Asian history, Dr. Schmidt has expanded semester-abroad programs and faculty initiatives. SDSU has also joined national organizations such as the American Council on Education’s Internationalization Collaborative, the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), and the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP).

In September 2005, the office was renamed the Office of International Affairs to better reflect the breadth of its activities.

The Office of Multicultural Affairs at South Dakota State University develops and coordinates campus initiatives that support multiculturalism within the university community. The office facilitates programs and activities aimed at promoting academic success and enhancing the overall college experience for students from underrepresented backgrounds. It contributes to the university’s broader mission by fostering inclusive social, cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities.

Key functions of the office include providing support services for students of color, coordinating multicultural programming, managing the National Student Exchange and the Minority Peer Mentor programs, and assisting in recruitment efforts focused on underrepresented student populations.

The Minority Student Orientation program serves incoming students who identify as African American, Asian American, American Indian, or Latino. The program provides opportunities for students to build community and connect with university resources.

Cultural organizations affiliated with the Office of Multicultural Affairs include the African Students' Association, Bangladesh Students' Organization, Chinese Students Association, Indian Students' Association, International Relations Club, Arabian Club, Black Student Alliance, Japanese Students' Association, Islamic Cultural Club, Malaysian Students' Association, and the Native American Club. Records related to these and other student organizations can be found under UA 35 Student Organizations.|The Minority Peer Mentor Program is designed to assist new ethnic minority students in transitioning to academic and social life at South Dakota State University and within the Brookings community. The program connects first-year students with upper-class peer mentors to foster supportive relationships that promote academic success, personal development, and engagement with campus resources.

Program goals include fostering intellectual growth, developing academic and time management skills, addressing cultural and interpersonal topics, and supporting student retention and graduation. Peer mentors provide guidance, act as role models, and serve as liaisons to university support services.

The Records and Registration Office maintains official student records, including enrollment, biographical data, grades, credits, and degrees awarded. It oversees course registration, assesses tuition and fees, and issues transcripts upon receipt of written, signed requests. The office also processes enrollment verifications, monitors athletic eligibility, prepares semester course schedules, assigns classrooms, and provides reports and analyses on enrollment and academic performance. In coordination with college deans, the Registrar facilitates the graduation clearance process, manages candidate lists, and assists with commencement ceremonies.

The Office of the President oversees the general administration of the university. In addition to various administrative responsibilities, the president prepares an annual report for the Board of Regents. This report typically includes updates on current and past university affairs, policies, and future plans.

Historically, the president managed most administrative functions and often held a faculty position. As the university’s operations grew more complex, these responsibilities were increasingly delegated to other administrators. The president is appointed by the Board of Regents.

Theodore Schultz was the only graduate of South Dakota State University to receive a Nobel Prize. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1979 for his groundbreaking work on the theory of investing in human capital. To honor this achievement, a planning committee was established to organize a series of campus events and activities celebrating Dr. Schultz’s legacy and scholarly impact.

The Plant Science Department at South Dakota State University was established in 1969 through the merger of the Agronomy and Plant Pathology Departments. In 1979, entomologists were added when the Entomology and Zoology Department was dissolved. Thus, the department’s history reflects the evolution of these three academic areas.

Agronomy instruction began in 1888, with early field trials conducted through the Agricultural Experiment Station. Initially part of the Geology and Agronomy Department, agronomy became an independent department in 1902. Over the decades, the department developed strengths in plant breeding, crop and soil science, and seed variety research and instruction.

Plant pathology followed a similar trajectory, with early instruction offered under the Botany Department. The department underwent multiple name changes—reflecting its evolving focus—before officially becoming the Plant Pathology Department in 1950. Research was primarily conducted through the Agricultural Experiment Station.

The Entomology and Zoology Department existed from 1920 to 1979, though courses in these areas were offered as early as 1887. Scientific investigations began in 1888 under the Agricultural Experiment Station. The department shifted from the General Science Division to the Agriculture Division in 1925. From 1938 to 1963, wildlife management courses were included before becoming a separate area. When the department was dissolved in 1979, entomology joined Plant Science, while zoology moved to Biology.

