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This collection is composed of materials produced and collected by the 125th Anniversary Planning Committee to document and coordinate the celebration of South Dakota State University’s quasquicentennial in 2006. The materials span a wide variety of formats and functions, including committee minutes, correspondence, event programs, publications, photographs, memorabilia, and audio-visual media. Records are arranged across three boxes and reflect the collaborative efforts of university departments, alumni, Cooperative Extension offices, and external partners to commemorate the institution’s history and accomplishments.

Key materials include documentation of the Anniversary Gala, such as scripts, video greetings, and a commemorative DVD, as well as campus-wide and statewide celebrations, including birthday parties, Extension Service events in over 20 counties, and public commemorations. A special emphasis is placed on “Survey of Accomplishments” submitted by departments, colleges, and administrative units, highlighting milestones and achievements since SDSU was granted university status in 1964.

The collection also contains a number of commemorative items such as a replica of the Coughlin Campanile (crafted with original limestone), event buttons, party hats, branded noisemakers, and logo memorabilia. Publications such as Calling Home from SDSU, STATE alumni magazine, and a commemorative calendar further illustrate the cultural and institutional impact of the university over 125 years.

Of historical significance is a House Concurrent Resolution from the South Dakota Legislature recognizing SDSU’s contributions to the state, as well as retrospective narratives like John E. Miller’s “Reminiscences of SDSU” and a summary of the 100th Anniversary in 1981. The inclusion of taped interviews with prominent political and institutional figures, along with cable TV panel discussions, adds a rich audiovisual dimension to the record of institutional memory.

The Altrusa Records collection documents the activities of Altrusa International District Seven and the Altrusa International Club of Brookings, South Dakota, from 1956 to 2017. The materials include administrative, financial, and event records that reflect the organization’s leadership, service projects, and regional conferences. The collection contains minutes, reports, treasurer’s records, correspondence, membership lists, strategic plans, bylaws, handbooks, and administrative files. A significant portion of the collection consists of materials from annual District Seven Conferences and Presidents’ Workshops held from 1956 to 1995, including programs, reports, banquet menus, and minutes. Also included are records of local Brookings club activities such as the Literacy Lunch, Harvest and Harmony, Wild Game Dinner, Bridge Marathon, and mini-grant programs. The collection documents the organization’s community service efforts, literacy initiatives, and regional leadership development within Altrusa International.

This collection provides documentation of Altrusa International District Seven and the Brookings club’s community engagement, leadership development, and literacy advocacy efforts in the upper Midwest. It illustrates the role of a women’s service organization in promoting education, philanthropy, and civic participation from the mid-twentieth century into the early twenty-first century.

This collection primarily consists of printed materials and publications produced by the Office of the Director of the Alumni Association. Included are event programs, brochures, newsletters, flyers, mailers, and postcards related to reunions, banquets, alumni awards, and other gatherings. A significant portion of the collection is devoted to STATE: A Magazine for SDSU Alumni and Friends, Rabbit Ears, and the Jackrabbit Insider e-newsletters. Also included are alumni directories, promotional items, greeting cards, and certificates of distinction such as the Campanile Climbers Award of Merit. Photographs (Box 3) depict alumni activities and events. Notably, some material addresses institutional concerns, such as correspondence related to the possible removal of the College of Engineering from SDSU.

The Alumni Association Records documents the relationship between South Dakota State University and its alumni. The collection provides insight into alumni engagement strategies, institutional memory, and campus traditions. It is especially valuable for researchers interested in university history, the development of alumni relations, and the cultural identity of SDSU over time. Materials such as reunion memorabilia, award programs, and alumni publications preserve a strong sense of community and shared history among SDSU graduates.

This collection documents the activities and role of the American Indian Student Center at South Dakota State University primarily between 2000 and 2012. The materials reflect student life, cultural programming, outreach, and support activities sponsored or coordinated by the center. Records include audiovisual materials such as audiocassettes, microcassettes, video recordings in multiple formats, compact discs, and digital video, as well as photographs and photographic negatives. The audiovisual and photographic materials document events, meetings, seminars, ceremonies, fundraisers, trips, and collaborative activities with student organizations, including the Native American Club and Wacipi related events. Also included are a limited number of flyers, brochures, handouts, and email communications that provide contextual information about center sponsored programs and student engagement initiatives.

The American Indian Student Center Records documents Indigenous student experiences and cultural life at South Dakota State University in the early twenty first century. The collection offers evidence of the center’s role in fostering community, supporting student retention, and promoting cultural visibility through educational programs, social events, and travel experiences. These materials contribute to the historical record of Native American student services, student organizations, and cultural expression within a land grant university setting and support research on Indigenous higher education, student advocacy, and campus based cultural programming.

The Apparel Merchandising and Interior Design Records (UA 9.2) consist of departmental materials including program evaluation reports, course announcements, posters, programs, and fact sheets related to apparel merchandising activities. A significant portion of the collection documents the Adaline Snellman Hsia Historic Costume and Decorative Arts Collection, including correspondence, clippings, photographs, donor records, publicity materials, collection histories, endowment information, and exhibit materials.

This collection documents the academic programs, public engagement, and historic costume holdings of the department, highlighting its contributions to fashion education, preservation of textile history, and regional cultural exhibitions. It provides insight into the department’s role in promoting fashion scholarship and community outreach.

