Society of Professional Journalists. Sigma Delta Chi

• Sigma Delta Chi
• Society of Professional Journalists (U.S.)

The South Dakota State University Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists was started on campus in 1937. The Society of Professional Journalists is a broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1901 as Sigma Delta Chi, this society promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. In the mid-1970's, the SDSU Chapter of Sigma Delta Chi lost its sponsor to the National Society of Professional Journalists. It existed on campus until the 1980s. / Between 1940 and the mid-1970's, this society published The Bum and The Junior Bum. The Bum was the official program for Jackrabbit football and printed primarily for Hobo Day. The Junior Bum was eventually added as the official program for Jackrabbit basketball. Proceeds from the sale of these publications funded the society's annual trip to the Sigma Delta Chi national convention.

In the mid-1970's, the SDSU Chapter of Sigma Delta Chi lost its sponsor to the National Society of Professional Journalists. As a result, the publishing of The Bum and The Junior Bum was no longer a financial benefit for the society. The Jackrabbit Sports Information Service, a service provided by the Athletic Department, took over the responsibility of publishing these programs. The Bum is filed with the Jackrabbit Sports Information Services records [UA 46].

South Dakota State University Chapter