On Thursday, March 5, 2026, Facilities Services has contracted septic work to be completed in the basement of Woodburn. The contractor will be cutting concrete and removing debris through the north entrance of the building.

There will be noise related with the concrete cutting until 12:00 pm.

Please contact Facilities Services at 605-642-6244 if you have any questions.

Thank you for your patience during this work.

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Admissions Counselor
• Associate VP for Facilities Services
• Admissions Counselor - Rapid City
• Facilities Services Business Manager
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Accountant
• Program Assistant I - Sim Civics Grant
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Assistant Professor, Physics
• Assistant Professor, Graduate Studies
• Assistant Professor, Marketing
• Assistant Professor, Psychology

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

The Joy of Learning is ending after five summers of talks, demonstrations, tours, and performances. This series, held each summer at the Joy Center, was designed to bring the campus and community together through the simple joy of learning something new. Thank you to the Joy Center and College of LIberal Arts staff for making all this happen. And thank you so much to all the faculty who participated. You enriched the community and made BH look really, really good. 

Giving Days kicks off February 26-27 in honor of Founders Day! Hosted by the BHSU Foundation, this annual online day of giving brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the entire Yellowjacket community to support scholarships, colleges, teams, programs, clubs, organizations, and more.

Make your gift today at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/26JGB. Students and Employees also have the chance to win prizes or money during the event.

For contest details, visit www.bhsufoundation.org/jacketsgiveback or follow along on social media at www.instagram.com/bhsu_alumni/ and www.facebook.com/bhsualumni/.

Every gift—no matter the size—makes an impact. If you’re unable to give, you can still be part of Giving Days by sharing the link on social media and spreading the word!

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Admissions Counselor
• Associate VP for Facilities Services
• Admissions Counselor - Rapid City
• Academic & Event Technology Analyst
• Facilities Services Business Manager
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Accountant
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Assistant Professor, Physics
• Assistant Professor - Graduate Studies
• Assistant Professor - Marketing

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

The BHSU Alumni Association is sponsoring the 35th annual Spirit of BH Award and is requesting nominations for this year's recipient.  This award will be presented during the Student Volunteer Award Celebration on Monday, April 20th. 

On behalf of the Alumni Asociation, I am requesting your help to identify a student who has demonstrated an enthusiasm for learning while making significant contributions that reflect favorably on the university and larger community.  The selection committee is made up of faculty, staff, and board members.

Please use this nomination form.  Deadline to submit an entry for the Spirit of BH Award is Tuesday, March 10th. 

We are looking for volunteers to assist with this years Women in Science STEM conference May 13th 8:00-3:00.  Volunteers will receive a free lunch and will help with event directions, chaperoning a student group, help in the exhibit hall, or help with set up and tear down.  The conference is at BHSU and will be hosting over 800 middle schoolers to explore careers in STEM.  If interested contact Sydney.Haugland@bhsu.edu or call 605-642-6697.  

The HR office is pleased to offer another employee benefits fair! The Employee Benefits Trail - Mapping Out What Matters Most will take place on April 1 in the Jacket Legacy Room from 10AM - 1PM.

The South Dakota Retirement System, benefit providers, financial planners, and local community health and wellness providers will be available to meet with you regarding their products and services. Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Dakota and flex plan benefit providers will be available to discuss insurance options. This event is a great way to learn from the experts.  A drawing is planned for attending various booths and we have some exciting door prizes; you won’t want to miss out! Stay tuned for more information about our Benefits Fair!!

This event is open to all Black Hills State University and State of South Dakota employees and their spouses.

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to submit recycled artwork as a part of BHSU’s Earth Day celebration! Display of artwork and community voting for winners of the art competition will take place Saturday April 18^th from 11am to 2pm.

Artwork should be made primarily of repurposed /recycled/found materials. All work must be dropped off by April 15^th to Woodburn, Rm 302-A. Tags to attach to artwork with artist and artwork information will be available upon drop-off.

 Currently seeking volunteer judges for the 34th Annual Student Volunteer Awards Celebration (SVAC) at Black Hills State University.

SVAC is a long-standing campus tradition dedicated to recognizing and honoring the incredible work of our student organizations and student leaders throughout the year. It is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the impact our students make across campus and in the community.