The Brookings Reconciliation Council Records document the activities, concerns, and advocacy efforts of the Brookings Reconciliation Council in Brookings, South Dakota, from approximately 1985 to 2006, with the bulk of the material dating from 1993 to 2003. The collection reflects the Council’s work to promote understanding, reconciliation, and improved relations between Native and non-Native communities in the region.

Materials include correspondence, meeting minutes, press releases, reports, collected publications, and conference materials addressing civil rights, education, economics, government relations, land issues, language, sovereignty, traditions, and violence affecting Native communities. The records also document public discussions and initiatives related to sports team mascots, reconciliation conferences, and community events. Additional materials highlight collaborations with organizations such as the Native American Club and Northern Plains Tribal Arts, as well as references to notable individuals and institutions. Photographs and undated resources further illustrate the Council’s outreach and educational efforts.

Together, the records provide insight into local and regional reconciliation initiatives, community dialogue, and advocacy related to Native American issues in eastern South Dakota during the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries.

This collection is composed primarily of printed materials produced by the Career Center (formerly the CAP Center) at South Dakota State University. It includes newsletters such as Career Matters Update and CAP Center Employment News, flyers for events like Career Week, job fairs, etiquette dinners, and mock interview sessions. The collection also features brochures and pamphlets on job-seeking skills, resumes, and interviewing, as well as materials related to tutoring programs, academic support, and proficiency exam help sessions. Thirty color photographs document Career Center events and activities.

These records document the role of the Career Center in preparing students for employment and academic success. They reflect the university’s commitment to career readiness through experiential learning, career counseling, and student support services. The materials provide insight into the types of services offered and the ways in which the university engaged students in professional development throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

The Nursing Records at South Dakota State University document the development, administration, academic programs, outreach, accreditation, and activities of the College of Nursing from its early years through the present. The collection includes reports, annual and biennial reviews, catalogs, newsletters, bulletins, faculty and student handbooks, and policy guidelines. It covers curriculum materials, course outlines, syllabi, and student records across various programs, including Clinical Nursing, General Nursing, Public Health Nursing, Rural Nursing, and the RN Upward Mobility Program. Accreditation files include self-studies, evaluation reports, and materials related to site visits and National League for Nursing standards. The records also contain legal agreements and contracts with clinical sites, meeting minutes from committees and faculty, research studies, surveys, grant proposals, conference proceedings, photographs, and scrapbooks documenting ceremonies, faculty, students, and alumni activities.

This collection documents nursing education at SDSU, reflecting statewide and national developments in nursing training, health care delivery, and professional standards. It provides insight into the evolution of nursing curricula, outreach to underserved and rural populations (including Native American communities), accreditation history, and faculty and student life. The records are a valuable resource for researchers studying the history of nursing education, public health initiatives, women’s education, and the university’s impact on South Dakota’s health care workforce and infrastructure.

The Continuing and Extended Education Administrative and Distance Education Records at South Dakota State University document the development, administration, and delivery of off-campus and distance learning programs from the mid-20th century into the early 21st century. The collection includes brochures, newsletters, flyers, schedules, course listings, correspondence, planning documents, conference and workshop materials, University Week for Women records, and reports. It covers a wide range of programs, from undergraduate and graduate courses to specialized workshops and conferences on topics such as agriculture, leadership, health, education, technology, and public policy. Also included are administrative materials related to scheduling, data entry, enrollment statistics, and partnerships like the Electronic University Consortium and the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance.

This collection reflects SDSU’s longstanding commitment to educational outreach, innovation in distance learning, and service to diverse student populations across South Dakota and beyond. It provides valuable insights into the evolution of continuing education, the expansion of online and hybrid learning, the university’s role in regional workforce development, and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities. Programs like University Week for Women and the Tax Update Workshops highlight the institution’s engagement with community needs and its adaptability to social and economic changes.

This collection documents the Eastern South Dakota Science and Engineering Fair (ESDSEF) and its affiliation with the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), highlighting South Dakota State University’s commitment to promoting youth involvement in STEM education. The records span multiple decades and include materials generated by fair administrators, faculty sponsors, student participants, and national science fair organizations. The collection provides a comprehensive record of the structure, planning, and execution of science fairs held at the local, regional, and international levels.

Materials include SDSU-produced programs, brochures, and informational packets for teachers and students, detailing schedules, participant guidelines, and educational outreach strategies. Judging procedures and award documentation are extensive, with files covering evaluation criteria, awards distribution, and artifacts such as first, second, and third place trophies, gold, silver, and bronze medals, and commemorative pins. Budget and planning records offer insight into event logistics, including correspondence, expense reports, and scrapbook documentation. A range of photographs and memorabilia complement these administrative files.

The collection also contains extensive documentation from ISEF, including directories of affiliated fairs, rule books, finalist packets, student forms, travel and housing instructions, and press materials. Of particular significance is the nearly uninterrupted run of published ISEF abstract books for the 26th through the 54th fairs, which preserve records of student research from across the country and internationally. Additional ISEF materials include miscellaneous brochures, judging instructions, and tour information. One program from the 65th ESDSEF and a ball cap from the 50th ISEF are also present.

While the majority of the collection focuses on science fair operations and participation, minimal information is available on Sigma Xi. The Sigma Xi content consists only of scattered planning notes and proposals, indicating a minor advisory or sponsorship role in the fair’s administration.

