Showing 327 results

Finding Aid
SDSU-Archives MA 002 · Records · 1908-1928

Composed of miscellanies from both the era of the Forum and the time of the Ethical Culture Club. Materials from the latter era consist of the record of meetings from the years 1908-1910. Material for the latter years includes the minutes of meetings, a copy of the constitution, some miscellaneous materials and a history of the club written by William Powers.

Ethical Culture Club (Brookings, S.D.)
SDSU-Archives MA 006 · Papers · 1898-1975

This collection includes materials related to the personal and professional lives of Elmer and Cecile Sexauer, such as postcards, diaries, scrapbooks, and essays written by Cecile during her college years. It also contains items like agricultural reports presented to Elmer, certificates from their 50th college reunion, and various family papers. Travel diaries and over 400 postcards document their trips across the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Canada, and Japan.

The collection offers valuable insight into the lives of Elmer and Cecile Sexauer, highlighting their family history, travels, and involvement in organizations like the Grain and Feed Dealers National Association. It serves as an important resource for understanding their personal experiences and social networks in the early 20th century.

The general material consists mainly of essays written by Cecile Welch Sexauer during her college career. Also included is a Christmas card list of the Sexauer's for 1971, scrapbooks containing newspaper clippings, a book of Agricultural Department Reports presented to Elmer Sexauer in 1947, and certificates presented to the Sexauer's on the anniversary of their 50th college reunion. Some examples of their personal stationery, grade school papers from Elmer's youth, and a language paper of Laura Sexauer, Elmer's sister are also included.

A scrapbook of Elizabeth Anne Baker, age 9 weeks, chronicles her first visit to her grandparents’ home during Easter 1947. It was prepared by Jeannette Gagnon-Abbey for the Sexauer's.

The scrapbook was presented to Elmer Sexauer by the Grain and Feed Dealers National Association as a permanent reminder of the Forty-fourth Annual Convention held at Louisville, Kentucky October 13-15, 1940. Elmer was president of the Association at that time.
The postcards are composed of postcards from the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean that the Sexauer’s collected on their travels. There are over 400 postcards in this collection.

The Travels series consists of travel diaries hand-written by Cecile Sexauer. These diaries contain information about where the Sexauer's traveled and the customs, history and items of interest of these places. Some of the places the Sexauer's traveled to Europe, Canada, and Japan. Also included is a souvenir book of the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship.

Sexauer, Elmer, 1888-1986
SDSU-Archives MA 015 · Records · 1935-2007, undated

This collection documents the activities and governance of the American Association of University Women, Brookings Branch, offering valuable insight into the organization's role in promoting education, women's rights, and community engagement. It includes reports, minutes, newsletters, programs, bylaws, and correspondence, though no series is complete.

The collection provides documents related to the branch's administrative functions, including annual reports, bylaws, financial and fundraising activities, and meeting minutes from both regular and executive board sessions. These records highlight the decision-making processes, organizational priorities, and project initiatives undertaken by members. Membership lists and reports on various projects further illustrate the group's impact on local and national issues.

Of particular significance is the documentation on accreditation efforts, project initiatives, and study groups, which reflect the branch's commitment to education and social advocacy. The history of the Brookings Branch contains valuable narratives on its founding and key figures, including Vivian Volstorff, who played a crucial role in the branch's accreditation, and Gertrude Stickney Young, its first president. The collection also includes correspondence, news clippings, and a scrapbook that was dismantled for preservation purposes, offering researchers insight into the branch's evolving role in civic engagement.

Newsletters and event programs further illustrate the organization's outreach efforts and evolving priorities over time. Fundraising records, member surveys, and policy documents provide context for the branch's financial and strategic decision-making. Photographs, brochures, and promotional materials add a visual dimension to the collection, offering a deeper understanding of the group's public presence.

This collection is a valuable resource for researchers studying women's organizations, grassroots activism, and local history. It sheds light on the Brookings Branch's contributions to educational initiatives, legislative advocacy, and broader societal issues, making it an essential reference for those examining the intersection of gender, education, and civic engagement.

American Association of University Women. Brookings Branch
SDSU-Archives MA 017 · Records · 1970-2017

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

South Dakota Humanities Council
SDSU-Archives MA 026 · Records · 1914-1995

This collection documents the activities and organizational structure of the South Dakota Farm Bureau, with records spanning local county extension reports, internal committee operations, marketing initiatives, and administrative governance. The materials reflect the Bureau's efforts to support and advocate for South Dakota’s agricultural communities through coordinated programming, policy development, and member engagement.

Included are annual and narrative reports from county extension agents in Brookings, Codington, and Hamlin Counties, which illustrate localized outreach and education efforts in collaboration with the Farm Bureau. Federation Records comprise a significant portion of the collection and include documentation from various standing and ad hoc committees—such as the Executive Committee, Women’s Committee, Marketing Committee, and Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee—highlighting the Bureau’s focus on leadership development, legislative advocacy, and agricultural promotion. Bylaws, financial reports, meeting minutes, clippings, and historical narratives provide additional context for the organization’s governance and evolution. Records from affiliated entities such as the Mutual Insurance Company and a Service Company further illustrate the Bureau’s broader cooperative and service functions.

This collection offers valuable insight into the history, priorities, and grassroots organization of the South Dakota Farm Bureau and its role in shaping agricultural policy and community development in the state.

South Dakota Farm Bureau
SDSU-Archives MA 028 · Records · 1912-2000

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.

General Federation of Women's Clubs of South Dakota
SDSU-Archives MA 031 · Records · 1920-1999

The records document the activities, administration, and history of the Brookings Rotary Club from 1920 to 1999. Materials include foundational documents such as the 1920 charter, by-laws, and constitution; correspondence, committee reports, and assignments from the 1960s through the 1990s; district conference planning and reports to the District Governor spanning 1957–1999; and membership directories from 1943–1999. The collection also contains certificates, awards, attendance records, banquet programs, president’s plans, and a book project. Extensive newsletters titled Rotary Cog date from 1920–1998, along with clippings, photographs, and a club history compiled between 1955 and 1995. Additional materials include a songbook, records of Rotary Foundation scholarship activity, and summaries of club plans and objectives.

The collection provides documentation of the Brookings Rotary Club’s organizational development, community involvement, and participation in Rotary International programs over nearly eight decades. It reflects local leadership, service initiatives, and the continuity of civic engagement in Brookings, South Dakota.

Brookings Rotary Club (Brookings, S.D.)
SDSU-Archives MA 034 · Collection · 1937-1949

The Edwin C. Graber Poetry Collection consists of chapbooks containing original poetry written between 1937 and 1949, with several undated works. The poems explore themes of nature, solitude, time, and spirituality through lyrical and reflective language. Titles such as Stars Are My Parade, Nature the Peerless Colorist, and Zeniths as Yet But Dimly Seen illustrate Graber’s focus on the natural world and metaphysical contemplation.

The collection documents the creative work of South Dakota poet Edwin C. Graber and preserves his limited-edition chapbooks, many of which are not widely available. It provides material for the study of mid-twentieth-century regional poetry and poetic expression rooted in the Great Plains.

Graber, Edwin C.
SDSU-Archives MA 030 · Records · 1899-2000

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.

South Dakota Nurses' Association
SDSU-Archives MA 045 · Records · 1936-1978

The South Dakota Social Science Association Records document the organization’s annual meetings from the late 1930s through the 1970s. The collection includes correspondence, clippings, programs, meeting minutes, treasurer’s reports, abstracts, publications, and planning materials related to the coordination of these events. Notably, materials detail speaker arrangements, conference themes, and academic presentations.

Each annual meeting was hosted at a different college or university in South Dakota and focused on timely regional and national topics in the social sciences, such as population change, state governance, education, Native American issues, natural resource development, and mental health. Folder contents typically note the meeting’s date, location, and discussion themes.

This collection documents statewide academic collaboration and for highlighting the evolving role of social sciences in addressing public policy and educational challenges in South Dakota.

South Dakota Social Science Association
SDSU-Archives MA 048 · Papers · 1942-2010

The Lonita Gustad Corothers Papers consist primarily of personal diaries kept from 1945 through 2010, along with related writings, correspondence, poetry, and reflections. The collection is centered around Corothers' detailed diary entries, beginning in August 1945 and continuing through June 2010, documenting daily life, personal relationships, family matters, and religious reflections. Of particular note are descriptions of her experiences as a pharmacy student at South Dakota State College from 1946 to 1950, and early entries reflecting on the aftermath of World War II.

Accompanying the diaries are seven timeline index notebooks compiled by Corothers, which summarize entries and highlight significant life events through starred notations. Additional series include excerpted diary passages arranged by theme (e.g., courtship, marriage, family life), typed or printed transcriptions with later comments by the author, and copied alphabetical diary volumes for easier reference.

The collection also includes correspondence between Lonita and her future husband, Tom Corothers, dating from 1949 to 1964, primarily during their courtship and early marriage. A grief notebook written following Tom’s death reflects on their relationship and her experience of loss.

Corothers’ literary output is represented in five poetry binders compiled in 2003, categorized by topic (Nature and Faith; Love, Anger, Humor; Death and Grief; Philosophy; Age and Miscellaneous), as well as multiple poetry notebooks and untitled drafts. Additional writings include prose, meditations, and reflections, many handwritten or typed on scrap paper such as envelopes, grocery lists, or church bulletins, often undated and unordered.

Together, the materials offer a deeply personal and extensive life record, rich in autobiographical detail and reflective commentary spanning over six decades.

Corothers, Lonita Gustad
SDSU-Archives MA 049 · Collection · 1884-2000

The David Richards Collection on N.E. Hansen documents the extensive horticultural work and plant exploration of Niels Ebbesen Hansen (1866–1950), a pioneering plant breeder and professor of horticulture at South Dakota State College. Hansen was known for introducing hardy fruits, ornamental plants, and forage crops suitable for the Northern Great Plains. David Richards, a long-time admirer of Hansen, frequently visited him in his office. Following Hansen’s death in 1950, Richards received permission to preserve several items and salvaged numerous documents otherwise destined for disposal. These materials form the basis of this archival collection.

The collection includes Hansen’s bulletins and circulars for the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station, manuscripts and article drafts containing his handwritten notes and corrections, and correspondence with colleagues, friends, and customers interested in plant orders. Also present are catalog descriptions prepared for seed catalogs, transplanting cards documenting the propagation of hybrids, and research reports to the Agricultural Experiment Station and South Dakota State Horticultural Society. Additional materials include clippings, photographs, collected Russian publications, travel notes, international journals, seed catalogs, and multiple volumes of Seeds and Plants Imported from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Subjects covered in Hansen’s writings span apples, crabapples, apricots, cherries, currants, grapes, pears, plums, roses, alfalfa, trees, and topics in plant genetics and breeding.

Richards, David
Audrae Visser Collection
SDSU-Archives MA 052 · Collection · 1938-2002

The materials in this collection were collected and donated by Dr. Charles Woodard of the South Dakota State University English Department. The collection is primarily composed of correspondence between Audrae Visser and Dr. Woodard, much of which documents her literary development and academic work. Included are many of Visser’s writings created to fulfill class assignments, such as book reports, instructional texts, and a Pioneer Humor Project undertaken for the Heritage of the Prairies Institute at Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota.