In 2011, the Plant Science Department merged with the Department of Horticulture, Forestry, Landscape and Parks. The department’s expertise now includes agronomy, entomology, genetics, horticulture, landscape architecture, plant pathology, plant physiology, soil science, and weed science. It offers B.S. degrees in Agronomy, Horticulture, and Landscape Architecture, as well as M.S. and Ph.D. programs in Agronomy and Biological Science. The department consistently ranks among the top at SDSU for research expenditures and productivity.

Facilities span six campus buildings, housing laboratories, greenhouses, seed facilities, and the functional genomics core. Additional resources include the SDSU Seed Testing Laboratory, Plant Diagnostics Clinic, Seed Certification, and Foundation Seed Stocks Division. Research is also conducted at three nearby research farms and four statewide research stations. Field Specialists are based in six regional extension offices. The department’s newest facility is the McCrory Gardens Education and Outreach Center.

The Publications Council served as the advisory body for all student publications at South Dakota State College. Its membership consisted of two faculty members appointed by the university president, the student editors and business managers of The Collegian and the Jackrabbit, representatives from other recognized student publications, and additional members selected by the Board of Control. The Council oversaw the operations of The Collegian and the Jackrabbit and exercised supervisory authority over other student publications in accordance with the student constitution.

Individuals, groups, or organizations seeking to initiate a new publication or program were required to obtain the Council’s approval. Working jointly with the Board of Control, the Council regulated the types of advertising permitted in all student publications. Its duties also included recommending engravers for the Jackrabbit and approving related contractual agreements.

The Council was responsible for nominating and recommending candidates for the positions of business manager and managing editor of the Jackrabbit and The Collegian. Applicants, typically rising juniors or seniors, submitted written applications. Candidates for editor of The Collegian were required to submit at least three original editorials and three news articles and have a minimum of one year of experience on the newspaper staff. All applicants were required to meet the academic standards of the college. The Council forwarded two candidates for each position to the Board of Control, which made the final appointments. It also advised the Board on staff salary recommendations for the publications under its jurisdiction.

The Publications Council appears to have been dissolved around 1970. Its advisory functions are now carried out by the Media Council, which provides support and oversight for The Collegian, the Jackrabbit yearbook, and KSDJ Radio Station.

The Remnant Trust is a public educational foundation dedicated to sharing a growing collection of original and first edition works that explore the themes of liberty and dignity, with some volumes dating as early as 1250. In the fall semester of 2005, South Dakota State University hosted a loan of fifty titles from the Remnant Trust. These rare volumes were housed in the SDSU Archives & Special Collections within the Hilton M. Briggs Library. The initiative emphasized direct engagement with historical texts, encouraging students, faculty, scholars, and the public to touch, feel, and read the original works. This hands-on approach reflected the Trust's mission to make historical materials accessible and to foster a deeper understanding of the philosophical foundations of freedom and human rights.

The loan of these materials to SDSU marked a significant academic and cultural enrichment for the university community. By providing access to primary source texts spanning centuries, the collaboration promoted intellectual curiosity, historical inquiry, and public scholarship.

The Department of Residential Life at South Dakota State University oversees all on-campus housing and food services. Residence halls serve as living-learning communities, fostering personal growth, academic success, and social interaction. Unmarried students are generally required to live in residence halls and participate in a meal plan unless they have completed four semesters of full-time enrollment or are at least two years post–high school graduation. Family housing and select apartments are also available. The department manages the University Food Service, which offers a high-quality, cost-effective dining program. All residence hall students must purchase at least a Base meal plan. A computer-based declining balance system allows for individualized account management. Meal plans are also available to other students, faculty, and staff at discounted rates.

From 1908 to 1960, the South Dakota School of Agriculture at Brookings provided practical, vocational education to young men and women across South Dakota. Operating on the campus of South Dakota tate College, the school offered a five-month academic year focused on vocational agriculture and home economics, while still including standard subjects such as English and arithmetic. Students, known as Aggies, participated in extracurricular activities, including publishing a school newspaper, and often balanced their education with work or family responsibilities during the remaining seven months of the year.

In its early years, the school attracted strong enrollment from rural students, many of whom were older than traditional high school age and lacked access to nearby secondary schools. The short academic term and residential model appealed to students who lived far from established public high schools.

