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Finding Aid
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.

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.)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Pine Ridge Plat Map
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
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
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
MA 107 · Collection · 1939-00-00

This collection contains translated text from Nazi propaganda posters produced during World War II. The content includes slogans, ideological statements, and calls to action promoting loyalty to Adolf Hitler, national unity, military sacrifice, and the Nazi worldview. Themes include militarism, anti-Semitism, anti-communism, and glorification of the German soldier and homeland. The posters were intended for public display to influence civilian and military morale.

The posters reflect how the Nazi regime used propaganda to mobilize support, enforce conformity, and justify war. They illustrate key elements of Nazi ideology and the use of language to shape public opinion and behavior under a totalitarian state.

German war posters
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
David J. Law Papers
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Physics Department Records
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
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
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
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
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
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
Admissions Office Records
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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
Phi Upsilon Omicron Records
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
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
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
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.

Young Men's Christian Association
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
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
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
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
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
UA 042 · Records · 1967-2018

The records in this collection document the development, planning, administration, and operations of the Division of Technology and Security at South Dakota State University. The files reflect the evolution of computing services and information technology on campus and include material from various units such as the Office of Information Technology, Computing Services, the Vice President’s Office, Information Technology Services, and Classroom Technologies Services. Spanning multiple decades, the records offer insight into university-wide initiatives related to academic computing, infrastructure planning, student support, administrative operations, and faculty development.

The collection contains a comprehensive run of the Computing Services newsletter, many of which include subject indexes. Other materials include annual reports, technology strategic plans, budget documents, user manuals, training guides, and documentation related to major computing initiatives such as the Y2K preparations and response. Meeting minutes from the Computing Directors Council, Computer User’s Advisory Council, Computer Center Directors Council, and the Technology Affairs Council provide insight into decision-making and policy development. Also represented are Board of Regents-level plans and inter-university collaborations such as the Electronic University Consortium.

A significant portion of the collection focuses on classroom and instructional technology, including manuals, guides, audiovisual resource lists, and newsletters from the Instructional Media Center and Audio-Visual Center. Materials from the Student Computing Services unit include training manuals, handbooks, newsletters, orientation documents, and reports on student satisfaction and support. Technology training is documented through records of the Technology Training Team and Train-the-Trainer initiatives.

The collection also includes documentation on server infrastructure, campus network access, bandwidth analysis, virus protection, policy development, computer lab operations, and specialized planning such as the Strategic Information Technology Plan for a 21st Century Lead-Forward Land-Grant Institution. Additional topics covered include ergonomics, flexible work schedules, international student employment in IT, and the Student Technology Fellows Program.

These records are a resource documenting computing services and information technology planning in a higher education environment, reflecting the shift from mainframe computing to decentralized, networked systems and the growing integration of technology into teaching, research, and administration.

South Dakota State University. Division of Technology and Security
UA 043 · Records · 2000-2004, 2010

The Environmental Health and Safety Office Records consists of materials related to workplace safety and emergency preparedness at South Dakota State University. The contents include a pamphlet titled Life Safety at South Dakota State University, which outlines procedures and best practices for responding to emergencies in the workplace. The material reflects the Environmental Health and Safety Office’s role in promoting campus-wide safety awareness and compliance with life safety standards.

This record documents the university’s efforts to educate faculty, staff, and students on emergency protocols, underscoring the institution’s commitment to a safe campus environment. It is valuable for understanding institutional safety policies and emergency response planning.

South Dakota State University. Office of Environmental Health and Safety
UA 044 · Records · 1996-2009

This collection documents the functions and activities of the Human Resources Office at South Dakota State University and includes materials primarily related to employee management, benefits, training, and policy dissemination. Records include personnel handbooks, employee orientation materials, annual and sick leave guidelines, and documents related to recruitment and appraisal systems for Career Service and Civil Service employees.

Also included are meeting minutes and program materials from the Career Service Advisory Council, Civil Service Advisory Council, and Faculty Senate, as well as internal communications such as HR Messenger newsletters. Materials relating to equal opportunity, non-discrimination, harassment prevention, and inclement weather policies are present, along with documents supporting employee education and financial planning. The series also contains information regarding the implementation of web-based time entry systems and proposed updates to personnel policies.