The collection documents SDSU’s leadership in regional STEM outreach, its connection to national science education efforts, and its long-term support of student inquiry and achievement in science. The fair records reflect evolving scientific interests among youth, institutional engagement in community education, and South Dakota’s participation in global STEM networks.

This collection documents the establishment, development, and ongoing activities of the Ethel Austin Martin Program in Human Nutrition at South Dakota State University. It includes records related to the Endowed Chair, Distinguished Lectureship, Visiting Professorship, and collected publications, as well as a substantial body of personal papers and professional materials created or compiled by Dr. Ethel Austin Martin.

The Endowed Chair records primarily relate to the creation and development of the E.A. Martin Program and its associated academic positions. These files include financial documents, progress reports, human nutrition committee records, and the formal memorandum of agreement with Dr. Martin. Also present are materials pertaining to the Basic Course in Nutrition, including syllabi, textbook selections, course materials, and research. A significant portion of these records consists of correspondence, working papers, and statements authored by Dr. Martin and university staff as they shaped the chair's role in advancing nutrition education and research.

The Distinguished Lecturer records reflect the administration of annual lectureships hosted on campus, supported by Martin’s endowment. These events featured nationally recognized experts in nutrition, each selected for their excellence in a particular area of the field. The files include materials related to lecture planning, speaker selection, publicity, programs, announcements, audio recordings, and documentation of campus and community engagement. Dr. Martin was actively involved in shaping the lecture series, and her correspondence and notes provide insight into the intellectual goals and collaborative spirit of the program.

The Visiting Professorship component represents a unique multidisciplinary initiative that brought leading scholars to SDSU for short-term residencies. Visiting professors provided lectures, led discussions, and worked closely with faculty and students across various departments. These records include program development files, planning committee materials, evaluations, publicity, audio and video recordings, and correspondence with and about visiting scholars. The structure of this program, supported by a rotating task force of faculty and the Human Nutrition Fund Committee, encouraged cross-disciplinary inquiry and contributed to broadening the scope of human nutrition research and education on campus.

The collected publications series contains journal articles, books, newsletters, and proceedings related to nutrition. Most of these materials were gathered by Dr. Martin or the program in support of the Basic Course in Nutrition. They provide context for evolving conversations in the field and reflect the intellectual foundation of the program’s educational goals.

This collection is a resource for understanding the development of nutrition as a multidisciplinary academic and applied field at South Dakota State University. Dr. Ethel Austin Martin’s visionary leadership and generous endowment supported decades of scholarly engagement, educational innovation, and public outreach in human nutrition. The records document the collaborative processes behind major academic programs and events, and preserve the legacy of a pioneering nutritionist who profoundly influenced the direction of nutrition education and research in South Dakota and beyond.

The Gamma Sigma Delta Records, South Dakota State University Chapter, document the establishment, development, and activities of the Honor Society of Agriculture at SDSU from its founding in 1958 through the late 20th century. The collection encompasses constitutions, handbooks, membership lists, banquet and conclave programs, newsletters, financial and account records, and detailed histories of the chapter and national society. Significant materials include records of national and international conclaves held at SDSU, banquet planning and programs, award documentation including the International Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award received by Dr. Oscar E. Olson, and memorabilia such as society jewelry and photographs. The collection also contains audiovisual materials, including a VHS tape highlighting the society.

These records are for research on professional agricultural fraternities, student leadership, agricultural education, and community-building in higher education. They provide insights into the recognition of academic and professional achievement in agriculture, the evolution of student organizations, and the broader role of Gamma Sigma Delta in promoting agricultural excellence.

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs of South Dakota (GFWC of SD) Records document the organizational, civic, and cultural activities of the state’s women’s club movement from the early 20th century through the late 20th century. The collection provides insight into statewide club administration, local club initiatives, civic improvement efforts, and the promotion of public service, education, arts, and women’s leadership.

The records include administrative materials such as constitutions and by-laws, directories, newsletters (The South Dakota Clubwoman), handbooks, program suggestions, publications from GFWC departments, legislative alerts, project guidelines, and conference materials. District V records are particularly robust, containing minutes, correspondence, club reports from various South Dakota communities, and membership data.

A substantial portion of the collection pertains to GFWC Brookings and the Brookings Civic League, including minutes, reports, scrapbooks, photographs, and documentation of programs such as the FREE Enterprise Program and Youth Improvement initiatives. These materials reflect community-based projects, public health and education support, and civic engagement.

The records also extensively document the Memorial Art Center Campaign, including architectural plans, correspondence, fundraising and financial records, publicity materials, and historical background. This segment captures the GFWC’s central role in establishing what became the South Dakota Art Museum on the campus of South Dakota State University.

Photographic materials span nearly 1,300 images and depict club events, members, and sponsored activities. The collection as a whole illustrates the GFWC of SD’s lasting impact on civic life, education, and cultural development across South Dakota.

This collection documents a grassroots civic organization, women’s leadership, and public service in South Dakota. It offers valuable source material for researchers studying women’s voluntary associations, local history, civic improvement movements, and the evolution of cultural institutions in the state.

The Hilton M. Briggs Library Records document the administration, operations, and development of the library at South Dakota State University. The collection includes administrative files, cataloging records, collection development files, committee minutes, financial documents, library serials records, off-campus relations, reports, publications, newsletters, photographs, policies, and materials related to circulation, interlibrary loan, reserves, acquisitions, bindery, and special events. Committee records cover groups such as the Social Committee, Publicity Committee, Collections and Connections Committee, Exhibits and Arts Committee, Staff Development Committee, University Library Committee, and Faculty and Staff Library Committees. Materials span library services, staffing, budgeting, technology initiatives, outreach, strategic planning, and special collections management.