The passage of the Smith-Hughes Act of 1917, which funded vocational programs in public schools, contributed to a gradual decline in enrollment. The establishment of more high schools throughout South Dakota further reduced the demand for the School of Agriculture. In the post-World War II era, the school shifted focus to offering agricultural certificates akin to associate degrees. By the early 1950s, home economics courses were phased out, and female enrollment dropped significantly.

Despite maintaining agricultural offerings, declining student numbers led South Dakota State College to discontinue the high school-level curriculum in 1959. The school was officially closed in June 1960, after the final class graduated. Its closure marked the end of a transitional institution that had long served rural South Dakota youth at a time when access to secondary education was limited.

The first journalism course at South Dakota State College was offered in 1908, 27 years after the college's founding, during a period when journalism programs were emerging in many Midwestern state universities. In 1919, the School of Printing was established, and in 1924, Journalism Professor Charles D. Byrne, later Chancellor of Higher Education for Oregon, merged the journalism and printing departments to form the Department of Printing and Rural Journalism.

In the 1930s and 1940s, the department offered a two-year printing program combined with three additional years of journalism, resulting in a Bachelor of Science in Printing and Rural Journalism (PRJ). The department achieved accreditation in 1948, the first year of national journalism accreditation. South Dakota State College was the first department to be visited by an accrediting team and recommended for accreditation, according to Dean Earl English of the University of Missouri School of Journalism. In 1951, under department head George Phillips, the current building was dedicated.

In 1956, the PRJ program was revised to a four-year curriculum, and a Bachelor of Science in Printing Management was introduced. That same year, the department began offering a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and a Master of Science in Journalism. In 1958, a Master of Science in Printing Management was added, making the department one of the few in the country to offer a graduate degree in printing management. The program was discontinued in 1972.

After Professor Phillips retired in 1973, Professor Vernon Keel, who later became director of the Elliott School of Communication at Wichita State University, took over as department head. The graduate program was suspended from 1973 to 1975 to focus on the undergraduate program. Professor Keel resigned in 1976 to become department head at the University of North Dakota. Professor Ruth Laird led the department until 1978, followed by Professor Richard Lee, who served from 1978 to 2002. Professor Mary Arnold, the current department head, was appointed in 2002.

English has been an established course of study since the College’s founding. Early curricula included three English courses associated with agriculture, general science, and civil engineering, each emphasizing grammar, composition, speech, rhetoric, literary theory and practice, and the history of English drama. These core subjects have remained central to English instruction over the years.

According to the 1998–2000 bulletin, the English Department’s curriculum is organized into two areas: English and linguistics. Instruction covers critical thinking, language history and usage, literature, literary criticism, and technical communication. The English major prepares students for careers in teaching, writing, and editing, as well as for professional study in law, business, theology, library science, and social work—fields where strong language skills are essential.

The SDSU Advisory Council was established to promote a clearer understanding of the university’s objectives, activities, challenges, and needs in relation to the broader needs of the State of South Dakota. Its primary function was to consult with the university administration on these matters, study them from the perspective of citizens and public welfare, and communicate its conclusions both to the administration and, through appropriate channels, to the public.

The Council did not function as a legislative lobby, nor did it replace any existing organizations focused on specific aspects of the university’s operations. Its membership was composed of individuals from across the state representing diverse sectors of business and industry.

The Stakota Club, originally known as the Cottontails, was organized in the early 1940s as a co-educational pep organization. The group was reorganized under the new name to create a more unified and effective presence in promoting school spirit. Membership was selective, and members were dedicated to supporting university athletics, particularly football and basketball.

Dressed in navy and white, the coeds performed pom-pom routines alongside the pep band and cheered with the university cheerleaders to energize crowds. The club occasionally accompanied athletic teams to away games and sponsored the university's Jackrabbit mascot.

In addition to game-day activities, the Stakota Club sponsored Pep Week, which featured the election of a Pep King and Queen, as well as an annual banquet and dance. Members also contributed to campus life by serving coffee after football games, assisting with registration during Parents’ Day, and organizing a spring car wash.

In April 1969, due to declining membership, the Stakota Club voted to go inactive indefinitely.