In addition to extensive correspondence, the collection contains clippings, photographs, and a wide range of poetic and prose writings by Visser. These include autobiographical sketches, children's stories, fiction, speeches, and both published and unpublished poetry. Notable published works represented are Country Cousin, Honyocker Stories, Pheasant Flights, and Prairie Poetry. Also included are materials related to her awards, honors, and organizational memberships, as well as written accounts of her travel experiences and photographs she took on various trips, including one to Mexico. Writings by other authors and anonymous works are also present.

Visser, Audrae 1919-2001
SDSU-Archives MA 053 · Papers · 1914-2014

The E.S. McFadden Papers document the career, research, and legacy of Edgar Sharp McFadden (1891–1956), a pioneering American plant breeder best known for developing Hope Wheat, the first variety resistant to stem rust. McFadden’s work in genetics and agronomy spanned South Dakota and Texas, and he contributed significantly to agricultural science through federal and academic research programs, including with the USDA and Texas A&M.

The collection spans McFadden’s professional life and includes research notebooks, writings, correspondence, photographs, honors, and biographical materials. Of particular note are research materials related to wheat breeding and rust resistance, including field data, experimental notes, and correspondence concerning Hope Wheat. Writings include published and unpublished scientific and popular articles, speeches, and autobiographical pieces. Also included are awards and certificates from scientific societies, clippings about McFadden’s achievements, and documentation of public recognition such as “McFadden Appreciation Day.” The papers provide insight into 20th-century advancements in crop improvement and agricultural science in the United States.

McFadden, E. S. (Edgar Sharp), 1891-1956
Ward B. Bates Scrapbook
SDSU-Archives MA 055 · Scrapbook · 1915-1919

This collection consists of a leather-bound scrapbook belonging to 2nd Lt. Ward B. Bates and includes 139 documents, 72 maps, 263 photographs, and 81 picture postcards. The materials document Bates’ military service during World War I, including his training, duty stations, and experiences overseas. Photographs capture Bates and fellow officers during liberty, in training, and in combat zones, with some images taken by Major Joseph Mills Hansen, Chief Historian of the A.E.F. Several photographs depict battlefield casualties.

Documents include U.S. Service Club and Officer Club membership cards, Bates’ honorable discharge from the Army National Guard, and numerous War Department orders detailing the movements of newly commissioned field artillery officers. Duty stations represented include Ft. Dodge (Iowa), Ft. Snelling (Minnesota), Camp Logan (Texas), and Camp Jackson (South Carolina). General Order No. 23 outlines instructions for camp setup and operations in Paris, France. The collection also features newspaper clippings documenting World War I events.

The scrapbook is a firsthand documentation of an American officer’s service and the administrative, logistical, and human dimensions of World War I. It provides insight into military operations, personal experiences, and the broader context of U.S. involvement in the war.

Bates, Ward B. (Ward Bradley) 1895-1946
SDSU-Archives MA 057 · Collection · 1933-2001

This collection documents the military service and enduring legacy of Captain Willibald C. Bianchi, a 1940 graduate of South Dakota State College and one of the earliest Medal of Honor recipients of World War II. Bianchi demonstrated extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Bataan, continuing to lead and assist fellow soldiers despite multiple injuries, before being captured and later dying as a prisoner of war in 1945.

Materials include photocopies of Bianchi’s personal letters from the Philippines and as a POW, offering rare firsthand insight into the experiences of an American officer during the early Pacific campaign. Additional records include correspondence with his family, military officials, and others, as well as memorial writings, newspaper clippings, and biographical information. The collection also features a photocopy of Bianchi’s Medal of Honor certificate and a certificate signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in recognition of his sacrifice.

The collection holds further significance through its documentation of the efforts by Tom Beattie and the Willibald Bianchi Memorial and Scholarship Committee to honor Bianchi’s legacy at South Dakota State University. These materials trace the creation of a memorial plaque, scholarship fund, and commemorative events, highlighting Bianchi’s continued impact on the university and broader public memory.

Bianchi, Willibald C.
SDSU-Archives MA 058 · Collection · 1901-1936

This collection comprises historical sketches and narratives of individual counties in South Dakota, drawn from a variety of published and unpublished sources. Represented counties include Aurora, Bennett, Bon Homme, Brown, Brule, Buffalo, Butte, Campbell, Clark, Douglas, Faulk, Grant, Haakon, Hand, Hanson, Harding, Hughes, Lawrence, Lyman, McPherson, Miner, Minnehaha, Moody, Perkins, Roberts, Spink, Stanley, Sully, Walworth, Yankton, and others. The material includes excerpts from local newspapers, jubilee and anniversary editions, community cookbooks, historical essays, local author contributions, and academic theses. Some counties are represented by detailed historical accounts or commemorative publications, while others are represented by brief overviews or excerpts.

Sources range from local historians, regional publications, official county histories, and collaborative historical efforts such as the American Guide Series. Several items were contributed by local civic organizations or drawn from university theses. The materials date primarily from the early to mid-20th century and reflect the cultural, social, and civic histories of the respective counties.

SDSU-Archives MA 064 · Records · 1970-2019

The Prairie Striders Running Club Records document the activities, events, and history of the organization from its founding in 1969 in Brookings, South Dakota, to the present. The collection includes materials related to race planning, certification, and results for numerous local, regional, and national events, including the Jackrabbit 15, Longest Day Marathon, and various 5K, 10K, and half-marathon races. Also included are meeting minutes, membership lists, organizational constitutions, financial records, and club newsletters such as The Pacesetter and Plains Runner.

The collection contains extensive race certification files, promotional materials, schedules, and training guides, as well as photographs, newspaper clippings, awards, and personal records of notable members such as Keith Morrill, Bob Bartling, and Jay Dirksen. It documents the club’s involvement in collegiate, amateur, and community running activities, including marathons like Boston, Lincoln, and Grandma’s. Also featured are uniform samples, course maps, and coverage of broader running culture through magazines, articles, and memorabilia.

This collection provides insight into South Dakota’s running history and the broader amateur running movement in the Midwest.

Prairie Striders Running Club (Brookings : S.D.)
SDSU-Archives MA 059 · Collection · 13th century, 1440-1496 (Creation)

The H.M. Briggs Library holds five illuminated manuscript leaves, or single pages, consisting of religious texts dating from the 13th to the 15th centuries. One leaf is from the Biblia Sacra Latina (Vulgate Bible), handwritten on vellum and dating to the 13th century. It features wide margins, red and blue chapter numerals, historiated and illuminated initials, and intricate penwork ornamentation.

The remaining four leaves are from the Hours of the Virgin, a section of the Book of Hours, a devotional text widely used during the Middle Ages. These 15th-century vellum leaves originate from France, Flanders, and Paris, with one printed incunabula leaf produced by Philippe Pigouchet for Simon Vostre in 1496. The leaves include rubricated and historiated initials, decorative borders, and elaborate ornamentation in red, blue, and gold. The Hours of the Virgin, also known as the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, includes prayers, hymns, psalms, and lessons said at each of the eight canonical hours. The leaves were acquired from the estate of Morris Elmer Nellermoe, Jr. (1926–2004).

Nellermoe, Morris Elmer, Jr.
Emil Jacobsen Collection
SDSU-Archives MA 056 · Papers · undated

Photocopy of a handwritten memoir of Emil Jacobsen's life. The bound volume includes 254 pages of Jacobsen's personal narrative, along with 10 additional pages containing family tree information and explanatory notes. The memoir offers a detailed, first-hand account likely to hold historical and genealogical significance, particularly in documenting everyday life, cultural identity, and regional experiences during Jacobsen's lifetime. It may also provide valuable insight into immigration, settlement patterns, and family history, making it a useful resource for researchers, descendants, and local historians.

Jacobsen, Emil
SDSU-Archives MA 072 · Records · 1926-2015

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.

South Dakota State Poetry Society
Lotto Underwood Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 083 · Scrapbooks · 1905-1913

This collection consists primarily of the scrapbook The Girl Graduate, Her Own Book, compiled by Loto Rollinstahl Underwood to document her college experience. The scrapbook captures a range of social and academic life through pasted and interleaved materials, including invitations, class listings, programs, dance cards, commencement publications, and newspaper clippings. Spanning 176 numbered pages, the volume features few written entries and no photographs, but offers insight into early 20th-century collegiate customs and women’s student life. Its significance lies in its value as a personal and cultural artifact reflecting women's higher education experiences of the period.

Underwood, Lotto Rollinstahl, 1888–1968
Jack Marken Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 090 · 1784, 1817, 1929-2005

The Jack Marken Papers document the professional, academic, and personal pursuits of Jack Marken, with particular emphasis on Native American literature, Indian education, and the works of British radical philosopher William Godwin. Spanning correspondence, research notes, publications, teaching materials, and organizational records, the collection offers insight into Marken’s interdisciplinary contributions to American Indian studies, literary scholarship, and humanities education.

Significant portions of the collection focus on Marken's engagement with Native American issues, including his work with the Association for Studies in American Indian Literature (ASAIL), Indian education initiatives, correspondence with Native scholars and institutions, and literature by and about Indigenous peoples, notably Sioux literature. Records reflect collaborations with federal and academic bodies such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the South Dakota Committee on the Humanities.

A major area of scholarly focus in the collection is Marken’s extensive research on William Godwin, including annotated bibliographies, manuscript revisions, critical reviews, correspondence, and rare materials related to Imogen, Political Herald, and A Pastoral Romance. The Godwin materials illustrate Marken's academic depth in Enlightenment and Romantic literary thought.

The collection also includes correspondence from students, colleagues, and notable figures; documentation of Marken’s lectureships and academic travel (e.g., University of Jordan); teaching files; SPICE (Summer Program in Cultural Enrichment) program materials; and involvement with various humanities initiatives.

The papers offer valuable documentation of cross-cultural education, literary scholarship, and humanities programming in the mid-to-late 20th century, especially as it intersected with Native American literature and higher education in South Dakota and beyond.

Marken, Jack W.
SDSU-Archives MA 094 · Records · 1992-2005

The Vigil in South Dakota Records document the organization’s mission, goals, and advocacy related to issues of censorship in South Dakota, particularly involving public broadcasting. Materials in Box 1 include internal documents such as mission statements, strategic plans, and board meeting minutes for Educational Telecommunications. The collection also contains correspondence and newspaper articles concerning the censorship of the television program Portrait of a Marriage and broader controversies in South Dakota Public Broadcasting. Included are responses and publications from allied organizations—such as People for the American Way, Friends of Public Broadcasting, and the Sioux Empire Gay/Lesbian Coalition—highlighting community and organizational perspectives on free speech, the arts, and representation in media. Legal and administrative records, including nonprofit reports and incorporation documents, provide insight into the group’s structure and advocacy efforts.

This collection is valuable for researchers studying freedom of expression, LGBTQ+ representation in media, and grassroots activism in South Dakota during periods of public debate over censorship. It documents both local and national responses to broadcast content controversies and highlights the advocacy strategies employed by organizations working to defend civil liberties in public media.

Vigil of South Dakota
Anthony S. Dylla Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 095 · Papers · 1959-1983, undated

The Anthony S. Dylla Papers document research efforts related to irrigation systems, soil analysis, and agricultural water management primarily in Minnesota and surrounding regions. Topics include sprinkler and rotating-boom irrigation, evapotranspiration measurements, soil moisture sensing, nitrogen inputs and leaching, and the effects of wind on irrigation uniformity. The collection highlights Dylla’s contributions to advancing knowledge in hydraulic conductivity, soil classification, and irrigation automation. Also present are publications addressing broader agricultural issues such as drought-hazard soil properties, water seepage control with bentonite, and forage water use studies in Nevada.