These records are a resource documenting the evolution of human resource policies and practices at the university, the institution's compliance with employment laws, and its efforts to support employee development and workplace equity.

South Dakota State University. Human Resources Office
UA 045 · Records · 1996-2008

This collection documents the programming, outreach, and educational efforts of the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity (later known as the Office for Diversity Enhancement) at South Dakota State University. It includes brochures, flyers, calendars, schedules, newsletters, video recordings, and clippings related to diversity initiatives, events, and lectures. Materials promote campus-wide awareness and engagement around issues of diversity, inclusion, and social equity. Featured content includes the “Festival of Cultures,” “Ethnicity Matters” conference sessions and keynote, and lectures such as “Iraq War, American Foreign Policy and the Mass Media” and “Syria and the Changing Middle East” by Dr. Imad Moustapha. The collection also includes educational materials on prejudice, discrimination, sexual harassment, and disability awareness, as well as internal documents such as annual reports and job descriptions.

The collection reflects the university's evolving approach to diversity education and outreach, highlighting its role in facilitating inclusive dialogue and cultural understanding on campus. It provides evidence of institutional responses to global issues, community engagement, and diversity-related pedagogy.

South Dakota State University. Office for Diversity Enhancement
Jackrabbit Athletics Records
UA 046 · Records · 1901-2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Dakota State University. Jackrabbit Athletics
UA 046.02 · Records · 1971-1986

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

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

South Dakota Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women
UA 047 · Records · 2002-2003

This collection documents multicultural programming and student support initiatives coordinated through the Office of Multicultural Affairs at South Dakota State University. Materials primarily relate to events and programs designed to support students of color and promote diversity on campus. Included are event schedules and promotional materials for Black History Month, the Festival of Cultures featuring the Lex Exodus Reggae Band, and activities related to the Minority Peer Mentor Program. Specific items include flyers for the Minority Peer Mentor Program and its Summer Options Workshop, and a broadside advertising a campus lecture by speaker Adilah Barnes. These materials reflect efforts by the university to celebrate cultural diversity, foster inclusion, and provide academic and social support for underrepresented students.

South Dakota State University. Office of Multicultural Affairs
Faculty Association Records
UA 050.02 · Records · 1946-1972

The Faculty Association Records document the organizational, administrative, and advocacy activities of the South Dakota State College (later South Dakota State University) Faculty Association from its founding in 1946 until its dissolution in 1972. The collection includes constitutions and by-laws, minutes, correspondence (primarily from or to the association's acting head), and committee records.

The records reflect the association’s advisory role and its efforts to address faculty-related concerns including appointment, rank and promotion, tenure, salary studies, insurance, retirement, sabbatical leave, travel expenses, outside activities, and faculty honors. Committees played a central role in the association’s work, and while their names evolved over time, they consistently focused on faculty welfare and institutional policy input. Also included are materials related to the selection of a college president, evaluation of public higher education in South Dakota, and membership and financial records. The bulk of the collection spans the years 1952 to 1960, with some earlier and later documents included for continuity.

This collection is significant for understanding faculty governance, institutional change, and the professional concerns of academic staff during the mid-20th century at South Dakota State.

South Dakota State University. Faculty Association
Faculty Meeting Records
UA 050.03 · Records · 1885-1981

This collection contains the official minutes of faculty meetings held at South Dakota State University from the institution’s early years through the 1980s. The records are largely complete, with notable gaps between Fall 1898–Spring 1903 and June 1907–March 1918. The minutes document the administrative, academic, and policy-related discussions and decisions made by the faculty. In addition to the meeting notes, some files include supplemental materials relevant to agenda topics, such as student petitions or brochures from campus events. While the tone of the records is generally formal and procedural, the documentation provides insight into the evolving structure of faculty governance, campus concerns, and institutional development over time.

These records serve as a primary source for understanding the historical governance of South Dakota State University, the role of faculty in institutional decision-making, and the administrative evolution of the university. They are particularly valuable for tracing faculty engagement, responses to student concerns, and the shifting format and purpose of faculty meetings across decades.