Student organizations have played a vital role in shaping the campus culture and student experience at South Dakota State University since its early years. As SDSU grew from its founding in 1881 as a land-grant institution, students quickly began forming clubs, societies, and associations to support academic enrichment, social engagement, and community service.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, students had established literary societies such as the Athenian and Miltonian clubs, which fostered debate, public speaking, and intellectual camaraderie. As the university expanded its academic offerings, more discipline-specific groups emerged, including the Dairy Club, Home Economics Club, and Engineering Societies, helping students apply classroom learning in real-world contexts.

Throughout the post-war years and into the 21st century, student organizations diversified to reflect broader societal changes and student interests. Civil rights, women’s rights, environmentalism, and global awareness inspired the creation of advocacy groups, multicultural clubs, and service organizations. The university also saw the rise of performance and media groups, such as The Collegian (student newspaper) and KSDJ (campus radio).

As of 2025, SDSU hosts more than 240 recognized student organizations, including academic societies, honor fraternities, club sports, faith-based groups, cultural associations, and interest-based clubs. Many of these organizations maintain records in the SDSU Archives and Special Collections, preserving more than a century of student leadership and initiative.

From its earliest societies to its dynamic contemporary scene, student organizations at SDSU have continually fostered leadership, enriched academic life, and built community. They remain central to the university’s mission of developing well-rounded, engaged citizens.

Student Health is organized to provide a comprehensive range of physical and mental health services to students at minimal or no cost. Operating as a unified service, it integrates medical and counseling functions to efficiently address student needs while minimizing disruptions to academic pursuits.

The program offers outpatient primary care, medical consultation and referrals, wellness education, human sexuality services, and management of student health insurance. Mental health services include short-term individual counseling, group sessions, workshops on study skills and test anxiety, and consultation or referrals to other campus or community resources. Emphasizing student development, Student Health promotes wellness and personal responsibility.

Services are delivered by a team of physicians, nurses, and support staff capable of addressing a broad spectrum of outpatient needs, with referrals to specialists as necessary. Health education and outreach are integral, along with mandatory immunization compliance, medical testing, and health record reviews conducted in collaboration with academic and administrative units.

The Director of the Summer School was responsible for implementing university policies guiding the summer session program at South Dakota State University. Acting under the authority delegated by the university president, the director supervised and authorized the various activities associated with the summer session. The summer session typically lasted eight weeks and included standard courses, specialized workshops, and other instructional programs offered for shorter durations.

South Dakota State University offers degrees at off-campus centers in western, central or southeastern South Dakota. The University Center in Sioux Falls offers degrees in general studies, Human Development and Family Studies, Nursing, Psychology, and Sociology.

University College, formerly known as the College of General Studies, offers advising services to undecided students and provides programs that promote academic and professional success. Originally called the “Junior College” under Student Services, it served students who did not meet standard admission requirements. In 1949, it was renamed the “Office of Student Personnel and Terminal Courses,” with advising undeclared students formally added to its mission in 1969.

In 1970, admissions, records, and student personnel merged into the Division of Student Services. The Office of General Registration, part of this division, was designated a non-degree-granting college by the Board of Regents in 1974, under the leadership of Dr. Arnold Menning, and launched its first course, UC 101.

By 1984, the College of General Registration had merged with the Department of Placement and relocated to Medary Commons, serving around 600 students. In 2001, it became the “College of General Studies and Outreach Programs” and was authorized to offer Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Technical Sciences and Liberal Studies, as well as an Associate of Arts in General Studies. The college also introduced a leadership minor in 2008, along with specializations and pre-professional programs. Career Planning Services was added in 1977, and the Wintrode Tutoring Program was launched in 2005.

In 2011, the college shifted focus to supporting at-risk students and increasing first-year retention and graduation rates. That year, it piloted the Academic Success Program and transitioned to “University College,” with Career Planning Services moving to Student Affairs. The First-Year Advising Center (FYAC) and Supplemental Instruction component of the Wintrode Tutoring Program were also introduced.

Currently, the Wintrode Student Success Center houses the FYAC, Wintrode Tutoring (including Supplemental Instruction), the Academic Success Program, and a Peer Mentoring Program. West Hall hosts the University College Dean and faculty, delivering courses such as First Year Seminar, Academic and Career Exploration, Mastering Lifetime Learning Skills, and READ 041.