Dylla’s research played a key role in improving irrigation strategies in the Upper Midwest, contributing to more sustainable water use in agriculture. His work informed both regional practices and national USDA recommendations, particularly in soil-water dynamics, nitrogen management, and experimental methodology for extension professionals.

Dylla, Anthony S., 1924-2006
Elvin Bjorklund Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 096 · Papers · 1946-1983

The Elvin Bjorklund Papers document the professional career and contributions of Elvin Bjorklund to the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), particularly in South Dakota and Region 5 of the United States Department of Agriculture. The collection includes reports, conference materials, historical narratives, personnel records, photographs, and training documentation. Topics covered include the history, organization, and development of the Soil Conservation Service; conservation projects in the Black Hills and Missouri River Basin; irrigation and land use initiatives; and leadership and training programs.

Notable items include a biographical profile of Elvin Bjorklund, anniversary materials from the SCS’s 25th year, documentation on the Oahe Irrigation Project, correspondence regarding Ross D. Davies, and black-and-white photographs capturing conservation personnel, farms, and field events. Also present are engineering handbooks for Region 5 and materials reflecting national and regional soil conservation programs and needs assessments.

This collection provides insight into mid-20th-century federal conservation efforts, especially within South Dakota. It offers a detailed look at USDA soil conservation strategies, training practices, and local implementation, and it preserves the legacy of key individuals like Hugh Hammond Bennett and Ross D. Davies. Researchers interested in agricultural history, public land use policy, and federal environmental programs will find these materials especially useful.

Bjorklund, Elvin 1908-1990
Hofer/Loewen Family Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 101 · Papers · 1940-2018

The Hofer/Loewen Family Papers primarily document the agricultural operations, political involvement, and personal history of the Hofer family in Beadle County, South Dakota. Spanning from 1947 to 2000, the collection includes detailed farm accounting records maintained through various record book formats, including those issued by South Dakota State College Extension, National Farmers’ publications, and Farm Credit Services. These ledgers provide comprehensive data on land use, livestock inventories, crop production, machinery, expenditures, and farm business summaries.

Also included are materials from Ben Hofer’s 1996 campaign for the South Dakota State Senate, such as advertising, posters, newspaper clippings, and promotional items. Additional content consists of biographical material on Ben Hofer and his father Josua Hofer, a funeral program, photographs, and a farm history written by Elise Waldner. Notably, the collection contains acreage measurements for Milford Township compiled by Josua Hofer in 1940, offering valuable local land use documentation. A series of calendars captures daily appointments and activities, contributing further insight into the family’s agricultural and civic life.

This collection offers researchers a longitudinal record of farm management in eastern South Dakota across five decades, illustrating evolving agricultural practices and rural economics. It also reflects the political and civic engagement of a farming family, particularly through Ben Hofer’s campaign materials and local documentation compiled by Josua Hofer. The materials offer researchers insight into mid-to-late 20th-century rural life, land use, and regional agricultural history in Beadle County.

Hofer, Ben Frank 1926-2018
Pine Ridge Plat Map
SDSU-Archives MA 100 · Ledger · 1930s-1940s

The book contains 146 plats documenting property boundaries, land ownership, and leasing on the Pine Ridge Reservation from 1936 to 2005. Changes to the plats are recorded on transparency sheets placed over the original pages. Each plat in the digitized version includes three scanned images: the transparency over the original, the transparency alone, and the original alone.

At the beginning of the book is a faded page outlining the color-coded shading system used to indicate land status. This is followed by a typewritten copy of the "Order of Restoration, Pine Ridge Reservation," dated June 10, 1936, and issued by Harold L. Ickes, U.S. Secretary of the Interior (1933–1946). The order cites the Act of May 27, 1910, and the Presidential Proclamation of June 29, 1911, as its foundation and announces the restoration of undisposed surplus lands on the Pine Ridge Reservation to tribal ownership, under the authority of the Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934.

The remainder of the book consists of plats of the Pine Ridge Reservation, home to the Oglala Lakota people. The reservation is located in southwestern South Dakota, encompassing Oglala and Bennett Counties and parts of Jackson County. Its boundaries were established by the Act of March 2, 1889 (25 Stat. 888).

United States. Bureau of Indian Affairs
SDSU-Archives MA 103 · Records · 1989-2016

The Oak Lake Writers' Retreat Records document the activities and impact of the Oak Lake Writers Society, particularly their summer retreats aimed at supporting Native American writers, educators, and storytellers. Spanning seven boxes, the collection includes correspondence (notably between Charles Woodard of South Dakota State University and retreat applicants), writings produced during and about the retreats, application materials, grant and funding documents, educational resources, and administrative records.

The files encompass a wide range of themes such as environment, economic development, Indigenous education, mentorship, cultural heritage, and community empowerment. Notable contents include retreat histories, newsletters, reflection papers, photographs, and records on special events such as the Indian Education Summit and the Anniversary Conference. Recurring documentation of specific individuals (e.g., Lowell Amiotte, Joyzelle Godfrey) and locations (e.g., Enemy Swim Course, Devils Tower) also provide personal and geographic context.

This collection chronicles the development of a key cultural and literary initiative that nurtures Indigenous voices in the Northern Plains. It reflects the collaborative efforts between tribal communities and academic institutions to promote Native literature and cultural preservation. The records offer valuable insight into contemporary Indigenous literary movements, community-building through creative expression, and the intersections of education, environment, and Indigenous identity.

Oak Lake Writers' Society
SDSU-Archives MA 104 · Collection · 1978

The Valerian Three Irons American Indian Collection (Box 1) consists of transcripts from 144 oral history interviews conducted during the 1970s with Native American individuals from a broad range of tribal affiliations across the United States. The interviews document personal narratives, cultural perspectives, and community experiences, capturing voices from tribes including, but not limited to, the Nez Perce, Chippewa, Cherokee, Navajo, Hopi, Choctaw, Sioux, Seminole, Apache, and many others.

This collection serves as a primary source for understanding Native American life, identity, and cultural heritage during the mid-20th century. Conducted during a period of renewed Indigenous activism and cultural assertion, the interviews preserve valuable first-person testimonies on topics such as tribal history, traditions, education, activism, language, and social change. The diversity of tribal representation highlights the complexity and breadth of Native American experiences and contributes significantly to the historical record of Indigenous communities in the United States.

Three Irons, Valerian
Dona Brown Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 105 · Papers · 1940-1995

The Dona Brown Papers contain research and project records compiled by Dr. April Brooks and Dr. Ruth Ann Alexander, professors at South Dakota State University, and donated to the Archives in 2004. The material primarily relates to a humanities grant and a literary documentation initiative. Contents include general correspondence, an address index for group members, articles, obituaries, and records from Huron College. Also included are project notes, biographies, and questionnaires related to the “Poets and Writers of South Dakota” project, a literary documentation effort initiated by Dona Brown.

This collection documents scholarly and creative efforts to support and recognize South Dakota’s literary community. It provides insight into grant-funded humanities research as well as the collection and preservation of regional literary histories. The materials reflect both institutional involvement in the humanities and a grassroots approach to documenting the voices of local poets and writers.

Brown, Dona 1909-1996
SDSU-Archives MA 109 · Records · 1999-2020

This collection contains a brief history of the South Dakota Nurses Foundation and meeting minutes from the Board of Directors spanning 1999 to 2019. The Foundation did not meet in 2001, and no minutes exist for that year. Topics addressed in the minutes include membership, financial matters, funding, community engagement, research grants, scholarships, and other organizational concerns.

The collection documents the development and governance of a key support organization for nursing professionals in South Dakota. It provides insight into the Foundation’s role in advancing nursing education, research, and public health initiatives across the state.

South Dakota Nurses Foundation
SDSU-Archives MA 120 · Records · 1969-2021

This collection is composed of local and national records of the South Dakota Paint Horse Club, a non-profit organization affiliated with the American Paint Horse Association. The records document the club’s mission to promote the paint horse breed through administrative oversight, public outreach, and event coordination.

Materials include foundational documents such as by-laws, certification of incorporation, directories, contracts, and meeting minutes, as well as extensive correspondence, financial statements, and memoranda. The collection also features Hoofprints, the club’s official newsletter, which contains updates on officers, show schedules, membership, and organizational developments.

Additional records pertain to programs, futurity events, horse shows, stallion auctions, and national and regional events, including participation in the South Dakota State Fair and the Rapid City Convention. Newspaper articles, awards, rule books, and documentation related to club governance and judging are also present. Audiovisual content includes taped meetings.

These materials illustrate the club’s significant role in promoting the paint horse breed both within South Dakota and nationally from its founding in 1970 through its closure in 2021.

South Dakota Paint Horse Club
David J. Law Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 122 · Papers · 1985

The David J. Law Papers document media coverage and political responses to the 1985 farm crisis in South Dakota and beyond. The collection consists of correspondence, newspaper clippings, press releases, photographs, and audiovisual materials, primarily focused on legislative activity, grassroots advocacy, and public sentiment surrounding agricultural hardship during the period. Materials highlight campaigns such as “Give a Buck,” the South Dakota Legislature's rally and trip to Washington, D.C., and reactions from local and national figures. Of particular interest are annotated snapshots, taped interviews with key political leaders, and original broadcast recordings from KWAT Radio. The collection offers insight into media framing, public mobilization, and regional perspectives on a critical moment in American agricultural history.

Law, David J.
SDSU-Archives MA 123 · Collection · 1930

This collection contains photographs taken by Clav Snow during his time as a student at South Dakota State College in the early 1930s. The images document campus life and student activities, including Hobo Day celebrations, military Field Day Exercises, candid gatherings, and academic settings such as a psychology class. Also featured are photographs of the SDSC Boxing Club, campus buildings and landmarks, and fellow students. The collection offers a visual record of student experiences and campus culture during that period.

Snow, Clav
SDSU-Archives MA 129 · Papers · 1953-2013

The Goodale Papers consist of scanned pages from a scrapbook documenting the Goodales' experiences as students at South Dakota State College from 1953 to 1957. The scrapbook also includes material they collected following their graduation, extending through 2013.

Goodale, Eugene
Neva Whaley Harding Papers
SDSU-Archives MA 130 · Papers · 1868-1987

The Neva Whaley Harding Papers, curated by Jane Alexander, offer a comprehensive exploration of Neva's life, family heritage, and community engagement. The collection is composed of various mediums like manuscripts, correspondence, interviews, certificates, diplomas, and audio recordings, providing insights into Neva's life from her formative years to later life stages.

This collection documents the personal, academic, and domestic history of Neva M. Whaley Harding—a South Dakota homesteader, educator, and writer—and her husband, Albert Spencer Harding. Topics covered include personal experiences, family history, genealogy, education, community involvement, and social issues. Materials include autobiographical writings, manuscript drafts, photographs, certificates, and a substantial body of correspondence with family, friends, and historians.

Of particular value are interviews recorded on open reel audiotape, which delve into Neva’s personality, philosophy, and life experiences, including reflections on events such as the Great Depression and the World Wars. Her manuscript I Recall Pioneer Days in South Dakota and associated research and editorial materials provide first-person insight into settler life and rural womanhood. The collection also includes documents from Neva and Albert’s time at South Dakota Agricultural College, illuminating aspects of college life in the early 20th century.

