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Clark S. Thomas was born on December 8, 1917, in rural Springfield, South Dakota. He attended South Dakota State College from 1937 to 1941, earning a degree in agriculture. From 1941 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, stationed at military posts in Texas and California, and overseas in Guatemala and India. Following his military service, he farmed near Springfield, South Dakota, until his retirement in 1980.

Joseph and Winifred (Catlett) Swering married in 1918. They began their newlywed life in Brookings, South Dakota, before moving to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where Joseph worked for Westinghouse. They later relocated to Buffalo, New York. The Catlett family had built a large home in Brookings in 1902. While living there, both Winifred and her sister, Margaruite, held their weddings in the family home. The Catlett house also hosted many social events during the family's residence. Eventually, the home was converted into student housing for South Dakota State College.

Ora Blanche Fryer Swenning was born on February 23, 1882, in Michigan to John H. and Imogen Swenehart. As an infant, she moved with her family to a homestead near Clark, South Dakota, where she spent her early childhood. Her recollections of pioneer life and survival during the blizzard of 1888 were later preserved in a personal memoir. Ora spent her later years in Minnesota and passed away on February 5, 1972, in Pipestone.

Janet Cressman Stofferan graduated from South Dakota State University in 1966 with a degree in fashion merchandising. While a student, she participated in Little International, the Home Economics Club, and the Episcopal Church Youth Group. She earned a Master of Science degree in apparel and textiles with a focus on cooperative extension education from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 1972.

Following her graduation from South Dakota State University, Stofferan worked for the Simplicity Pattern Company. In 1994, she became the museum curator of the Snellman Hsia Collection at South Dakota State University, where she was responsible for managing a historical costume collection. She retired from this position in 2008.

Rhea Beryl DeHaven Stewart (1899– ) was an educator, writer, and active member of South Dakota’s literary and educational communities. Born on September 2, 1899, in Linden, Iowa, she moved with her family to homestead near Capa, South Dakota, in 1907 and later to Wessington, South Dakota, in 1915.

Stewart began teaching at a rural school while still in high school. She completed her high school education at Northern States Teachers’ College in Aberdeen, South Dakota, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, followed by a Master of Arts in English Literature from the State University of Iowa in 1932. She held teaching positions at Roosevelt and Simmons Junior High Schools and became Director of the English Department at Central High School in Aberdeen, where she also advised the Drama Club and initiated the student publication Word Craft.

On January 24, 1943, she married Chase David Stewart and became a farm homemaker near Wessington. Stewart was a prolific poet and writer, contributing to numerous publications and receiving awards in national competitions and state literature contests. She was a member of the South Dakota Press Women and the National League of American Pen Women, serving as state president of the latter.

Stewart remained active in education through service on the South Dakota Board of Education (1947–1959) and participation in President Eisenhower’s Conference on Education in 1955. Her achievements are recognized in Who’s Who of American Women, Who’s Who in South Dakota, and International Who’s Who in Poetry.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.