This collection odocuments the growth and transformation of Hilton M. Briggs Library from its dedication in 1977 through subsequent decades. It reflects the library’s evolving role in supporting academic programs, research, outreach, and technology integration. The records illustrate the library’s response to campus needs, statewide collaborations, and national trends in academic librarianship, making it a valuable resource for understanding the development of higher education libraries, library administration, and information services in South Dakota.

The International Affairs Office Records document the development and management of international initiatives at South Dakota State University (SDSU). These include administrative materials, international agreements, student and faculty exchanges, faculty development seminars, study abroad programs, and collaborative projects with institutions worldwide. The collection is especially rich in documentation concerning three primary university partners: Manchester Metropolitan University (England), Chungnam National University (South Korea), and Yunnan Normal University (China). Additionally, it includes extensive material on global collaborations spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Oceania.

The records consist of administrative records and documentation of SDSU’s international activities from the late 1980s onward. The collection is organized into several series, with a significant focus on SDSU’s partnerships with three international institutions: Manchester Metropolitan University, Chungnam National University, and Yunnan Normal University.

Administrative records include reports, newsletters, correspondence, clippings, and documents related to strategic planning, program funding, internationalization initiatives, and internal committees. This series reflects the university's evolving efforts to globalize curricula, foster faculty engagement in international education, and support international students and visiting scholars.

The collection’s core consists of records related to study abroad and faculty exchange programs. These include agreements, planning documents, photographs, correspondence, reports, and faculty reflections. Files relating to Manchester Metropolitan University document health and pharmacy exchange programs, official visits, and collaborative seminars. Material from Chungnam and Yunnan includes detailed accounts of exchange experiences, seminar documentation, and memorabilia.

A final component comprises materials from SDSU's international engagement with over 30 countries and regions, including agreements, institutional visits, travel itineraries, student and faculty reports, and special programs. Subjects covered range from agricultural development and educational reform to language immersion and cultural exchange.

This collection is a vital resource for understanding SDSU’s internationalization efforts over several decades. It offers a comprehensive view of how academic institutions build global partnerships, support cultural exchange, and integrate international perspectives into higher education. The depth and breadth of documentation highlight SDSU’s commitment to fostering global citizenship and cross-cultural collaboration. The collection is also historically significant in illustrating changing global academic trends, regional partnerships, and U.S. international education policy at the institutional level.

The Jackrabbit Athletics Records document the history, administration, and activities of South Dakota State University's athletics programs. The materials cover a wide range of sports and administrative functions from the early years of athletic participation to the university's transition to NCAA Division I status.

The collection includes administrative files related to academic advising, compliance, development, equipment, facilities, marketing and promotion, operations, the Jackrabbit Sports Network, and the ticket office. These are represented through annual reports, brochures, event programs, handbooks, newsletters, photographs, mascot design materials, and promotional mailers. Physical artifacts include banners, jerseys, t-shirts, and caps.

Records of the Athletics Committee consist of extensive meeting minutes and budget files. These documents provide insight into the financial and policy decisions guiding SDSU athletics.

Sport-specific files include materials on baseball, men's and women's basketball, cross country, equestrian, football, gymnastics, rodeo, soccer, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling. These records contain media guides, fact books, programs, clippings, record books, and photographs. Cross country and track and field are especially well represented, with detailed documentation of results, workout plans, training strategies, and performance research.

The publications series features long-running serials such as the Rabbit Report (1978 to 2014) and The Bum (1956 to 2017). While incomplete, these publications offer a chronological narrative of SDSU athletics, including coverage of team performance, individual athletes, and university sports culture.

Other notable contents include materials related to special events such as the Beef Bowl, Festival of Champions, Jackrabbit Stampede Rodeo, and Jackrabbit Jamboree. There are also records documenting strategic planning for the transition to Division I, including the Division I Study and related correspondence.

The collection also reflects broader aspects of campus athletics, such as intramural sports, recreational programming, student wellness, and athlete recognition.

This collection provides a view of the development of collegiate athletics at South Dakota State University. It is a valuable resource for researchers studying the history of intercollegiate sports, athletic program administration, the student-athlete experience, gender in sports, sports marketing, and the evolution of athletics at land-grant institutions.

The collection is composed of material collected by the Phi Upsilon Omicron Phi Chapters at South Dakota State University. Included are correspondence, minutes, newsletters, annual reports, scrapbooks, member lists, financial information, publications, clippings, meeting minutes and agendas, and photographs.

Also included is "The Candle," the Phi Upsilon Omicron National Honor Society journal, covering the years 1930-2004, annual reports submitted to the national headquarters, Initiate information sheets, detailed ledger sheets starting in 1934, hand-made chapter programs, very creative from 1937 to about 1980, senior biographies from 1952-1971 which are very detailed and include photographs, and detailed secretaries notebooks.

The scrapbooks consist of photographs, cards, significant correspondence and programs for events held by the chapter. Some items of note include a Coat of Arms patch for Phi Upsilon Omicron, a Holy Bible presented to the chapter by Laura J. McArthur in December 1941, and a material related to a Fruitcake Fundraising project which includes photographs, but the fruitcake recipe could not be found.