Through Jane Alexander's efforts, the collection serves as a testament to Neva's legacy and her influence on both her family and her broader community. It offers valuable primary source material for researchers studying women's history, South Dakota heritage, and intergenerational memory.

Harding, Neva Marie Whaley, 1872-1978
SDSU-Archives UA 003 · Records · 1987-1989, 2010

This collection includes a file on South Dakota State University’s 1987–1989 strategic plan, providing insight into institutional priorities and administrative decisions of the period. It offers context for understanding historical strategies and their long-term effects. The collection also contains an open house invitation for the retirement of Vice President Mike Reger, marking a leadership transition and acknowledging his contributions to the university.

South Dakota State University. Vice President for Administration
SDSU-Archives UA 004 · Records · 1957-2011

This collection consists of records related to the Faculty Senate and associated university committees that carry out the Senate’s functions. While some committees are permanent, most change annually based on the evolving priorities of the Senate and the university community. Committee responsibilities can be found in the Faculty/Faculty-Student Committees Handbook.

Materials include meeting minutes, correspondence, reports, clippings, membership files, handbooks, subject files, and publications. The collection documents issues concerning academic affairs, academic freedom and tenure, curricular improvements, the Committee on Elections, the Conference of Senates, and the Senate’s constitution.

Also included are files compiled on subjects of interest to or under the purview of the Academic Senate, likely submitted by reporting committees. These files focus on both faculty and student matters at South Dakota State University. Faculty-related materials cover staff evaluations, faculty-Senate relations, meeting records, faculty rules, and the Faculty Senate. Student materials include proposals on career development, student governance, and Student Senate records.

The collection further contains documents on academic appeals, faculty controversies, curriculum issues, tuition and fees, collective bargaining, accreditation, classified employees, the Resource Allocation Model (RAM), and Senate-sponsored programs and resolutions, including material related to Resolution 21.

South Dakota State University. Faculty Senate
SDSU-Archives UA 005.06 · Records · 1977 circa-2003, undated

This collection consists of materials published by the Department of Biology and Microbiology at South Dakota State University. It includes pamphlets, newsletters, posters, and lectures related to departmental activities, academic programs, and public outreach. Topics represented in the collection include the Bio-molecular Sciences Enhancement Program, environmental management initiatives at SDSU, graduate education in biology, and public seminars. These materials document the department’s efforts to promote scientific education, research, and community engagement.

South Dakota State University. Department of Biology and Microbiology
SDSU-Archives UA 005.04 · Records · 1915-2021

This collection comprises records generated by the Cooperative Extension Service, encompassing a variety of materials related to administrative functions, 4-H programming, personnel communications, news releases, and specialized initiatives such as the South Dakota AgrAbility Project.

The Administrative Records include correspondence with R. Milton Rich, Area Development Specialist, discussing the adult education program in 1964 and proposals for dividing continuing study, extension, and terminal education. Also included are Cooperative Extension Impact Statements for the West District and a history and philosophy of the service, reflecting the broader administrative and strategic goals of the Extension Service.

The 4-H Publications focus primarily on materials directed at 4-H club members and leaders across the state. These include newsletters, project guides, forms, reports, and informational pamphlets. Notably, the collection contains a state commemorative document marking the centennial of 4-H, as well as club member record books from the 1930s, offering insight into the historical development of 4-H programs in South Dakota.

Personnel Communications are a collection of published materials distributed to extension personnel statewide. These materials were initially bound, though their arrangement became more organized over time, with later items categorized by subject starting around 1977. Topics include 4-H, agricultural economics, animal science, home economics, horticulture/forestry, veterinary science, and more. Some news releases are included in this series, reflecting the Extension Service's outreach efforts. In 2004, this material was microfilmed and is now arranged first chronologically by year, then alphabetically by title.

News Releases consist of items distributed to the media by Extension Services, covering a wide range of topics related to agricultural education and outreach from 1939 to 1948. These materials were also microfilmed in 2004 and are arranged chronologically by year and alphabetically by title.

The Publications series contains a variety of materials produced by the Extension Service, including circulars, handbooks, leaflets, newsletters, and reports. These publications provide insight into Extension's educational outreach across numerous disciplines, such as agriculture, home economics, and youth development.

The South Dakota AgrAbility Project is a significant initiative documented in the collection. Established under the 1990 Farm Bill, the project aims to support individuals with disabilities and their families through education and assistance. The South Dakota AgrAbility Project is a cooperative effort between South Dakota State University Cooperative Extension Service, Easter Seals of South Dakota, and Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center, and the collection includes materials related to this important program.

This collection provides a comprehensive view of the Cooperative Extension Service's educational, outreach, and community-building efforts in South Dakota, with a focus on 4-H, agricultural practices, disability support, and rural development initiatives. Materials are housed at an off-site facility, and requests to view the collection must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Some items are available in microfilm.

South Dakota State University. Cooperative Extension Service
SDSU-Archives UA 005.11 · Records · 1951-1996

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.

South Dakota State University. Water Resources Institute
SDSU-Archives UA 006 · Records · 1953-2017

This collection consists of records generated by the administrative offices of the College of Arts and Sciences at South Dakota State University. Materials include correspondence, brochures, bulletins, committee records, meeting minutes, statistical reports, and mission statements, as well as publications related to campus events and academic programs. A substantial portion of the collection comprises newsletters issued under various titles—including Arts at State, College of Arts & Science Newsletter, Focus on Arts at State, Hear Ye! Hear Ye!, What's Up, and Transformation Magazine—which document college activities, achievements, faculty initiatives, and student engagement.

These records provide insight into the organizational structure, communication strategies, and evolving academic and cultural identity of the College of Arts and Sciences. The newsletters, in particular, serve as a valuable chronicle of internal developments, outreach efforts, and the college's role within the broader university community over time.

South Dakota State University. College of Arts and Sciences
SDSU-Archives UA 005.12 · Records · 1921-2017

The Little International Records consist of promotional materials related to the annual Little International Agricultural Exposition organized by South Dakota State University students. The collection includes news releases, posters, and official catalogs or programs for numerous years of the exposition, ranging from the 42nd to the 95th events. These materials document the planning, participants, featured events, and evolution of one of the largest student-run agricultural expositions in the United States.

This collection offers insight into the history, growth, and student involvement in Little International. The catalogs and promotional items highlight the changing scope of agricultural education, student leadership, and public engagement through decades of exposition history. They are an important resource for understanding student traditions at SDSU, as well as the broader cultural and educational role of collegiate agricultural events.

South Dakota State University. Little International Agricultural Exposition
SDSU-Archives UA 006.02 · Records · 1974-2013

This collection documents the activities of the English Department and its engagement with literature, writing, and regional studies at South Dakota State University. It includes departmental publications such as newsletters, pamphlets, posters, and promotional material for events including the Great Plains Writers’ Conference and the Jerome Norgren Poetry Contest. Also present are proceedings and departmental policies, providing insight into the department’s academic and outreach initiatives.

A significant component of the collection is the Pioneer Women Papers, a series of student research projects produced for the course Women Writers of the Great Plains taught in 1978–1979 by Dr. Ruth Alexander. Supported by a grant from the Modern Language Association’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education, the course emphasized the study of regional women writers. These papers offer original biographical and literary research, complemented by photographs, press material, and instructor notes. The collection reflects both the department’s commitment to regional literary scholarship and its efforts to promote student engagement with women's literature from a local perspective.

South Dakota State University. School of English and Interdisciplinary Studies
SDSU-Archives UA 006.05 · Records · 1974-2007

This collection is composed primarily of issues of the Beaker Breaker, a newsletter published by the Chemistry Department from 1978 to 1987. It also includes departmental publications such as the Chemistry Newsletter and Notat-IONS, as well as informational pamphlets, news releases, and program materials related to departmental events and lecture series. Featured events include the Henry A. Lardy Distinguished Lecture Series in Chemistry and the Joseph F. Nelson Mentorship Seminar in Chemistry and Biology. Additional materials include biographical files, correspondence, and documentation on departmental history, student awards, and specialized laboratories such as the Ice Core and Environmental Chemistry Lab.

These records offer insight into the academic culture, outreach, and scientific community of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at South Dakota State University during the late 20th century. The newsletters and lecture series reflect departmental priorities in education, research, and public engagement, while the historical and biographical materials contribute to a broader understanding of the department’s development and impact.

South Dakota State University. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Department of Music Records
SDSU-Archives UA 006.04 · Records · 1900-2018

The Music Department Records document the educational, performance, and promotional activities of the South Dakota State University Music Department from the early 20th century through the early 21st century. The collection includes newsletters, correspondence, concert and recital programs, posters, photographs, student writings, memorabilia, and administrative materials related to departmental ensembles and music curriculum.

The bulk of the collection consists of concert and recital programs for university ensembles—including the Concert Choir, Statesmen, University Women’s Ensemble, Jazz Ensembles, Symphonic Band, Civic Symphony, and the Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band—as well as student and faculty recitals. These materials capture performances held on campus, throughout the region, and on national and international tours. Many programs include performer rosters, program notes, translations, and accompanying newspaper clippings. Recurring events such as The Messiah, the Spring Festival of Music, Madrigal and Yuletide Feastes, and Friday Forum lecture-recitals are well represented. Materials from the Brookings Chamber Music Society further highlight collaborations with guest artists and touring ensembles.

Other items in the collection include early letterhead, alumni newsletters, promotional t-shirts, and photographs depicting choral groups and other student ensembles. Administrative files document planning for concerts and festivals, as well as the department’s broader public engagement.

This collection provides a record of music education and performance at SDSU, illustrating changes in curriculum, repertoire, and student involvement over time. It reflects the university’s role in cultivating musical talent and fostering cultural enrichment on campus and in the wider community.

South Dakota State University. Department of Music
SDSU-Archives UA 006.03 · Records · 1922-2014

The School of Communication and Journalism Records collection at South Dakota State University offers a view of the department’s academic, professional, and cultural history. The materials include a wide array of newsletters, pamphlets, programs, posters, reports, and instructional aids that document the department’s evolution, its educational initiatives, and its engagement with both students and the broader journalism community.

The collection features numerous departmental publications such as newsletters and bulletins that provided updates on internships, academic programs, and faculty activities. It includes promotional and commemorative materials from events like Journalism Week, Newspaper Day, the Lusk Lecture, and various banquets and conferences. These materials reflect the department’s commitment to fostering professional development and celebrating milestones in journalism education.

A significant portion of the collection is devoted to student involvement and experiential learning. The South Dakota Observer, a newspaper entirely produced by students—from writing and editing to typesetting and printing—serves as a central artifact of the department’s hands-on approach to journalism training. Other student-centered materials include style guides, course announcements, and workshop pamphlets, which illustrate the department’s emphasis on practical skills and industry standards.

The collection also highlights the department’s efforts to engage with underrepresented communities, particularly through materials related to American Indian journalism and media. Pamphlets and programs from career conferences and symposia underscore the department’s role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the field.

Instructional resources such as transparencies, slides, and visual aids used in teaching courses on media history and design are also present, offering insight into the pedagogical strategies employed by faculty. Administrative documents, including annual reports and institutional reviews, provide context for the department’s internal development and external recognition, including national awards and accreditations.

This collection is a resource for understanding the history of journalism education in South Dakota and the broader Midwest. It captures the department’s leadership in printing and rural journalism, its dedication to student learning, and its contributions to the professional journalism landscape.