Judges are needed for approximately 1–2 hours to review and evaluate student organization award applications. The applications will be sent to you electronically along with the judge sheet and no in person meetings are required for the orgaiznation category awards. Please note that if you a advise a orgaizantion that was nominatated you will not be judging that category. 

Applications will be sent to you on March 4th and I will need the resutls turned in by March 13th. 

If you are willing to serve as a judge, please let me know by emailing me at Jessie.Gramm@BHSU.edu . I would greatly appreciate your support in continuing this important tradition. 

Faculty, please encourage your students to submit their work in the annual Bellman Writing Awards. Information below:

The Bellman Awards for Excellence in Undergraduate Writing is a competition open to all students. Awards are given in three categories: Composition, Literature, and General Writing. All submissions must be work produced at BHSU during the specified year.

2026 Stewart Bellman Awards Submissions Due Friday, March 6 by 5:00 p.m.

• A student may submit up to three total essays (only one per category)
• The essays must have been submitted for a BHSU class between March 1, 2025, and March 1, 2026.
• The three categories are:

1. Composition I and II Essays (of any type for those classes)
2. Literature (a literary analysis from any class)
3. General Academic Writing (any discipline and type of essay)

Uploaded essays must include a title, but all other identifying information (names, courses, running headers) must be removed.

• Students will make their submissions below, no later than Friday, March 6, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. (MST) 
• Cash rewards and certificates are provided for the winners.
• Award ceremony and reception TBA.

Submissions can be made at https://www.bhsu.edu/academics/programs/english.html. For any questions, contact Matthew.Bauman@bhsu.edu 

BHSU Giving Day is a two-day, online celebration of generosity that brings together Yellow Jackets from around the world to support what they care about most. Throughout the event, donors can make gifts to the colleges, athletic teams, clubs, scholarships, and programs of their choice—helping create meaningful opportunities for current and future students. The giving days are filled with fun student and staff contests, along with chances to win prizes while making an impact. While the main event takes place over two exciting days, donations can be made online anytime during the month of February, making it easy for everyone to participate. Every gift—no matter the size—helps move BHSU forward and shows the power of the Yellow Jacket community. Be on the lookout for upcoming contests, spread the word, and help us reach our $200,000 goal this year!

GIVE HERE

This is an update to inform you that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be visiting BHSU on Wednesday, Feb. 18^th and BHSU-RC on Thursday, Feb 19^th to conduct their routine audit of international student records. Please note, this is a standard visit as part of our regular compliance process and is focused on ensuring that our records are up to date and accurate.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to the Director of International Relations, Kaitlin Palmer, for more information.

The BHSU Alumni Association is sponsoring the 35th annual Spirit of BH Award and is requesting nominations for this year's recipient.  This award will be presented during the Student Volunteer Awards Celebration on Monday, April 20th. 

On behalf of the Alumni Association, I am requesting your help to identify a student who has demonstrated an enthusiasm for learning while making significant contributions that reflect favorably on the university and larger community.  The selection committee is made up of faculty, staff, and board members.

Please use this nomination form.  Deadline to submit an entry for the Spirit of BH Award is Tuesday, March 10th. 

The BHSU Alumni Association is sponsoring the 35th annual Spirit of BH Award and is requesting nominations for this year's recipient.  This award will be presented during the Student Volunter Awards Celebration on Monday, April 20th. 

On behalf of the Alumni Association, I am requesting your help to identify a student who has demonstrated an enthusiasm for learning while making significant contributions that reflect favorably on the university and larger community.  The selection committee is made up of faculty, staff, and board members.

Please use this nomination form.  Deadline to submit an entry for the Spirit of BH Award is Tuesday, March 10th. 

BHSU will be hosting the Spearfish Middle School Science Fair on Wednesday, February 11 in the Young Center Field House.  We need volunteers to help judge the students' projects.  Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to judge.  No science expertise is needed to be a judge.  Please complete the form in this link to sign up: https://forms.gle/LFjJnewpVhCwBKmp7

Each judging session is 1 hour long.  Please plan to arrive at the field house 10-15 minutes before your first judging session to receive assignments and instructions.  You may sign up for multiple sessions.  The session schedule is as follows:

8:30-9:30 AM 6th Grade

9:30-10:30 AM 6th Grade

10:30-11:30 AM 8th Grade

11:30 AM-12:30 PM 8th Grade

12:30-1:30 PM 7th Grade

1:30-2:30 PM 7th Grade

Thank you for helping make the Science Fair a successful event!