The photographs are not well described; however, most are group shots of members.

This collection consists of administrative, exhibition, and support organization records for the South Dakota Art Museum from its founding through the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The materials document the museum’s internal operations, public programming, physical development, and community engagement, particularly under the leadership of founding director Joseph M. Stuart and subsequent administrators.

Director’s records include materials related to the planning, construction, and expansion of the museum building, including architectural plans, specifications, fundraising materials, and correspondence surrounding the original facility (dedicated in 1970) and later additions in the 1990s. Fundraising records primarily document the Visions for the Future campaign and include profiles, strategies, correspondence, and Board of Trustees involvement. Financial documents include operating budgets, accounting reports, museum shop inventories, and grant records.

Exhibition records constitute a major portion of the collection and comprehensively document the planning and execution of exhibitions from 1970 through the early 2000s. Included are exhibition catalogues, promotional materials, artist correspondence, insurance and shipping documents, photographs, slides, press clippings, and exhibition planning documents such as object labels and installation instructions. The exhibitions span a wide range of themes, styles, and artists, including both national and international figures, as well as a strong focus on South Dakota artists and Native American art. Highlights include recurring biennials, traveling exhibitions, and retrospectives of significant regional artists such as Harvey Dunn and Oscar Howe.

Board of Trustees records include meeting agendas and minutes, member biographies, correspondence, reports, committee files, by-laws, ethics policies, and orientation materials. These materials document the museum’s governance and strategic planning over several decades.

The Guild records reflect the activities of the South Dakota Art Museum Guild and include by-laws, handbooks, training materials for docents, correspondence, promotional documents, and event planning records. These materials emphasize the Guild's volunteer and educational role in museum outreach and support.

Other materials include accreditation documentation submitted to the American Association of Museums, annual reports, publications, event planning files, and materials related to special initiatives and commemorative events. The collection also includes significant documentation on the museum’s permanent collections, particularly works by Harvey Dunn, Oscar Howe, and the Marghab Linen Collection.

This collection offers documentation of the development, programming, and administration of the South Dakota Art Museum, the first museum in South Dakota to receive accreditation from the American Association of Museums. It illustrates the museum’s growth from a state-supported regional institution to a key center for visual arts in the Northern Plains. The records reveal the museum's emphasis on South Dakota’s artistic heritage, particularly through its stewardship of landmark collections and support of Native American and regional artists. The materials also highlight the museum’s role in public education and cultural outreach through exhibitions, publications, events, and docent programs.

These records document the governance and organization of women’s intercollegiate athletics in South Dakota. Administrative materials include affidavits of eligibility, handbooks, certificates, correspondence, financial statements, and meeting minutes that record decision-making processes and coordination with the national Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women. Event and competition materials include programs and results for basketball, volleyball, and track and field meets, along with documentation for Region 6 tournaments and Division I championships. Photographs, primarily of women’s basketball teams and activities, provide visual documentation of athletic participation during this period. Additional files from the South Dakota Athletic and Recreation Federation of College Women contribute context for statewide athletic governance and institutional engagement.

The records document the development and administration of women’s collegiate athletics during the period surrounding the implementation of Title IX and the transition from AIAW to NCAA oversight. They provide evidence of eligibility practices, governance structures, and competitive opportunities for female student athletes in South Dakota, as well as the relationship between state, regional, and national athletic organizations.

The South Dakota Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (SDAFCS) Records document the evolution of home economics and family and consumer sciences organizations at both the state and national levels. The collection spans from 1913 to 2008 and includes records from predecessor organizations such as the National Association of Extension Home Economists, the South Dakota Home Demonstration Agents Association, the South Dakota Home Economics Association, and the South Dakota Association of Extension Home Economists. Materials include meeting minutes, officer handbooks, annual conference programs, newsletters, reports, correspondence, scrapbooks, constitutions and bylaws, financial records, award documentation, and photographs.

The records trace the activities and organizational changes of home economics professionals, including local and national conference proceedings, program development, and educational initiatives. The earliest materials document the formation of the South Dakota Home Demonstration Agents Association and its leadership, while later records highlight the organization’s transition through multiple name changes, reflecting shifts in the professional scope of family and consumer sciences. Of particular note are correspondence files related to early officers such as Eva Dawes, as well as detailed meeting and committee records from the South Dakota Association of Extension Home Economists, which illustrate the structure and governance of the association from the 1940s through the 1990s.

The collection also contains materials related to professional development and recognition, such as award programs, scholarship information, and membership records. Scrapbooks and photographs document conferences, special events, and member activities. Conference materials and strategic plans from the 1990s and 2000s illustrate the association’s continued focus on leadership, education, and public engagement in family and consumer sciences.

These records document the professionalization and history of home economics in South Dakota, the expansion of educational outreach through the Cooperative Extension Service, and the development of the family and consumer sciences discipline nationally. They provide valuable insight into the leadership, governance, and community service of South Dakota educators, particularly women, who advanced the field through teaching, extension work, and organizational involvement.

This collection documents the organizational history and activities of the South Dakota Crop Improvement Association (SDCIA), which was established in 1906 to improve crop cultivation and seed quality in South Dakota. The records span administrative, promotional, and programmatic functions, including extensive documentation of annual meetings, crop shows, and Board of Directors meetings. Committee files—such as those from the Certification, Legislative, and Price Committees—demonstrate the association’s role in shaping seed certification standards and agricultural policy.