South Dakota State University. School of Communication and Journalism
SDSU-Archives UA 006.07 · Records · 1888-2010

This collection documents the history and activities of the Military Science Department and Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) at South Dakota State University (SDSU), with materials spanning the late 19th century through the early 21st century. It is arranged into three series: Departmental Records, ROTC Records, and Military Organization Scrapbooks.

The Departmental Records contain materials related to military instruction at SDSU that are not specific to ROTC. These include clippings, correspondence, programs, catalogs, and artifacts, such as cadet hats dating from the 1880s and 1920s, and dance cards from early 20th-century military balls. Notable items include clippings on General Omar Bradley and registers of U.S. Military Academy graduates from 1802 to 1978.

The ROTC Records comprise extensive documentation of both Army and Air Force ROTC programs. Materials include newsletters, photographs, event programs, posters, certificates, enrollment data, and memorabilia. Topics covered include military balls, commissioning ceremonies, field training, recruitment, and alumni recognition. Highlights include a 48-star U.S. flag used by the ROTC color guard prior to 1958 and photographs of field exercises at South Dakota training sites.

The Military Organization Scrapbooks feature chronologically arranged scrapbooks created by the Pershing Rifles, Company K, 2nd Regiment, and their sister unit, the Pershingettes, Company K-2, dating from 1964 to 1978. These include photographs, news clippings, and organizational commentary.

The collection documents the evolution of military education at SDSU, the transition to formalized ROTC training following the National Defense Act of 1916, and the continuing presence of ROTC on campus. It reflects both institutional history and the personal experiences of cadets and alumni, including notable figures such as General Omar Bradley and Brigadier General Keith W. Corbett.

South Dakota State University. Department of Military Science
SDSU-Archives UA 006.08 · Records · 1888-2011

This collection consists of materials produced by or related to the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) at South Dakota State University. It includes newsletters, pamphlets, programs, posters, and administrative documents that reflect the department’s academic offerings, facilities, outreach, and recreational programming. Notable items include early athletic schedules and field day programs, materials from the SDSU Wellness Center, reports and self-studies related to athletic training education, and documents concerning intramural, recreational, and intercollegiate athletics. The collection also contains departmental histories, budget records, policy manuals, and publications such as the SDSU Ramblin’ Rec News. These materials document the development and administration of physical education and recreation at SDSU and illustrate the department’s role in promoting student wellness, athletic training, and campus engagement through sport and physical activity.

South Dakota State University. Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation
SDSU-Archives UA 006.09 · Records · 1907-2013

This collection is composed of materials produced by the Visual Arts Department at South Dakota State University and reflects the department’s educational, creative, and promotional activities. It includes programs, posters, pamphlets, mailers, photographs, newsletters, institutional reviews, and documentation of faculty, student, and alumni exhibitions. Notable events represented include the Annual Juried Student Exhibition, the Alumni Exhibition, faculty exhibitions, and a variety of senior shows. Also present are records related to the Ritz Gallery, including retrospective exhibitions, thematic showcases, and promotional materials.

The collection contains examples of student academic work, including projects from Art History courses—such as the Wacipi and September 11th Projects—and features contributions from visiting artists and faculty, including international visitors and presenters. Additional items of interest include a scrapbook created by members of the Delta Phi Delta Art Fraternity, which contains clippings, memorabilia, and original artwork, as well as photographs of early art faculty such as Ada B. Caldwell and Maud Goddard.

This collection is significant for documenting the evolution of art education and visual culture at SDSU, highlighting the department’s emphasis on both academic study and public exhibition. It provides insight into student and faculty creativity, the development of art curricula, and the broader role of the arts on campus and beyond.

South Dakota State University. Department of Visual Arts
SDSU-Archives UA 006.10 · Records · 1981-2005

This collection contains records documenting the academic and outreach activities of the Political Science Department at South Dakota State University. Materials include departmental administrative files, informational pamphlets, and documentation related to specialized programs such as European Studies, Pre-Law advising, the Model United Nations, and the South Dakota Legislative Internship Program. The collection also includes records from the SDSU Native American History Conference.

A substantial portion of the collection is devoted to the Municipal Institute, an outreach and training program administered by the department. These records include curricula, correspondence, program reports, directories, educational materials, and publications from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) and the South Dakota Local Government Institute. Topics include municipal management, elections, records administration, public policy, and local government procedures. Also included are participant transcripts, photographs, certificates, and workshop documentation.

The collection reflects the department’s dual role in academic instruction and public service. It provides insight into the evolution of political science education at SDSU and documents efforts to support civic engagement and local government professionalism across South Dakota. The Municipal Institute records are particularly valuable for understanding the development of continuing education for municipal officials and the department's long-standing partnership with state and regional governance initiatives.

South Dakota State University. Department of Political Science
SDSU-Archives UA 006.11 · Records · 1980-1992, 2005

The Psychology Department Records are composed of materials produced by the department, including banquet programs, departmental newsletters, and a research study poster related to gambling. These records provide a brief glimpse into the department’s public-facing events, internal communications, and research activities.

These materials document aspects of departmental culture, outreach, and research at South Dakota State University’s Department of Psychology. While limited in scope, they reflect the department’s engagement with students and the broader academic community through events, publications, and scholarly inquiry.

South Dakota State University. Department of Psychology
Geography Department Records
SDSU-Archives UA 006.13 · Records · 1973-2021, undated

The Geography Department Records are composed of materials documenting the academic, administrative, and outreach activities of the Geography Department at South Dakota State University. The collection includes departmental budgets, internal and external program reviews, institutional self-studies, and graduate program self-studies, reflecting the department’s development and evaluation over time. It also contains newsletters, correspondence, and materials related to academic events, including lectures, conferences, and the Geographic Information Science Center of Excellence. Of note are files related to Dr. Edward P. Hogan and a booklet on graduate studies in geography, as well as local research materials such as House Types in Brookings, SD: A Visible History. These records provide insight into curriculum development, departmental planning, and the promotion of geographic research and education.

This collection documents the growth and professionalization of the Geography Department at SDSU, including its engagement with national geographic organizations, its role in regional research, and its contributions to geographic education and applied science. Materials related to the Geographic Information Science Center of Excellence and the honoring of Dr. Hogan highlight both technological innovation and individual scholarly impact within the department.

South Dakota State University. Department of Geography
SDSU-Archives UA 006.12 · Records · 1962-2005

This collection consists of material gathered by the Department of Philosophy and Religion at South Dakota State University. It includes pamphlets, booklets, lecture notes, correspondence, and course announcements related to religion, philosophy, education, agriculture, and cultural studies. Notable items include a philosophy lecture by Dr. Stanley L. Olsen, materials from the 1973 Symposium on Education for New World Realities, a course announcement for "Middle East Topics," and documentation of conferences and declarations on religion and public life. The materials reflect the department’s engagement with interdisciplinary and global themes during the 1970s.

The records offer insight into the academic and public programming activities of the Philosophy and Religion Department during a time of expanding curricular focus on global, ethical, and interdisciplinary issues. They document the department’s role in fostering intellectual dialogue on contemporary topics in religion, education, and public life, as well as its collaboration with broader university and national initiatives.

South Dakota State University. Department of Philosophy and Religion
Commerce Department Records
SDSU-Archives UA 006.15 · Records · undated

The Commerce Department Records consist of a pamphlet produced by the Department of Commerce at South Dakota State College promoting business training for rural South Dakota, as well as an offprint from the college catalog describing the department’s offerings. These materials reflect the department’s early 20th-century efforts to provide practical commercial education, including both business and secretarial training, tailored to the needs of rural communities.

These records illustrate the role of the Department of Commerce in advancing vocational education in South Dakota, particularly in rural areas. They highlight the institution's commitment to practical training in business methods, supporting regional economic development and workforce preparation during the early 1900s.

South Dakota Agricultural College. Commerce Department
SDSU-Archives UA 006.16 · Records · 1985, 1991, 1999

The Latin American Studies Records consist of materials related to the interdisciplinary Latin American Area Studies Program at South Dakota State University. The collection includes issues of Latin American Area Studies News, documents from the South Dakota chapter of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (La Llunura), course materials for LAAS 302 (Latin American Politics), and general administrative or promotional items concerning the program. These materials reflect the program’s efforts to foster cross-disciplinary engagement and highlight Latin American social, political, and cultural issues through teaching, outreach, and academic communication.

This collection documents the early development and outreach of the Latin American Area Studies Program at SDSU, which was established in the 1970s to support interdisciplinary education and international awareness. The materials illustrate the program's vocational and educational goals, its integration with various academic disciplines, and its role in preparing students for careers involving Latin America. The presence of course materials and newsletters provides insight into the program’s curriculum, faculty interests, and community engagement over time.

South Dakota State University. Latin American Area Studies Program
SDSU-Archives UA 006.19 · Records · 2004-2006

The Global Studies Records consist of materials related to the development and promotion of the Global Studies Program at South Dakota State University. Included are informational pamphlets describing the major and minor offerings, and documents associated with the introductory course, GIST 201: Introduction to Global Studies. Materials include promotional brochures, correspondence, course announcements, and a draft syllabus.

These records document the early efforts to establish and promote interdisciplinary global education at SDSU following the program's launch in 2004. They reflect the university's commitment to producing globally literate graduates and fostering understanding of international issues and cultural diversity.

South Dakota State University. Global Studies Program
SDSU-Archives UA 008 · Records · 1913-2020

The College of Engineering Records document the development, administration, instruction, research, outreach, and public engagement efforts of the College of Engineering at South Dakota State University. The materials span from the early 20th century through the early 2000s and include booklets, programs, brochures, correspondence, meeting minutes, periodicals, reports, posters, and photographs.

The collection includes annual reports, course catalogs, and documentation of student-focused programs such as Engineering Expo, Exploration Days, and the Senior Design Conference. A significant portion relates to Engineering and Science Research at SDSU, consisting of researcher-specific summary sheets, reports, and correspondence covering work in engineering, chemistry, pharmacy, and agronomy.

Records reflect student and professional development through honor societies, trade fairs, and seminars on ethics, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Impulse magazine, a recurring periodical published by the college, is well represented and highlights events and accomplishments. Also included are files on the history of the college, the development of its departments and facilities, and its community and industry partnerships.

Biographical files feature individuals such as Harold M. Crothers, Harry and Halvor Solberg, and Guy Lee Boyden. The collection also includes material related to the “engineering controversy” of the 1970s, which involved a proposal to relocate the College of Engineering to another institution. These records, composed mainly of clippings, correspondence, and notes, document a critical moment in the college’s history.

This collection documents the evolution of engineering education at South Dakota State University. It offers insight into the college’s response to statewide and national trends, its contributions to research and workforce development, and its engagement with public and private sectors. The records reflect efforts to expand STEM education, support underrepresented students through programs like the Flandreau Indian School Success Academy, and promote innovation through public exhibitions and outreach. Researchers will find valuable material on institutional history, pedagogy, research, and the impact of engineering education in South Dakota.

South Dakota State University. Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering
SDSU-Archives UA 008.01 · Records · 1900, 1949, 1970-1971, 1973, 1992-1994, 2001

This collection primarily consists of instructional material related to the Solid Waste Engineering and Management course at South Dakota State University. The materials include correspondence, course syllabi, lab schedules, lecture notes, exams, and documentation on topics such as landfill design and operation, leachate management, municipal solid waste systems, decomposition processes, and relevant environmental regulations. These materials were likely created by Professors Dwayne Rollag and Vernon Schaefer, who coordinated the course during the early 1990s.

