Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Title
Date(s)
- 1976-1978, 1987 (Creation)
Extent
0.21 linear feet (1 small document case)
Name of creator
Administrative history
The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists was established on campus in 1937. The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), originally founded as Sigma Delta Chi in 1901, is a broad-based journalism organization dedicated to upholding ethical standards, promoting the free practice of journalism, and protecting First Amendment rights. It also fosters the free flow of information essential to an informed public and works to inspire and educate future journalists.
Between 1940 and the mid-1970s, the SDSU chapter published The Bum and The Junior Bum. The Bum served as the official program for Jackrabbit football, primarily for Hobo Day, while The Junior Bum was later introduced as the official program for Jackrabbit basketball. Proceeds from these publications funded the chapter’s annual trip to the Sigma Delta Chi national convention.
In the mid-1970s, the SDSU Chapter of Sigma Delta Chi lost its sponsorship from the National Society of Professional Journalists. As a result, publishing The Bum and The Junior Bum was no longer financially viable for the organization. The Jackrabbit Sports Information Service, a unit within the Athletic Department, took over responsibility for producing these programs. Copies of The Bum are archived in the Jackrabbit Sports Information Services records [UA 46].
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
This collection consists of scrapbooks documenting the activities of the society. Due to their deteriorated condition, the scrapbooks were dismantled for preservation. Photocopies were made of most materials, while items in good condition were preserved.
In 1947, the society recognized excellence in journalism through newspaper awards, honoring publications for their achievements in reporting, community service, editorial writing, and layout design. Notable awards included superior recognition for Canova Herald in community service, Hot Springs Weekly Star in local public affairs reporting, and Madison Daily Leader in front-page makeup. Sioux Valley News received multiple distinctions, including superior rankings in local news and editorial writing. Other newspapers, such as Mobridge Tribune, Vermillion Plain Talk, and Wessington Spring Independent, were also commended for their contributions to journalism.
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use elements
Conditions governing access
This collection is open to researchers without restrictions.
The materials in the Archives do not circulate and may be used in-house only.
Researchers conducting extensive research are asked to make an advance appointment to access archival material. Please call or e-mail prior to visiting the collection and indicate as much detail as possible about a particular topic and intended use.
Physical access
Technical access
Conditions governing reproduction
South Dakota State University supports access to the materials, published and unpublished, in its collections. Nonetheless, access to some items may be restricted as a result of their fragile condition or by contractual agreements with donors.
Languages of the material
- English