Materials include minutes, correspondence, financial reports, membership records, newsletters, reports on certified seed acreage, and documents related to seed testing and varietal development. Photographs depict field days, crop shows, awards, equipment, and promotional displays. Also present are examples of certified seed sacks bearing the slogan “The Emblem of Good Seeds.” The collection is significant for its detailed documentation of agricultural improvement efforts, certified seed promotion, and rural organizational development in South Dakota.

The South Dakota Dairy Association records document its role in shaping the state's dairy industry from the early 1900s to the early 2000s. This collection includes ledgers, administrative materials, financial records, and publications that provide insight into the association's governance, advocacy, and industry impact. Annual reports, meeting minutes, and convention programs spanning a century highlight efforts to promote dairy farming practices, support producers, and establish industry standards.

Significant materials include governance documents such as the association's constitution, amendments, and certificate of incorporation, as well as financial records detailing operations and contests. Convention programs from 1911 to 1999, along with reports on industry regulations, illustrate the association's efforts to foster professional development and policy discussions. The collection also includes medals, photographs, and newspaper clippings, offering a connection to the association's legacy.

These materials provide context for understanding the evolution of South Dakota's dairy industry, reflecting broader agricultural trends, economic contributions, and the collaborative efforts that shaped the state's dairy sector.

The South Dakota Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family, and Community Records document the history and recognition of individuals honored as Eminent Farmers and Homemakers in South Dakota from 1927 through the early 2000s. The collection comprises photographs, citations, scrapbooks, banquet and planning materials, and other administrative documents, reflecting the significance of these awards and their institutional history, particularly at South Dakota State University.

The honoree photographs span 1927–1991 and were formerly displayed on the Wall of Fame in Agricultural Hall at SDSU. These portraits, largely measuring 14.5 x 18 inches, include names, years honored, locations, and occasionally occupation or area of interest for farmers. Homemaker identifications typically follow the convention “Mrs. [Husband's Name],” with given names rarely appearing until the late 1980s. Due to light exposure, many photographs were damaged and later removed for preservation. Accompanying negatives (mostly 4x5") created between 1960–1991 document the original captions.

Citations provide biographical information, household or farm management practices, and details on public service and community leadership. Early entries frequently include homesteading stories and narratives of frontier life. Some citations contain transcripts of banquet acceptance speeches. These are arranged alphabetically by honoree.

Three scrapbooks document different time ranges. Scrapbook I (1928–1969) contains business meeting reports, newsletters, correspondence, and obituary clippings. Scrapbook II, titled Sands of Time, spans 1952–1982 and features photographs, minutes (1965–1982), and necrology reports. Scrapbook III, titled History, 1972–1988, includes honoree biographies, event programs, a mailing list of Master Farm Homemakers, and death listings.

Additional materials include banquet and award planning files, correspondence, application forms, minutes, obituaries, draft programs, event themes, and donation and endowment records. Recognition programs, trees planted in honor of recipients, and a map of honorees' geographic distribution further contextualize the impact of the awards. Printers' blocks of honoree portraits and documentation on portrait frames are also present.

This collection offers a unique lens into South Dakota’s agricultural heritage, community values, and gender norms over much of the 20th century. It preserves the legacy of individuals recognized for their contributions to rural leadership, family life, and agricultural advancement, and reflects the ceremonial and institutional practices surrounding their recognition. As a record of statewide honorific traditions and their evolution, the collection is significant to researchers of agricultural history, gender roles in rural communities, South Dakota social history, and commemorative culture.

The South Dakota Farmers Union Records provide a comprehensive account of the organization's history, advocacy, and role in shaping agricultural policy from the early 20th century to the early 2000s. The collection documents the Union's efforts to support family farmers, promote cooperative enterprises, and influence state and national agricultural legislation. Materials include organizational records, correspondence, meeting minutes, financial statements, educational materials, photographs, audiovisual recordings, and publications.

A significant portion of the collection pertains to the Union's legislative and political engagement, featuring records from state and national conventions, speeches, campaign materials, and lobbying efforts. These materials illustrate the Union's role in advocating agricultural policy reforms, rural economic development, and cooperative business models. Key figures such as Ben Radcliffe, George McGovern, Hubert Humphrey, and Eleanor Roosevelt are represented in convention proceedings, recorded speeches, and radio broadcasts. The 1972 Supreme Court case on public school funding through property tax is also documented through clippings, correspondence, and legal evidence.

The audiovisual materials consist of 13 audiocassettes, 156 open reel tapes, 6 wire recordings, and 34 16mm motion picture films, spanning from 1948 to 1992. These recordings capture state and national conventions, radio programs, speeches, and advertisements, along with footage of state camp activities, tours, picnics, and parades. Many of the materials promote legislative initiatives and endorse political candidates. In 2018, the South Dakota Farmers Union audiovisual collection was digitized with the support of a Recordings at Risk grant from the Council on Library and Information Resources. Due to the fragile state of many recordings, the Archives partnered with George Blood L.P. to ensure high-quality digital preservation in sustainable formats.

The Cooperative Legacy Project, spearheaded by Chuck Groth, communications director for the South Dakota Farmers Union from 1972 to 2008, provides an in-depth oral history of the cooperative movement in South Dakota. This project includes over 110 hours of digital audio interviews with Farmers Union members, cooperative managers, and farm organization leaders. The interviews, recorded in MP3 and WAV formats, are supplemented by documents, scanned photographs, and rough transcriptions, offering insight into the history and impact of the cooperative movement.