Additional items in the collection pertain to departmental activities and general engineering topics. These include brochures, fact sheets, conference materials, seminar announcements, and departmental records. Notable items include a certificate awarded to the Civil Engineering Department for a 1949 Hobo Day parade float and a campus survey field notebook likely dating to around 1900, based on references to early campus structures.

This collection offers insight into civil and environmental engineering education at SDSU, particularly in the area of solid waste management. It reflects evolving academic approaches to environmental infrastructure and regulation during the 1990s. The inclusion of early surveying records and historical department memorabilia contributes to the broader institutional history of engineering at South Dakota State University.

South Dakota State University. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
SDSU-Archives UA 008.02 · Records · 1967-2011

This collection consists of materials related to the South Dakota State University Electrical Engineering Department, including brochures, programs, newsletters, and documentation of department events and milestones. Notable contents include materials from the 100th Anniversary of Electrical Engineering at SDSU, which features a CD containing digital photographs and event data from the anniversary reception and banquet. The collection also contains Christmas newsletters intended for alumni, highlighting departmental updates and outreach efforts. Additional items include documentation from the Center for Power Systems Studies, the Underground Cable Conference, and various ceremonies such as the A.D. Francis Recognition Luncheon and the Harold C. Hohbach Endowed Professorship investiture.

This collection provides insight into the institutional history, alumni engagement, and professional outreach of the Electrical Engineering Department at SDSU. It documents key events, honors, and academic partnerships that reflect the department’s contributions to engineering education and industry collaboration, particularly in the field of power systems.

South Dakota State University. McComish Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
SDSU-Archives UA 008.03 · Records · 1970s-2009

This collection consists of materials related to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at South Dakota State University. It includes promotional posters and brochures, email correspondence, newsletters, and a policy statement regarding mathematics placement. Topics covered include mathematics tutoring services, placement procedures, and general departmental information.

The materials document the department’s efforts to support student success through placement policies and tutoring, and provide insight into how the department has communicated with students and the broader university community.

South Dakota State University. Department of Mathematics and Statistics
SDSU-Archives UA 008.04 · Records · 1950, undated

This collection consists of a program from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) conference held at South Dakota State University in 1950 and invitations to retirement banquets for faculty members Ken Christianson and Clayton Knofczynski. The materials reflect professional engagement and departmental recognition of long-serving faculty.

The ASME conference program highlights SDSU’s historical involvement in national engineering discourse, while the retirement banquet invitations document faculty contributions and departmental milestones. Together, these materials offer insight into the professional culture and institutional history of the Mechanical Engineering Department.

South Dakota State University. Department of Mechanical Engineering
SDSU-Archives UA 008.05 · Records · 1963-2008

This collection documents the programs, activities, and outreach efforts of the Engineering Resource Center at South Dakota State University. Established in 1986, the Center supported research, education, and technology transfer through initiatives such as the Office of Remote Sensing, the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, the South Dakota Local Transportation Assistance Program, the University/Industry Technology Service, and the Essential Networking and Training for Entrepreneurship (ENTRE) program. Materials include newsletters, brochures, reports, course and program descriptions, applications, technical documentation, correspondence, and photogrammetry images.

Significant content is derived from the Office of Remote Sensing, originally founded in 1969 as the Remote Sensing Institute, which used satellite imagery and GIS technologies to support natural resource management across South Dakota and beyond. Included are aerial thermography materials, technical reports, equipment documentation, stereoscopes, and extensive sets of photogrammetry and aerial images of locations such as Brookings, Big Bend Dam, Meriden, Missoula, and numerous unidentified areas.

The collection also contains documentation from NASA-affiliated Space Grant activities, particularly in the form of award announcements and outreach newsletters. Other series include information on local transportation engineering support, entrepreneurship training, and collaborations between SDSU and industry stakeholders across the state.

The Engineering Resource Center Records reflect SDSU’s leadership in applied engineering, remote sensing, transportation planning, and economic development during the late 20th century. They are particularly valuable for documenting the university’s role in NASA's Space Grant program, South Dakota's infrastructure planning, and the integration of satellite and aerial imaging in environmental monitoring. The collection also illustrates efforts to connect academic research with public service and private-sector needs through interdisciplinary collaboration.

South Dakota State University. Engineering Resource Center
SDSU-Archives UA 008.06 · Records · 1985-2001

This collection is composed of newsletters and informational brochures produced by the Engineering Extension program at South Dakota State University. Materials document training courses, safety initiatives, and outreach efforts, including the S.T.A.T.E. (Safety Training and Technical Education) program, OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Consultation services, and specialized courses such as the Truck and Equipment Maintenance Shop Safety course. The materials were created for administrators, managers, safety officers, and others involved in maintaining safe workplace environments.

The collection reflects SDSU's land-grant mission by highlighting Engineering Extension’s role in advancing workplace safety and technical education across South Dakota. Through consultation services and targeted training programs, the extension helped employers meet regulatory standards and improve occupational health practices, contributing to economic development and public well-being.

South Dakota State University. Engineering Extension
SDSU-Archives UA 008.07 · Records · 1939-2004

This collection documents the activities of the Water and Environmental Engineering Research Center and affiliated academic and research programs, including the Atmospheric, Environmental, and Water Resources (AEWR) Ph.D. program, collaborative research projects, and the Huron Recharge Project. The AEWR program was a joint doctoral program between South Dakota State University and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, established in the early 1990s and phased out in 2004. Materials include program proposals, correspondence, assessment documents, course and promotional materials, and reports related to program development, accreditation, and inter-university collaboration.

The research project files span a variety of topics related to water resources engineering, such as groundwater recharge, wastewater management, water quality monitoring, and bridge infrastructure. The Huron Recharge Project records include agreements, water testing data, progress reports, technical memoranda, and regulatory documents reflecting groundwater recharge efforts and interagency cooperation in Huron, South Dakota.

The records reflect SDSU’s contributions to water resource engineering education and applied research in the Northern Great Plains and beyond. The collection highlights regional, national, and collaborative initiatives in water management, infrastructure design, and environmental engineering. The AEWR Ph.D. program exemplifies inter-institutional efforts to address critical water and environmental challenges through advanced education and research. The Huron Recharge Project provides valuable insight into groundwater recharge methodologies and local water quality monitoring in South Dakota.

South Dakota State University. Water and Environmental Engineering Research Center
SDSU-Archives UA 008.08 · Records · 1954-1999

This collection is composed of brochures, newsletters, and program materials related to the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at South Dakota State University. The records document academic programs, outreach events, and engineering innovations within the department. Included are promotional materials for Agricultural Systems Technology and Food and Bio-Materials Engineering, invitations to departmental banquets and events such as the Annual ABE Hobo Day Celebration, and facility-related documents such as those on the Agricultural Engineering Building. The collection also contains brochures highlighting SDSU-developed electric agricultural equipment like the Chore-tric battery-powered loader and Electric Choremaster. A notable item is the pamphlet Model Farm A.D. 2076, produced for the American Revolution Bicentennial Horizons ’76 Project.

These records reflect the evolution and public engagement of the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department at SDSU. They highlight the department's commitment to applied research, educational outreach, and innovation in sustainable agricultural technologies. The inclusion of materials on SDSU-developed equipment and futuristic planning efforts underscores the department's role in advancing agricultural engineering in South Dakota and beyond.

South Dakota State University. Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Physics Department Records
SDSU-Archives UA 008.09 · Records · 1995, 1997, 2007

This collection consists of records from the Department of Physics at South Dakota State University through June 30, 2018, when the department was administratively reassigned to the College of Natural Sciences. Materials include a sabbatical report from Dr. Joel Rauber during the spring 2007 semester, along with supporting documentation such as the initial sabbatical leave request and a revised edition of the Physics 211 Laboratory Manual. Dr. Rauber’s sabbatical work involved updating laboratory experiments to reflect current equipment and teaching practices. Additional items include a department brochure and an alumni directory covering the years 1927 to 1995.

These records document administrative, curricular, and instructional developments within the Department of Physics over time. Dr. Rauber’s sabbatical work reflects a continued emphasis on instructional quality and modernization, while the alumni directory provides historical context regarding departmental growth and the career trajectories of its graduates.

South Dakota State University. Department of Physics
SDSU-Archives UA 009 · Records · 1884-2008

The Family and Consumer Sciences Records document the development, administration, academic programming, and public engagement of the College of Home Economics and its successor, the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, at South Dakota State University. Spanning the early 20th century through the college’s reorganization in the early 21st century, the records include curriculum materials, committee minutes, faculty resources, newsletters, brochures, workshop materials, program evaluations, and student organization records. Key topics include the establishment and evolution of the core curriculum, graduate programs, student and faculty achievements, and community outreach such as the SDSU Laboratory Preschool and the Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program.

Historical documentation includes comprehensive narrative histories compiled by faculty and alumni, alumni newsletters, and self-study reports. The collection also contains annual and biennial reports, federal reports submitted to the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and documentation of special initiatives such as nutrition education, early childhood development, and Native American student engagement. A large body of photographs—both loose and from dismantled scrapbooks—depict faculty, students, events, facilities, and departmental activities across decades.

Included are portraits of deans, building plans, program brochures, and thesis titles from across the United States, reflecting the college’s academic and national context. Records from the post-1990s period also trace the administrative transition of the college and its departments into broader units within SDSU, particularly the School of Health and Human Sciences and the Ness School of Management and Economics.

This collection documents the evolution of home economics education in South Dakota, particularly at a land-grant institution. As one of the earliest such programs in the nation, SDSU’s Department of Home Economics (later the College of Family and Consumer Sciences) played a pivotal role in expanding educational and professional opportunities for women, promoting applied science, and integrating academic programs with community service. The records provide valuable insight into changes in curriculum, pedagogy, gender roles, and public health priorities from the late 19th century through the early 21st century. They also chronicle the institutional reorganization and broader trends that led to the dissolution of the college and the integration of its programs into new interdisciplinary structures.

South Dakota State University. College of Family and Consumer Sciences
SDSU-Archives UA 009.01 · Records · 1921-1981

The Home Management and Practice Cottage records are composed of photographs and historical materials documenting the Home Management program at South Dakota State College. The collection includes baby books and anecdotal materials compiled by Grace Wasson Bonnell for Dean Alice Rosenberger, which feature photographs and narratives of children who participated in the Home Management baby program. Also included is a history of the program and documentation related to the planning and development of the Family Resource and Management Center, a modern successor to the original Practice Cottage. Photographic content is housed in two boxes and spans various stages of the program’s evolution.

This collection highlights the practical training approach central to home economics education in the early to mid-20th century, illustrating how domestic science was taught through immersive, hands-on experiences. The inclusion of baby programs and residential training underscores the period's educational emphasis on applied family management skills. These records offer valuable insight into women’s education, social roles, and professional preparation in domestic sciences at a land-grant institution.

South Dakota State College. Practice Cottage
SDSU-Archives UA 009.02 · Records · 1963-2006

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.

South Dakota State University. Department of Apparel Merchandising and Interior Design
SDSU-Archives UA 009.03 · Records · 1985-2008, undated

The Nutrition, Food Science, and Hospitality Records consist primarily of brochures and posters for nutrition seminars sponsored by the department, covering topics such as dietetics, food safety, nutrition ethics, and public health issues like obesity. The collection also includes newsletters aimed at health professionals, providing reliable information on nutrition and maternal and child health, as well as fact sheets describing academic programs in food science and hotel and foodservice management. Additional materials include program reviews, laboratory dedications, manuals, and event documentation.