In spring 2013, University College launched the Exploratory Studies Program, offering students a structured path to explore academic fields and select a major with greater confidence and informed decision-making.

The Marketing and Communications unit (formerly University Relations) at South Dakota State University supports the advancement activities of the SDSU Foundation, Alumni Association, and Admissions Office. Its responsibilities include operating a news bureau and publications office, coordinating special events, and advising university administration and departments on external and internal communications. The News Bureau serves as the primary media liaison, disseminating information to print and other media outlets. The Publications Office produces most university publications, providing photography, design, writing assistance, and collaborating with the Printing Laboratory.

The University Program Council (UPC) serves as the primary programming organization at South Dakota State University, dedicated to fostering student engagement and leadership through diverse, educational, and entertaining events. Composed of 11 student leaders and organized into specialized committees, UPC plans and implements programs that support personal development and build a sense of community on campus. As a recognized student organization, UPC is funded by student fees and program-generated revenue and works year-round to offer social, recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities for the SDSU community.

The Honors College at South Dakota State University was established in the fall of 1999. President Peggy Gordon Elliott initiated the transformation of the existing honors program into a more prestigious college. Harriet Swedlund and Bob Burns were tasked with researching honors programs at other institutions and developing a model suitable for SDSU.

The Honors College was designed to reflect the characteristics of SDSU’s faculty and student body. It offers highly motivated students the opportunity to pursue a challenging and flexible honors curriculum while working toward a degree in any major. The program demonstrates South Dakota State University’s commitment to academic excellence, campus involvement, and academic enrichment.

Students in the Honors College benefit from smaller class sizes and a more rigorous curriculum, while maintaining engagement with the broader university community. The presence of Honors College students contributes to raising academic standards for the wider campus.

The mission of the Honors College is to provide high-quality academic and enrichment opportunities for motivated undergraduate students. Its curriculum is carefully designed yet flexible, emphasizing academic achievement, global awareness, cultural understanding, communication skills, and community service. The college operates on principles of flexibility, accommodation, and vision to adapt to changing needs.

When the United States entered World War I in 1917, many students left college to serve in the military. After the armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, discharged servicemen began returning to college campuses. Recognizing a responsibility to support these veterans, the South Dakota Legislature passed the “Veteran’s Free Tuition Law” in 1919, allocating $15,000 to cover tuition costs. This financial support continued through 1920.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. entered World War II on December 8, 1941. Once again, large numbers of students left college for military service. By the spring of 1944, even as the war continued, the first returning servicemen began reappearing on campus. The G.I. Bill (Public Law 346), signed into law on June 22, 1944, provided comprehensive benefits to eligible veterans, including government-funded education and training, unemployment readjustment allowances, and guaranteed loans for homes, farms, or businesses. The education and training provisions ended on July 25, 1951, though those already enrolled or with valid interruptions could continue. Training benefits under this bill concluded entirely in 1956. A new G.I. Bill, passed on July 16, 1952, extended similar benefits to veterans of the Korean conflict.

In addition, the Vocational Rehabilitation Act (Public Law 16), enacted on March 24, 1943, offered training opportunities for disabled World War II veterans. Those qualifying under this act received the same subsistence allowances as those under the G.I. Bill. While training could begin any time after discharge, it had to be completed by July 25, 1956.

South Dakota State University saw many students affected by these laws. To support them, the university established a Veterans Advising Office after World War II. This office assisted returning veterans with their transition to college life, helping them navigate paperwork and access financial benefits.

The Vice President for Administration oversees campus support, service, and administrative units, ensuring efficient operations and strategic direction. Responsibilities include financial management, personnel services, facilities maintenance, student services, legal affairs, public relations, policy development, campus planning, and alumni and foundation support. This role is vital to the university's stability, growth, and ability to serve students and faculty effectively.

The Water and Environmental Engineering Research Center is located in the College of Engineering. Formerly names the Northern Great Plains Water Resources Research Center, this center conducts research, education and outreach activities through principal investigators who are faculty members in the Engineering College. Projects are funded by governmental agencies, cities and industries, and are focused on engineering solutions to water resources and environmental problems. These solutions often require collaboration with other university departments or off-campus units. The research center also maintains an environmental chemistry laboratory in Crothers Engineering Hall in conjunction with the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department. The laboratory supports research projects, environmental engineering courses and outreach activities.