The collection also includes publications from the National Farmers Union and various state organizations, as well as South Dakota Farmers Union-produced materials such as convention programs (1938-1983), policy statements (1954-1988), handbooks, and brochures. The photographic collection, comprising over 33,000 photographs and negatives, documents youth programs, conventions, picnics, tours, and key moments in the organization's history, as well as images published in the South Dakota Union Farmer.

Records from local unions throughout South Dakota provide insight into grassroots organizing efforts, consisting of charter records, attendance logs, minutes, and correspondence, with some materials accompanied by photographs. This material includes essential governance documents such as constitutions, by-laws, speeches, scrapbooks, and advertising materials, with Farmers Union annual convention minutes spanning from 1926 to 1946.

This collection serves as an resource for researchers studying agricultural policy, rural advocacy, cooperative movements, and the political and economic history of farming in South Dakota and the United States. Through its extensive documentation of legislative efforts, community programs, and cooperative business models, the South Dakota Farmers Union Records provide a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of American agriculture.

The South Dakota Humanities Council Records document the administrative, financial, and programmatic history of the organization from its founding as the South Dakota Committee on the Humanities through the early twenty-first century. The records illustrate the Council’s mission to promote public engagement with the humanities, support community-based programs, and manage federally funded initiatives in partnership with the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).

Materials include administrative correspondence, meeting files, financial records, grant proposals, publications, program documentation, and audiovisual materials. Correspondence features communications with Council members, partner institutions, public officials—including Governors George S. Mickelson and William J. Janklow—and representatives of the NEH. Meeting records document the activities of the Council, Executive Committee, Membership Committee, and Program Committee, with sessions held across the state in cities such as Pierre, Sioux Falls, Chamberlain, Mitchell, Rapid City, and Aberdeen.

Financial records form a substantial portion of the collection and include audits, ledgers, balance sheets, vouchers, receipts, and statements of receipts and disbursements. These materials document the Council’s fiscal management, including re-grant activity, Reading Series and Resource Center expenditures, and accounting for the affiliated South Dakota Humanities Foundation. Audit reports and NEH compliance plans demonstrate adherence to federal and state grant requirements.

Grant and project files comprise a major component of the collection, containing proposals, applications, reports, correspondence, fiscal records, and publicity materials. Topics represented include Native American language and cultural preservation, South Dakota history, literature, women’s studies, rural depopulation, arts, and media. Projects include “Lakota Language Project,” “Lost Bird of Wounded Knee,” “Living Roots of Music,” “Oscar Micheaux Film Festival,” “Barn Again!,” “Choices for the 21st Century,” “Vietnam War: A Season of Remembrance,” “Yesterday’s Tomorrows,” “Staking a Claim: The People, Places, and Stories of Mining in the Black Hills,” and “Text, Discourse, Grammar: A Summer Institute for Lakota Language Teachers.”

Program files document the Speakers Bureau, Reading Series, Chautauqua, and other statewide initiatives. These include funded and rejected proposals, correspondence, scholar and coordinator packets, study guides, evaluation forms, and promotional materials illustrating the Council’s efforts to expand public access to the humanities. Later program records include files for Prime Time Family Reading, Key Ingredients, Farm and Ranch Stories, Between Fences, We the People, One Book South Dakota, The Big Read, and the South Dakota Festival of Books. Publications such as The Human Adventure, What’s Up, Perspectives on South Dakota, Report to the People, and the South Dakota Humanities Council Newsletter document Council outreach, publicity, and communication with the public.

The collection also includes audiovisual and photographic materials depicting Council programs, community events, and participants from approximately 1980 through 2005. These visual records provide evidence of public engagement through lectures, exhibits, and cultural festivals sponsored by the Council.

This collection offers a comprehensive record of the South Dakota Humanities Council’s growth from a state committee to a central public humanities organization. It reflects the Council’s collaboration with the National Endowment for the Humanities, its role in administering grant funds, and its leadership in advancing humanities programming throughout South Dakota. The materials document the Council’s influence in promoting cultural preservation, education, and civic dialogue, particularly within rural and Native American communities, and serve as an essential resource for studying the development and impact

The South Dakota Nurses’ Association Records document the activities, governance, and advocacy efforts of the state’s principal professional nursing organization from the early 20th century through the late 1990s. The collection includes extensive materials from SDNA committees, task forces, board meetings, conventions, and district branches. Committee and task force files contain meeting minutes, correspondence, surveys, reports, and materials related to ongoing projects, reflecting the association’s focus on education, practice standards, health care policy, and labor conditions. Of particular note are the Economic and General Welfare Committee and SDNA’s Continuing Education Approval and Recognition Program (SD-CEARP), which offer insight into labor advocacy and professional development in South Dakota nursing.

The collection features broad correspondence from SDNA leadership, including the board of directors and district presidents, as well as communication with state agencies, legislators, and national nursing organizations. Reports include annual summaries from committees and districts, financial audits, and documentation of major initiatives such as Project Motion and the Economic Security Program. Membership materials track recruitment, retention, and survey results across districts. Extensive district-level documentation includes bylaws, officer lists, newsletters, and reports.