This collection reflects the department’s efforts to advance public and professional knowledge in nutrition, dietetics, food science, and hospitality management. It documents the department’s educational outreach, program development, and contributions to health education, highlighting its role in shaping food and nutrition-related fields at South Dakota State University and beyond.

South Dakota State University. Department of Nutrition, Food Science, and Hospitality
SDSU-Archives UA 013 · Records · 1890-2008

This collection consists primarily of newsletters, magazines, and periodicals produced by the College of Pharmacy, including College of Pharmacy magazine, Focus on the College of Pharmacy newsletter, and Jackrabbits Script & Scope. Additional materials include annual reports, event programs (such as Doctor of Pharmacy Hooding Ceremonies and White Coat Ceremonies), historical records, clippings, student handbooks, research presentation abstracts, and memorabilia, notably a glass pharmacy beaker. These records document the College’s academic programs, student life, professional development activities, historical milestones, and contributions to pharmacy education.

The Pharmacy Records offers insight into the evolution of pharmacy education at South Dakota State University, highlighting the College’s role in preparing pharmacy professionals, advancing pharmaceutical research, and engaging with the broader healthcare community. It preserves a rich record of the College’s academic traditions, professional recognition, historical development, and community partnerships, making it a useful resource for researchers interested in the history of pharmacy education, healthcare training, and institutional history in South Dakota.

South Dakota State University. College of Pharmacy & Allied Health Professions
Alumni Association Records
SDSU-Archives UA 017 · Records · 1892-2022

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.

South Dakota State University. Alumni Association
SDSU-Archives UA 019 · Records · 1907-2018

This collection consists of administrative records generated by SDSU’s Student Affairs Division and its predecessor units. It includes detailed biennial and annual reports submitted to the university president, providing insights into organizational structure, budget planning, student service initiatives, and campus life development. The biennial reports are particularly rich in historical and operational content, covering budget requests, staffing changes, departmental goals, and specialized student services such as counseling, orientation, student records, scholarships, and placement services.

Additional materials include planning documents, strategic initiatives, student handbooks, orientation materials, diversity and inclusion programs, alcohol education efforts, and retention studies. Records from committees (e.g., Student Affairs Council, System Retention Committee), campus-wide assessments (e.g., NCA Self-Study), and events (e.g., Hobo Day, Scholars Receptions) are also represented, highlighting the division’s broad engagement in university life.

This collection provides documentation of how student services have been conceived, implemented, and evaluated at SDSU across decades. It is especially valuable for researchers studying the evolution of higher education administration, student development, and campus policy regarding diversity, wellness, and academic support. The records offer institutional context for broader changes in student affairs nationally, including the expansion of student support services, accountability initiatives, and demographic shifts in student populations.

South Dakota State University. Division of Student Affairs
Admissions Office Records
SDSU-Archives UA 020 · Records · 1886-2013

The Admissions Office Records document the student recruitment, enrollment procedures, and promotional activities of South Dakota State University (SDSU) from the late 19th century through the early 21st century. The materials reflect the office’s evolving role in attracting prospective students, facilitating application and admission processes, and promoting the university's academic and social environment.

This collection offers a view of how SDSU developed and communicated its institutional identity over time. From early bulletins issued by the South Dakota Agricultural College to modern recruitment media, the records show shifts in marketing strategies, outreach to diverse student populations, and growing emphasis on personalized admissions experiences. They are a valuable resource for researchers studying higher education marketing, enrollment trends, and student engagement in a land-grant university context.

South Dakota State University. Office of Admissions
SDSU-Archives UA 022 · Records · 1884-2011

This collection contains records created and maintained by the Office of Records and Registration, documenting its core functions in academic scheduling, student enrollment tracking, commencement planning, and coordination with academic departments. The bulk of the collection consists of comprehensive course schedules spanning decades, catalogs, commencement programs, and enrollment statistics. Also present are short course circulars, committee meeting minutes (including the Committee of Deans and the Committee on Entrance Requirements), administrative correspondence, procedural manuals, and national reporting data such as IPEDS. The collection also includes records related to software implementation (DataTel STUDENT) and various guides related to registration and student services.

These records offer insight into the administrative and academic operations of South Dakota State University, particularly in how course offerings, student registration, and academic policies evolved over time. They are essential for understanding the university’s response to changing educational needs, technological advancements in registration systems, and national trends in enrollment and reporting. This collection supports research in institutional history, higher education administration, curriculum development, and student services.

South Dakota State University. Office of Records and Registration
Financial Aid Office Records
SDSU-Archives UA 023 · Records · 1922-2004

The records in this collection primarily consist of informational pamphlets and materials related to student financial aid and scholarships administered or promoted by the Financial Aid Office. Included are materials for general scholarships, memorial scholarships (e.g., George Stanley Hazard, John R. Andersen, John W. Headly), the Rhodes Scholarship, the Vietnam War Memorial Scholarship, and specific scholarships for the School of Agriculture. Additional content covers high school scholarship recognition and general information about financial aid programs at SDSU.

These records document the efforts of SDSU to support student access to higher education through financial aid and scholarships. They highlight the university’s partnerships with memorial donors, state institutions, and national organizations, providing insight into evolving student support services and educational funding.

South Dakota State University. Office of Financial Aid
Ethel Austin Martin Papers
SDSU-Archives UA 024.01 · Papers · 1904-1993

The Ethel Austin Martin Papers span her personal life, academic background, professional career, and enduring legacy in the field of nutrition. The collection includes correspondence, publications, autobiographical writings, oral history transcripts, photographs, ephemera, awards, and memorabilia. It documents her education from elementary school through graduate studies at Columbia University, her work as an educator and director of nutrition services at the National Dairy Council, and her authorship of several widely used nutrition textbooks. Also included are materials related to her professional affiliations, recognitions, and involvement in national and international conferences. A significant portion of the collection relates to her long-standing relationship with South Dakota State University, particularly her efforts to establish the Ethel Austin Martin Program in Human Nutrition. Items such as diplomas, certificates, calling cards, and a blanket worn in the first Hobo Day parade help illuminate her personal story, while her correspondence and writings reflect her contributions to nutrition education and public health.

Ethel Austin Martin was a nationally recognized leader in nutrition education and public health. As director of nutrition services at the National Dairy Council, she helped shape national nutrition programming. Her influence extended through her textbooks, professional service, and advocacy. This collection is of particular value to researchers studying 20th-century nutrition education, women in science, public health outreach, and South Dakota State University's institutional history. The papers offer insights into both her professional impact and personal legacy, especially her dedication to fostering human nutrition education through the endowed chair at SDSU.

Martin, Ethel Austin
SDSU-Archives UA 026 · Records · 1973-1993

The Non-Traditional Student Office Records (UA 26) document the development, administration, and support services of South Dakota State University's Non-Traditional Student Program from its inception in the mid-1970s. The records span a wide range of topics, including program administration, recruitment, orientation, counseling, publicity, financial aid, and continuing education efforts for adult and re-entering students. A significant portion of the collection focuses on child care—an ongoing concern for non-traditional students—with materials from the Day Care Task Force, legislative efforts, provider lists, and research on campus-based day care models. Additional contents include newsletters, handbooks, research studies, and promotional materials like "Let SDSU Open the Door for You." The collection reflects institutional efforts to attract, retain, and support adult learners through targeted services and advocacy.

These records highlight SDSU’s early recognition of and response to the unique challenges faced by non-traditional students, particularly in areas such as child care, flexible learning, and support services. The materials offer insight into the evolution of adult education policy and support infrastructure in higher education during the late 20th century.

South Dakota State University. Non-Traditional Student Programs
Career Center Records
SDSU-Archives UA 027 · Records · 1975-2008

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.

South Dakota State University. Career Center
SDSU-Archives UA 029 · Records · 1962-2006

This collection consists of materials produced by Student Health and Counseling Services at South Dakota State University. It includes flyers, pamphlets, newsletters, handbooks, and posters related to student wellness initiatives. Topics include immunization clinics, alcohol awareness, insurance options, body image support, and campus events like the Wellness Fair and National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week. The collection highlights the department’s efforts to promote physical and mental health, encourage responsible behavior, and provide accessible health resources to students.

These records reflect the university's commitment to supporting student well-being through outreach, education, and accessible services. They document the evolution of health promotion strategies and the campus response to issues such as alcohol use, mental health, and preventative care.

South Dakota State University. Student Health and Counseling Services
Residential Life Records
SDSU-Archives UA 031 · Records · 1969-2008

Residential Life Records contains materials related to residential life and food services at South Dakota State University. It includes manuals for resident assistants and student housing staff, food service menus and programs, residence hall handbooks, contracts, and information brochures.

This collection consists of documentation pertaining to Residential Life at South Dakota State University, including residence hall operations, staff training, and food service programs. Materials include resident assistant and housing staff manuals detailing organizational structure, policies, and emergency procedures. Food service content ranges from meal plan brochures and catering menus to special event menus and advisory council notices. Also included are residence hall handbooks, application materials, staff directories, and promotional posters, providing insight into student housing operations and services offered on campus.

This collection provides documentation of the policies, services, and organizational structure of on-campus living and dining at SDSU. It reflects the university’s efforts to support students' residential experience through structured staff roles, varied food service options, and student engagement in residence life governance.

South Dakota State University. Residential Life
Greek Council Records
SDSU-Archives UA 034 · Records · 1980-2007

This collection consists of clippings, newsletters, and flyers related to fraternity and sorority life at South Dakota State University. It includes materials from Alpha Xi Delta, Ceres, Chi Omega, FarmHouse, Lambda Chi Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon (including Thoughts from SD Theta), Sigma Phi Epsilon, and general recruitment efforts.

The materials offer insight into Greek life programming, recruitment strategies, and student engagement from the perspective of individual chapters, reflecting the culture and community involvement of SDSU's fraternities and sororities.

South Dakota State University. Greek Council
SDSU-Archives UA 035 · Collection · 1889-2008

This collection documents the activities and presence of a wide range of student organizations at South Dakota State University, representing academic, professional, cultural, religious, political, and recreational interests. Materials span more than a century of student life and showcase the diverse extracurricular landscape of the university.

This is an artificial collection composed of ephemeral and documentary material related to SDSU student organizations. It includes flyers, newsletters, charters, constitutions, programs, brochures, clippings, correspondence, and award certificates. The collection is not comprehensive, and materials have been added informally as discovered. Some items date as far back as the Class of 1891, while others represent 20th and 21st-century groups, such as cultural associations (e.g., Chinese Student Association, Black Student Alliance), professional and academic clubs (e.g., Agronomy and Conservation Club, Sigma Tau Delta), Greek organizations, and recreational or service groups (e.g., Habitat for Humanity, Karate Club). File size and completeness vary greatly across organizations.

This collection offers a snapshot of student engagement at SDSU across generations. It reflects changing student interests, identities, political affiliations, and social movements. Particularly valuable for those studying student activism, campus culture, and organizational development, it captures the evolving role of student leadership and extracurricular involvement in shaping the university's history.