South Dakota State University. Faculty Meeting
Faculty Round Table Records
UA 050.04 · Records · 1901

The Faculty Round Table Records consist of foundational administrative documents related to the formation and governance of the Faculty Round Table at South Dakota State University. The collection includes a handwritten ledger containing the group’s original by-laws and minutes from its first meeting. These by-laws outline the organization's name, mission, membership requirements, officer roles, and procedures for conducting meetings. A typewritten version titled "Tentative Rules Governing Faculty Round Table" presents similar content, providing a clearer reference for organizational structure and protocol.

This collection offers insight into the early governance and self-organization of faculty at SDSU, reflecting the values, administrative priorities, and participatory culture of the academic community during the group’s inception. The documents serve as valuable primary sources for understanding faculty governance practices, professional engagement, and institutional development.

South Dakota Agricultural College. Faculty Round Table
UA 050.07 · Records · 1965-1969

The SDSU Advisory Council Records consist primarily of meeting packets distributed to council members. These packets include membership lists, statistical data, departmental reports and publications, resolutions from previous meetings, presentations, and leaflets summarizing the outcomes of annual meetings. Also included is a 1969 newsletter reporting the results of that year's annual meeting. These materials provide insight into the administrative and advisory functions of the Council and document its role in institutional planning and review at South Dakota State University.

This collection reflects the structure and function of advisory governance at SDSU. It documents faculty and administrative engagement in decision-making processes and offers evidence of historical departmental activities and strategic planning initiatives. The materials serve as a valuable resource for understanding institutional priorities, academic developments, and council deliberations over time.

South Dakota State University. SDSU Advisory Council
UA 050.08 · Collection · 1997-2005

The Helen J. Van Zante Endowment Collection documents the impact of the Van Zante endowment in advancing the visual arts at South Dakota State University. The collection includes materials related to visiting artists such as Chris Casady, David Joshua, Carol Hepper, Dennis Holm, Thomas Huck, Roy McKelvey, Ron Stucki, and Steve Welch. It contains event programs, student essays, videos, posters, and publications that reflect a wide range of campus art initiatives. The records highlight exhibitions, professional engagement, and academic contributions made possible through the endowment, including the Design Forum, Visual Wave: Daktronics Alumni and Employees, and the Visiting Professorships in the Visual Arts.

The collection offers insight into the cultural and educational efforts supported by the Helen J. Van Zante Endowment. Through artist residencies, student engagement, and public programming, the endowment fostered creative expression, professional development in the arts, and collaboration between the university and broader community in the fields of design and visual media.

South Dakota State University. Helen J. Van Zante Endowment
UA 050.12 · Records · 1978-2004

The Sigma Xi, SDSU Chapter 139 Records document the activities and history of the South Dakota State University chapter of Sigma Xi, a scientific research honor society. The collection includes a commemorative booklet marking the first 25 years of the chapter, materials related to distinguished lectures and graduate student research awards, newsletters, documentation of the chapter’s involvement in science and engineering fairs, and a historical paper titled Nicolaus Copernicus: His Life and Work by Marian Wnuk, presented under the auspices of Sigma Xi. These records reflect the chapter’s role in promoting scientific research, recognizing scholarly achievement, and engaging the university and local community in scientific discourse.

This collection is significant for understanding the development and contributions of a major scientific honor society at SDSU. It illustrates the chapter's efforts to foster research excellence, support graduate student work, and organize public-facing events such as lectures and science fairs. The materials serve as a record of faculty and student involvement in the broader scientific community and offer insight into the academic culture of SDSU over several decades.

Society of the Sigma Xi
Committee Files Collection
UA 051 · Collection · 1900-1989

This is an artificial collection composed of miscellaneous materials generated by various committees at South Dakota State University. Contents include pamphlets, reports, correspondence, proclamations, and meeting minutes. The materials were not acquired through a systematic collecting effort but are instead compiled as they are discovered. Documents in this box span a wide range of committee functions, from academic policies and faculty engagement to student recruitment, ROTC programming, and computing issues.

Among the more substantial items are minutes from the Classification Committee (1900–1914), which addressed admissions and credit policies, and the Rules and Regulations Committee (1931), which proposed consolidating institutional policies into a single publication. The Faculty Committee on Air Transport produced a report on the impact of air travel on university operations, while the Faculty Workshop Committee considered graduation timelines and student communication skills in a 1957 meeting. Materials from the Computer Users Advisory Council include correspondence about software copyright concerns during the rise of campus computing. The Committee on Radio Broadcasting outlined strategies for effectively using radio to serve South Dakota residents.