Other highlights include material from SDNA’s annual conventions, National Nurses Day celebrations, and Nurses Day at the Legislature, along with lobbying files detailing the association’s legislative priorities and partnerships. Project files document SDNA’s participation in state and national efforts, including public health outreach and the Vietnam Women’s Memorial. Scrapbooks, photographs, clippings, and audiovisual materials preserve the visual history of nursing in South Dakota.

Collected publications cover a wide range of nursing-related topics, including continuing education, standards of practice, nursing history, and health care legislation. The collection also holds records from affiliated organizations such as the American Nurses Association, South Dakota Board of Nursing, South Dakota League for Nursing Education, and other health-related groups. Physical artifacts, including uniforms, caps, and commemorative items, offer tangible connections to the nursing profession’s heritage in the state.

This collection offers insight into the evolution of nursing in South Dakota. It serves as a vital resource for studying professional development, health care advocacy, women’s leadership, public health policy, and the organizational history of nursing. The records document how South Dakota’s nurses helped shape statewide standards, responded to national trends, and promoted both education and workplace rights in a changing medical landscape.

The South Dakota Resources Coalition consists of administrative material and subject files. The administrative material consists of meeting minutes, committee files, correspondence, financial and membership records and publications. The subject files consist of research SDRC has performed throughout the years, mainly to assist them in their lobbying efforts. The subjects deal mainly with environmental issues as they relate to South Dakota.

The South Dakota State Climate Office Records document over a century of weather and climate data collection across South Dakota and parts of Iowa, Minnesota, and Wyoming. The bulk of the collection consists of daily weather observation sheets submitted by volunteer reporting stations, recording data such as precipitation, air and soil temperature, wind, and solar radiation. The detail and scope of observations vary based on the equipment available at each site. Materials are organized geographically by reporting location, including towns, research farms, and natural landmarks.

In addition to climatological data, the collection includes administrative and research materials such as master’s theses, grant proposals, legal case documentation involving weather data, radar output, storm and cloud photography, and drought and tree ring analysis. Specialized forms, including B-91 climatological reports, are also present, along with materials relating to significant weather events such as flooding and droughts.

This collection offers insight into long-term regional climate trends. It is a valuable resource for environmental research, agricultural planning, legal reference, public safety, and historical climatology.

This collection documents the activities and literary contributions of the South Dakota State Poetry Society (SDSPS). Materials include foundational records such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, board meeting minutes, and correspondence, including letters from board member Deb Gangloff. Additional content consists of newsletters, flyers, photographs, and poetry writing tips by Audrae Visser and Susan Chambers.

The collection features publications by the SDSPS, including multiple editions of Four Quarters to a Section, Prairie Poets, Voices of South Dakota, and indexes such as the Sixty-Year Comprehensive Index of Pasque Petals. Numerous works by South Dakota poets are represented, including chapbooks, anthologies, and contest-winning pieces. A substantial portion comprises issues of Pasque Petals, the society’s official journal. Also included is the 2015 Poet Laureate nomination for Lee Ann Roripaugh.

The records reflect the evolution of poetry and literary engagement in South Dakota, highlighting the society’s role in fostering a statewide community of poets. Through its extensive publications and support of local voices, the SDSPS has served as a cornerstone of the region’s literary culture.

The South Dakota Water Resources Institute Records consist of departmental publications, reports, administrative materials, and collected research related to water quality, irrigation, and resource management. Materials include annual reports, operating budget documentation, informational pamphlets, and photographic records. A significant portion of the collection pertains to the Missouri River Basin Project, encompassing a wide range of technical reports, feasibility studies, environmental impact statements, and planning documents. These reports address critical issues such as irrigation development, water quality standards, aquifer management, flood control, channel degradation, hydrology, and the economic and environmental implications of water resource use.

This collection documents the Institute’s role in advancing water research and policy in South Dakota and the broader Missouri River Basin region. The records reflect federal-state collaboration under programs like the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program and include contributions to state and national discussions on sustainable water use, agricultural irrigation, and environmental protection. The depth and breadth of the Missouri River Basin Project materials provide valuable insights into mid- to late-20th century water management initiatives and the scientific, economic, and political challenges surrounding them. Researchers interested in water resource development, environmental policy, agricultural engineering, and regional planning will find the collection especially valuable.

This collection comprises publications and records produced by the Office of Student Activities at South Dakota State University. It includes handbooks, pamphlets, calendars, flyers, correspondence, directories, and photographs documenting student life, organizations, and services. Materials cover areas such as new student orientation, cultural programming, student enrichment, minority student support, university events (e.g., Freshmen Days, Parents Day), and administrative functions like central reservations and the information exchange. Visual materials depict student organizations and campus events.

The collection offers insight into student engagement, campus culture, and organizational development over time. It reflects the evolving role of student affairs in promoting inclusion, leadership, and community, and serves as a valuable resource for understanding the student experience at SDSU.

The Women Artists in Collaboration Records document the activities and creative work of the group, primarily through materials collected by co-founder Marilyn Richardson. The collection consists of correspondence (1986-1990), financial records (1987-1990), and project materials (1985-1989), which provide insight into the group's operations and artistic collaborations. The project records are particularly significant as they detail performance concepts and the collaborative process.

Additionally, the collection includes clippings, guest books (1987), meeting records (1986-1987), member biographies, and programs, offering context on the group's membership and events. Two scrapbooks (1985-1987, 1988) contain photographs and memorabilia, documenting performances, and the group's artistic impact. This collection highlights the group's creative contributions and organizational history.