Please join us on Mondays at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas 110.

(We're also looking for Geek Speakers for fall 2026, too, so please send a note my way if you're interested.

February 23: Dr. Lesleigh Owen: “Race: A Very Serious Fiction”
Spoiler: It’s All Made Up (and Why That Still Matters)

How many racial categories do we recognize in the U.S.? Isn’t “ethnicity” just the PC way to say “race”? What the heck does “Caucasian” mean, anyway? Join Dr. Lesleigh Owen as she hops feet first into the messiness, ridiculousness, and consequences of pretending we can divide human beings into distinct “racial” subcategories.

March 2: Dr. Katelyn Kelly: “The Girl at the Edge of the World: What Miyazaki Can Offer Us on Hope”

In a world increasingly unreal and precarious, many to turn to realism or pessimism to stay grounded. However, these frames rarely help us imagine alternatives. In this talk we’ll explore what it might mean to ground ourselves in hope instead. We will look to the animator Hayao Miyazaki and his use of an active demanding hope. His movies hold beauty and violence–ruin and small acts of care–and the young as a model of hope within a damaged world.

March 9: Rosalie Aslesen and Katherine Kemp: “Transitioning the Meier House and Property into the Spearfish Museum”

This Geek Speak presents the dream for a community-run Spearfish Museum and will introduce you to the people fundraising for the project. Hear about their vision for how this museum can contribute to the city of Spearfish and why it matters now.

The Spearfish Museum is an emerging project that will transform the historic Meier House and its property into a museum celebrating the stories, people, and ingenuity that shaped the Spearfish area. Its mission is to acquire, preserve, and share the historic, cultural, and innovative spirit of Spearfish. The goal is to create a museum that feels engaging, memorable, and meaningful for residents, students, and visitors.

The Museum Board’s fundraising mission is to build on the $1.5M+ bequest from Johanna Meier Della Vecchia by rallying community support and raising the matching funds needed to open the museum within the next 4–6 years.

Ultimately, the vision is simple: a museum built by the community, for the community—one that tells Spearfish’s story and strengthens its future.

March 23: Dr. Tina Van Kley:“Hitler's British Fangirl: Unity Mitford and the Appeals of Fascism”

Unity Mitford was an English debutante in the 1930s, the youngest daughter of a minor British aristocrat. Her name is not one that most Americans are likely to know, unless you’ve seen the recent UK tv series Outrageous (2025).  Her story is wild, however, and she is infamous for her commitment to fascism and, most notably, her obsession with Adolf Hitler. At one point, she was rumored to be his fiancée and is thought to have met with him more often than any other British person. Her diaries from 1935-1939 were published in January 2025 in The Daily Mail, and offer new insights into her pursuit of “the dear Fuhrer,” as she referred to Hitler. More broadly, her diaries and letters shed light on the appeal of fascism to young women at the time, and can help us better understand the resilience of this ideology, even after WWII.

March 30: Greg Strobel: “Slow Tourism and Human Powered Travel”

This Geek Speak will discuss the concept of 'Slow Tourism' and emphasize human powered travel as the method for the concept. It will provide insight into understanding the mindset, introduce different methods of travel, and highlight some fun examples from personal experience.

April 13: Dr. Courtney Huse Wika (Please note the change in date): “A Poet’s Guide to Foraging: Creating Found Poetry”

In honor of National Poetry Month, this hands-on workshop will introduce the art of Found Poetry. Together, we’ll practice two distinct approaches, foraging from texts that already exist: the overheard, the discarded, the official and the everyday, and the overlooked. We will test how meaning shifts when language is lifted, reordered, and reframed. No prior experience is required. Bring yourself (and maybe a friend!)—and a desire to create.

Questions? Contact Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

• Basics including: the Panopto support site, how to access Panopto through an LMS, the Panopto video library, video search
• Student-facing features including: search, notes, variable speed playback
• Creator tools including: How to upload existing videos; How to make a recording with video, audio, PowerPoint, and screen capture; How to edit Panopto videos (cut, add quizzes, more content);
• File management and monitoring tips including: How folders and videos are shared in Panopto; How to move or copy videos; How to access analytics and statistics within Panopto

When and where: Friday, Feb 13, 3pm-4pm (RSVP; Zoom Link: Join the Feb 13 Panopto Training)

Learn more about Panopto at BHSU here: Panopto learning tool is coming to BHSU

Many students have recently shared feeling anxious, overwhelmed or unsettled by the current political climate. For some, national events may bring up fears about the future, concerns about safety and belonging, anger, grief and a sense of uncertainty. These reactions are understandable. Please know you are not alone in experiencing these.