Other committees represented include the Curriculum and Veterans Enrollment Committee, which handled tuition claims and enrollment issues for veterans; the High School Contact Committee, which produced reports on outreach strategies and recruitment; and the ROTC Inspection and Military Field Day Committee, which planned field events in coordination with academic scheduling. A pamphlet from the Civilization Committee highlights a discussion series titled Dialogues in Higher Education that reflected on intellectual life and teaching philosophies.

This collection offers insight into the internal deliberations, planning efforts, and institutional concerns of mid-20th century campus committees. It documents the evolving priorities of a land-grant university (from student services and academic procedures to external communication and community outreach) during a period of significant social, technological, and administrative transformation.

University Center Records
UA 050.16 · Records · 2003-2009

This collection is composed of class schedules, student handbooks, advertisements, and a newspaper article titled USDSU plan to expand published by the Argus Leader. The class schedules likely reflect course offerings and institutional calendars for the University Center campus in Sioux Falls, while the student handbooks provide policies, academic regulations, and student resources. The included advertisement and article document public discourse surrounding the expansion of South Dakota State University's presence in Sioux Falls under the USDSU initiative, offering contextual insight into regional higher education planning and institutional development.

The collection provides a view of academic operations, student life, and institutional outreach associated with SDSU’s activities in Sioux Falls. It reflects broader discussions about access to public higher education in South Dakota and the state’s efforts to expand degree offerings beyond the Brookings campus. The inclusion of class schedules and student handbooks documents the services and structure of the University Center, while the press coverage adds a valuable public perspective on its expansion and strategic importance.

South Dakota State University. University Center
UA 050.15 · Records · 1957-1982

This collection is composed of summer session reports written by the Director of the Summer School, summarizing the activities of the summer session at South Dakota State University from 1957 to 1972. These reports include a statement of policies regarding the operation and function of the summer session, in addition to documenting administrative summaries, enrollment figures, program development, faculty involvement, and curriculum offerings. Also included is a Summer School biennial report, contributing to a longitudinal view of summer programming.

The reports provide insight into the planning, policy decisions, and academic trends shaping SDSU’s summer offerings during a 15-year period of institutional development. They serve as a valuable resource for understanding how summer sessions supported broader university goals, adapted to student needs, and contributed to year-round academic continuity.

South Dakota State University. Summer Session
UA 051.01 · Collection · 1979-1982

This collection is composed of administrative and planning records related to the Centennial Celebration of South Dakota State University, held in 1981. The material was generated by the Centennial Steering Committee and its sub-committees, and it documents the organization, activities, events, publications, and commemorative items produced for the centennial.

The administrative records include budgets, general correspondence, thank-you letters, departmental summaries, event planning documents, member lists, and official minutes. A significant portion of the collection is devoted to the activities of the various sub-committees, which coordinated specific events and functions such as Hobo Day, Commencement, Proclamations, Publicity, Souvenirs, the Harding Lecture, and a seminar honoring SDSU alumnus and Nobel laureate Theodore Schultz. The materials produced by these sub-committees typically include reports, plans, and internal documentation.

The collection also contains commemorative content such as a centennial poem, calendar of events, publications like The Messenger, Oakwood, and a special volume titled SDSU Centennial 1881–1981. Files of congratulatory letters from alumni, land-grant colleges, South Dakota organizations, and dignitaries highlight the broad support and recognition received during the celebration. Transcripts and audiocassettes of the commencement address, departmental histories, and a list of featured speakers offer further insight into the academic and ceremonial focus of the event.

Memorabilia housed in the collection includes paperweights, notepads, buttons, a commemorative coaster, and notarial seals, all reflecting the visual identity and branding of the centennial year.

This collection documents the centennial milestone of South Dakota State University, capturing both the institutional pride and the scale of community engagement that marked the 100th anniversary. It provides insight into university-wide planning, cross-departmental coordination, and alumni outreach, as well as commemorative traditions and symbolic gestures of recognition. The sub-committee structure reveals the breadth of campus participation and the diversity of celebratory programming, while the inclusion of published materials, congratulations, and keepsakes illustrates the external impact and cultural legacy of the centennial.