The mission of the Center is to enhance the habitability and economic development of the Northern Great Plains through multidisciplinary research of the region's vast water and related land resources. The center supports this mission through the conduct of engineering and related research on significant issues affecting water resources by focusing on various disciplines in higher education such as agriculture, health and social sciences, law, chemistry, and biology in partnership with engineering, to assure a critical mass of researchers working to foster multi- and interdisciplinary work on the conservation, development, management and use of water and related land resources.

The South Dakota Water Resources Institute was established as an administrative unit of South Dakota State University on October 8, 1954, and was formally conceptualized in 1964 under the Water Resources Act. In September 1990, it was placed under the administrative authority of the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences.

The Institute provides leadership in coordinating water resources research and training at SDSU and affiliated institutions and agencies across the state. It administers funds from the U.S. Department of the Interior through the Water Resources Research Act of 1984, as well as from the state of South Dakota. These funds support research aimed at addressing water-related issues at the state, regional, and national levels. The Institute also supports graduate research, technology transfer, and information dissemination.

Additionally, the Institute operates the Water Quality Laboratory, which serves the state by providing analytical testing of inorganic constituents and select pesticides in water.

The Women's Studies Program at South Dakota State University (SDSU) is an interdisciplinary minor that allows students to explore topics related to women’s experiences and contributions across various fields. Course offerings examine the development of feminism and women’s evolving roles in family life, religion, the workforce, and politics. The program is especially relevant for students pursuing careers in social work, counseling, nursing, business, or education.

Since November 14, 1897, the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) maintained an active and influential presence at South Dakota State College. Its mission was to foster the development of mind, body, and spirit, promoting Christian faith alongside good character, citizenship, and leadership. The group organized weekly fellowship meetings, engaged in deputation work, operated an employment bureau, and provided reading rooms, rest areas, and recreational facilities. It was governed by a cabinet with members serving one-year terms.

The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) was open to all female students and aimed to support a spiritually and socially fulfilling life. It offered opportunities for Christian expression and was similarly governed by a cabinet. The YWCA also held joint meetings with the YMCA.

The Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor aimed to promote an earnest Christian life, foster mutual fellowship, and encourage service to God, as outlined in its constitution. Membership included active and associate members. Active members were young individuals who identified as Christians and were committed to the society’s purpose. Associate members were of good character but not yet ready to identify as Christians. They received the prayers and support of active members and were excused from participating in prayer meetings, with the hope that they would eventually become active members.

The history of theater at South Dakota State University began in the 1880s with the formation of eight literary societies that presented farces and plays and established traditions such as the Senior Class Play. These organizations eventually merged into a short lived dramatic club in 1923. In 1930, the Footlight Club was organized and became the primary dramatic society on campus. By 1939, theatrical productions were formally placed under the supervision of the Forensics and Dramatics Council within the Speech Department. This council oversaw all campus productions in coordination with the State Players Dramatic Club, which was founded in 1949.

A chapter of Alpha Psi Omega was officially established on the SDSU campus in 1949 and was highly active throughout the 1950s. The first designated technical director of plays at SDSU, Lawrence Stine, was appointed in 1952. Beginning in 1953, students became eligible to receive academic credit for participation in theatrical productions. In 1956, SDSU expanded its repertoire to include Broadway musicals, including a production of South Pacific, making SDSU one of the first nonprofessional groups to stage the work. That same year, summer theater productions were introduced. Revue style productions, including Rabbit Rarities and vaudeville shows, also became part of campus theater programming during the 1950s.

State University Theatre later became a unit within the Department of Communication Studies and Theatre and is also affiliated with the School of Performing Arts at South Dakota State University. Theatrical productions have been staged in more than fourteen facilities across campus, with the most recent venues including Doner Auditorium and the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center.

A comprehensive chronological history of theater programs at South Dakota State University has been documented for the period from 1892 to 1992. While records documenting theater activities after 1992 exist, they have not yet been compiled into a single, comprehensive institutional history.