South Dakota State University. Student Enrichment Programs Office
SDSU-Archives UA 035.02 · Records · 1985-1994

This collection documents the activities of the Brookings Veterans Society and includes correspondence, accounting records, constitution and by-laws, membership information, forms, and newsletters. The largest portion of the collection relates to the Society’s annual book sale fundraiser and includes price lists, ledger sheets, publicity materials, and sign-up forms. Also included are materials related to meetings, room reservations, and the South Dakota Association of Collegiate Veterans Convention.

The records provide insight into the organizational, fundraising, and outreach efforts of veteran students at South Dakota State University. The prominent focus on the book sale highlights the group's self-sustaining fundraising initiatives, while the broader documentation reflects their integration into campus life and the veteran community.

Brookings Veterans Society (Brookings, S.D.)
Dairy Club Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.03 · Records · 1972-2008

This collection includes annual reports, multiple issues of the Dairy Digest periodical, awards banquet programs, and a scrapbook compiled in 1985. The Dairy Digest began as a newsletter and evolved into a formal periodical in the early 1990s, providing updates on the Dairy Department and Dairy Club activities.

The records document the ongoing activities, achievements, and growth of the Dairy Club at South Dakota State University. The Dairy Digest serves as a valuable historical resource capturing departmental news and student involvement over time, while the scrapbook offers a visual and narrative glimpse into the club’s past.

Dairy Club (South Dakota State University)
Geography Club Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.04 · Records · 1972-2006

This collection documents the activities and promotion of the Geography Club and the South Dakota State Geography Convention, highlighting event planning, recruitment efforts, and historical perspectives on the convention’s role in geography education.

It includes programs, news releases, and commemorative books from the annual convention, along with flyers for club recruitment and events. Also featured is an article by Edward Patrick Hogan that explores the history of the convention.

Together, these materials offer valuable insight into how the Geography Club supports academic and professional development for students and emphasize the convention’s significance as a distinctive educational event that unites geographers from diverse backgrounds.

Geography Club (South Dakota State University)
Home Economics Club Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.05 · Records · 1923-1979

The Home Economics Club Records highlight the club’s role in fostering professional and social development among home economics students. They offer insight into the club’s operations, its affiliation with national organizations, and its contributions to the broader academic and community context.

The records consist of secretary books (including meeting minutes and the club constitution), scrapbooks, newsletters, handbooks, general club information, and materials from the American Home Economics Association. The secretary books date from the club's inception through 1956, documenting the organization’s activities, governance, and development.

South Dakota State University. Home Economics Club
SDSU-Archives UA 035.08 · Records · 1976-1991

The Non-Traditional Student Club Records consist of materials documenting the organization’s administration and activities. Included are budget records, the club constitution, executive council documents, membership lists, meeting minutes, and related correspondence.

This collection provides insight into efforts to support non-traditional and lifelong learners at South Dakota State University, reflecting the university’s commitment to educational accessibility and inclusion for diverse student populations.

South Dakota State University. Non-Traditional Student Club
SDSU-Archives UA 035.09 · Records · 1949-2018

The Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society Records document the activities, governance, and membership of the South Dakota State University chapter from its charter meeting in 1949 through the early 2000s. The collection includes meeting minutes, constitutions, membership lists, banquet and lecture programs, correspondence, publicity materials, and financial records.

These materials offer a detailed view of the chapter’s founding, development, and academic involvement on campus. Foundational items include the original charter meeting minutes and constitution, along with extensive nomination and selection materials for faculty, student, graduate, alumni, and honorary members. The collection also contains initiation records, banquet and faculty lectureship programs, officer communications, IRS filings, national and regional correspondence, newsletters, clippings, and directories.

This collection is significant for understanding the role of honor societies in fostering academic achievement and faculty recognition at SDSU. It reflects decades of academic excellence, institutional support, and intellectual engagement, and provides valuable insight into evolving academic culture and organizational practices over time.

Phi Kappa Phi. South Dakota State University Chapter
Phi Upsilon Omicron Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.10 · Records · 1909-2006

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.

Phi Upsilon Omicron
Scabbard and Blade Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.11 · Records · 1926-1979

This collection consists of initiation materials, a procedural manual, and meeting minutes for the Scabbard and Blade Company I, 6th Regiment. The manual outlines the society’s annual calendar, initiation procedures, officer duties, correspondence with national headquarters, and other administrative processes. The initiation documents cover nomination procedures, pledge week conduct, and organizational objectives. The minutes detail officer elections, membership rosters, financial reports, and involvement in campus events such as Hobo Day and Spring Sing. Topics also include constitutional amendments, military balls, and scholarship discussions.

These materials provide insight into the leadership training, military traditions, and campus involvement of ROTC cadets at South Dakota State across several decades. They reflect the organization's commitment to service, honor, and fellowship, and its role in shaping the student military experience.

Scabbard and Blade Fraternity
Stakota Club Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.12 · Records · 1962-1969

This collection primarily consists of meeting minutes and several versions of the Stakota Club constitution. The minutes document roll calls, pledges, club business, and the nomination and election of officers. Also included are records of club activities, correspondence, and a list of secretary duties from 1967–1968.

These materials provide insight into the internal operations, leadership structure, and spirited activities of a co-ed student organization that promoted school spirit at South Dakota State University from the 1940s through the 1960s.

South Dakota State University. Stakota Club
SDSU-Archives UA 035.13 · Records · 1897-1933

This collection includes organizational records and event materials documenting the activities of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) at South Dakota State University. It features administrative ledgers and various programs that reflect the group's role in campus religious life, student leadership, and extracurricular activities. Also included are secretary’s and treasurer’s books, a handbook for members, and programs for lecture courses, plays, the YMCA Entertainment Series, student conferences, and installation banquets.

The secretary’s books include minutes of meetings, membership records, and loose materials such as correspondence and notes. The treasurer’s books document financial transactions and also contain information related to membership, gym cards, subscriptions, and lecture courses.

The materials provide valuable insight into the mission, governance, and student engagement of the Young Men’s Christian Association at South Dakota State University. They reflect the organization’s broader goals of spiritual development, social fellowship, and the promotion of Christian values in campus life.

South Dakota State University. Young Men's Christian Association
SDSU-Archives UA 035.14 · Records · 1887-1902

This collection consists of records from the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor at South Dakota State University. Materials include the constitution and bylaws (with amendments), secretary’s books, and a booklet of prayer meeting topics. The secretary’s books serve as the primary recordkeeping source and include minutes of meetings and membership information. These records offer insight into the religious and social activities of young Christians on campus, their organizational structure, and the devotional themes they explored.

The collection documents the efforts of Christian youth to foster fellowship and spiritual development through organized prayer meetings, governance, and communal responsibilities. It reflects early 20th-century student religious life and offers context for broader Christian youth movements in American higher education.

South Dakota State University. Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor
SDSU-Archives UA 035.15 · Records · 1947, 1976-1978, 1984

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

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

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

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

Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi
Economics Club Records
SDSU-Archives UA 035.17 · Records · 1951-2012

This collection documents the activities and membership of the South Dakota State University Economics Club through newsletters, constitutions, reports, brochures, photographs, and event materials. It includes detailed records of annual awards banquets, senior brochures highlighting graduating members, and photos from various club trips to cities such as Denver, Milwaukee, Omaha, Minneapolis, and Wyoming. The collection also captures the club’s participation in campus traditions like Hobo Day, including floats, parades, and related celebrations, as well as social events such as summer arts festival booths, fall picnics, and Christmas parties. Newspaper articles and club fliers further illustrate the club’s presence and engagement within the university community.

This collection provides valuable insight into the social, academic, and extracurricular life of Economics students at SDSU. It highlights the club’s role in fostering professional development, camaraderie, and community involvement among Economics students and faculty. The variety of materials documents not only formal club operations but also the broader cultural and social experiences that shaped student life, making it a rich resource for studying campus traditions, student engagement, and the history of Economics education at SDSU.

South Dakota State University. Economics Club
SDSU-Archives UA 039 · Records · 1978-2024

This collection documents the programming, outreach, publications, and interpretive efforts of the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum. Materials date primarily from the late 20th and early 21st centuries and include annual reports, marketing materials, newsletters, exhibit documentation, event programs, workshop materials, and promotional items. The records reflect the museum’s mission to preserve and interpret the history of agriculture and rural life in South Dakota from 1860 to the present.

Included are brochures, flyers, calendars, postcards, and posters related to museum events and exhibits. Exhibits represented in the records include: Dreams Fulfilled and Dreams Forgotten, Groundbreakers, Between Fences, South Dakota Made, FarmHER South Dakota, and several others focusing on agricultural science, machinery, and rural culture. Programs and lectures include the Brown Bag Series, the N.E. Hansen Lecture Series, author events, historical presentations, musical performances, and hands-on workshops such as homebrewing, Dutch oven cooking, scrapbooking, and embroidery preservation.

A variety of outreach efforts are also documented, including direct mail campaigns, community events, holiday promotions, and museum store marketing. Newsletters from both the museum and the Friends of the Museum group offer insight into ongoing operations, donor engagement, and institutional developments. Unique artifacts such as souvenir books, trade cards, historical postcards, and commemorative publications further support the museum’s mission to preserve agricultural heritage.

These records are a resource for their detailed documentation of public history efforts relating to South Dakota agriculture, material culture, and rural life. They provide insight into how a university-affiliated museum engages with diverse audiences through exhibitions, educational programming, publications, and outreach. The collection also reflects broader themes in public history, museology, and rural studies.

South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum
SDSU-Archives UA 040 · Records · 1929-202

This collection consists of publications and printed material produced by the South Dakota State University (SDSU) Marketing and Communications unit, formerly known as University Relations. The records span several decades and reflect the unit's central role in internal and external university communications. The materials document institutional messaging, campus updates, and promotional efforts intended for various audiences, particularly faculty, staff, prospective students, alumni, and the public.

Major components of the collection include high-frequency campus communication pieces such as Today at State, Faculty Bulletin, University Bulletin, SDSU Update, E-Connect, and SDSU Newsline. These serials provided regular updates on lectures, events, job postings, policy changes, and campus news. They underwent several title and format transitions reflecting changes in communication technology and strategy:

  • 1944–1970: Faculty Bulletin
  • 1971–1977: University Bulletin
  • 1978–2004: SDSU Update
  • 2000–2004: E-Update (briefly printed, then online)
  • 2004–2007: E-Connect (online only)
  • 2007–present: SDSU Newsline (emailed and web-published)

Today at State, a daily bulletin printed during the academic year from 1971 to 2007, was directed toward campus faculty and staff, serving as a primary channel for time-sensitive updates.

Additional materials in the collection include Calling Home from South Dakota State University, Impact State, Arts at State newsletters, research and promotional reports (e.g., SDSU Marketing Strategy, Graphic Identity Manual), event guides, market research, and publications related to specific colleges and campus initiatives. Issues of College Home from SDSU Magazine, special event planning documents, donor recognition materials, and visual promotional content such as postcards, banners, and merchandise catalogs further illustrate the university’s evolving branding and outreach strategies.

This collection also includes content documenting significant institutional moments such as the SDSU Centennial, branding initiatives, and building dedications. It offers insight into how SDSU has communicated its mission, academic offerings, and institutional priorities to various stakeholders over time.

This collection is a resource for their comprehensive documentation of South Dakota State University’s official communications, branding evolution, internal messaging, and public outreach. They reflect administrative priorities, institutional culture, and university-community relationships. These materials are particularly useful for researchers studying higher education marketing, land-grant university identity, and institutional communication trends over the 20th and 21st centuries.

South Dakota State University. University Marketing and Communications