South Dakota State University. Centennial Steering Committee
UA 051.02 · Records · 1948-1955

This collection is composed of correspondence, form letters, and meeting minutes generated by the Committee on Scholarly Affairs at South Dakota State University. The records provide insight into the committee’s administrative functions and decision-making processes. The correspondence and form letters document communication between committee members and various academic units, while the minutes reflect the committee’s deliberations and actions regarding scholarly standards, academic policy, and curricular affairs.

The Committee on Scholarly Affairs shaped academic policy and maintaining scholarly standards within the university. These records are significant for understanding the governance of academic programs and the internal operations of faculty-led oversight committees. They may be useful for researchers studying institutional policy development, faculty governance, and the historical context of academic administration at SDSU.

South Dakota State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts. Committee on Scholarly Affairs
UA 051.04 · Records · 1959-1969

This collection is composed of reports produced by the Curriculum Evaluation Committee at South Dakota State University. Included are a final report detailing the committee’s findings and recommendations, an institutional profile of SDSU’s doctoral program as assessed by faculty and administration, and an institutional report prepared for accreditation evaluation. These documents reflect the committee’s role in reviewing academic programs, assessing institutional effectiveness, and supporting accreditation processes.

The records provide insight into SDSU’s curriculum assessment and strategic planning processes during periods of academic review and accreditation. The inclusion of reports concerning doctoral programs and institutional self-evaluation indicates the committee’s role in shaping graduate education and meeting external standards for institutional quality and accountability. These records serve as a resource for understanding how academic priorities, faculty input, and accreditation requirements influenced the university's academic development.

South Dakota State University. Curricula Evaluation Committee
UA 052.03 · Records · 1884-1895

This collection is composed of original records of the Dakota Agricultural College Board of Regents, documenting foundational governance activity between 1884 and 1895. It includes a ledger of official minutes detailing key decisions and organizational structures during the college's formative years. Topics covered include the selection of the first president, establishment of committees to oversee academic programs, finances, building construction, land management, and admissions. The ledger also records the development of early budgetary and curricular frameworks, with later entries incorporating presidential reports. A notation at the conclusion references a second volume of minutes, but its location is currently unknown.

Additionally, the collection contains a petition signed by students, requesting the dismissal of an English/History professor—offering early evidence of student engagement with faculty performance and governance.

These records offer critical insight into the early administrative and academic formation of South Dakota State University during its era as Dakota Agricultural College. The materials illustrate the priorities and challenges of a newly established land-grant institution in the late 19th century, highlighting student activism, governance practices, and institutional planning. The collection is especially significant for scholars interested in the history of higher education in South Dakota, land-grant college governance, and student-faculty relations in early American universities.

Dakota Agricultural College Board of Regents
SDSU Clipping Scrapbooks
UA 052.04 · Collection · 1897-1967

This is an artificial collection composed of 40 scrapbook boxes created from newspaper clippings spanning from 1894 to 1967, with some undated material. The collection is divided into athletic and general scrapbooks, each offering a unique perspective on South Dakota State University’s evolving identity and public presence.

The athletic scrapbooks, dated 1947 to 1967, primarily focus on SDSU sports and include clippings from football, basketball, track, and other athletic programs. These scrapbooks document the development of athletic teams, significant games, student-athlete achievements, and coach appointments. They reflect both the competitive spirit and institutional pride that defined mid-20th century collegiate athletics at SDSU.

The general scrapbooks encompass a broader range of topics, including university events, student activities, agricultural research, scientific advancements, campus infrastructure, and presidential and faculty accomplishments. The scrapbooks also feature clippings from across South Dakota that illustrate the university's influence beyond campus, highlighting its role in local and statewide initiatives. Materials are arranged chronologically rather than by subject. Notable volumes include those covering the early decades of the college (1894–1896, 1906–1912) and several that feature advertising and memorabilia. One volume even includes mixed-year content as late as 1951 interfiled with earlier clippings.

This collection documents SDSU’s public image and historical evolution as represented in South Dakota newspapers. It offers researchers insight into how the university's community and achievements were portrayed over time.

These scrapbooks serve as a rich source for examining the public narrative of South Dakota State University. They are valuable for understanding trends in athletics, education, research, and administration, as well as the university's relationship with the broader South Dakota community. Because the scrapbooks capture articles that are often not available in digital newspaper databases, they are especially useful for institutional history, journalism, and regional studies.