BHSU Student Health and Counseling Center wants to acknowledge that political stress can affect emotional well-being, concentration, sleep, motivation and relationships. These responses can be common during periods of uncertainty.

We encourage students to take care of themselves during this time by considering the following:

• Setting boundaries around distressing news and social media when possible.
• Staying connected to those who support you.
• Maintaining a daily schedule around sleep, meals and exercise.
• Engaging in grounding activities that help you feel safe and present.

If you find that anxiety, fear or distress is interfering with your overall functioning, support is available! BHSU Student Health and Counseling Center offers confidential services, including individual counseling, crisis support and group opportunities focused on coping with stress and uncertainty.

Our role is not to promote any political viewpoint, but to support your mental health and overall well-being. We are committed to providing a respectful and inclusive space where all students can seek help. If you would like to speak with a counselor or learn more about available resources, please contact BHSU Counseling Center at 605-642-6520 or visit our website at https://bhsu.edu/student-life/student-counseling.html

Wishing you well,

BHSU Student Health and Counseling

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Program Coordinator, SDCEO East
• Associate VP for Facilities Services
• Academic & Event Technology Analyst
• Program Assistant I
• Facilities Services Business Manager
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Assistant Professor, Physics

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

Please join us in welcoming Arika Beals to BHSU! Arika just began her role as Assistant Director, West River Health Science Center on February 5th. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will bring to our students and campus community!

This is a reminder that ALL employees are required to submit their monthly timesheets by the designated deadline each month to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing. A quick guide can be found on the experience portal: SDBOR Employee Dashboard Quick Guide - Timesheets. 

 If you supervise student employees, please be sure to clearly communicate timesheet submission deadlines to them and confirm their timesheets are accurate and submitted on time.

Thank you for your attention to this requirement and for your continued cooperation. Please reach out to the System Payroll Center (PayrollSSC@sdstate.edu) for assistance or questions.

Come support the Lakota Omniciye Indian Taco Sale fundraiser.

Tacos will be sold 02/04/2026 under the BHSU Student Union bookstore at 11 am until sold out.

All proceeds will support the annual Wacipi held in April 18th, 2026. Thank you!

Looking for support as you get started with exercise or have questions about gym equipment? The Exercise Is Medicine® on Campus internship program at BHSU is here to help! Led by Exercise Science students, this program puts classroom learning into action by offering free, one-on-one assistance in the gym.

What we can help with:

• Getting started with exercise

• Spotting

• Blood pressure and heart rate checks

• Equipment assistance

• General exercise questions

Available hours:

• Monday: 2:00–3:30 PM

• Tuesday: 8:00–11:00 AM & 3:00–7:00 PM

• Wednesday: 2:00–5:30 PM

• Thursday: 8:00 AM–1:00 PM

• Friday: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Follow @BHSU_EXERCISESCIENCE on Instagram for more information and updates.
Come see how exercise is medicine, right here on campus!

• Basics including: the Panopto support site, how to access Panopto through an LMS, the Panopto video library, video search
• Student-facing features including: search, notes, variable speed playback
• Creator tools including: How to upload existing videos; How to make a recording with video, audio, PowerPoint, and screen capture; How to edit Panopto videos (cut, add quizzes, more content);
• File management and monitoring tips including: How folders and videos are shared in Panopto; How to move or copy videos; How to access analytics and statistics within Panopto

Two options; both via Zoom.

1. Thursday, Feb 5, 2pm-3pm (RSVP; Zoom Link: Join the Feb 5 Panopto Training)
2. Friday, Feb 13, 3pm-4pm (RSVP; Zoom Link: Join the Feb 13 Panopto Training)

Learn more about Panopto at BHSU here: Panopto learning tool is coming to BHSU

Assistant Director, Taylor Phillips, will be departing the BHSU Office of Admissions team this week. She'll be moving on to a great new opportunity in the Rapid City area.
On behalf of the entire Admissions team, we want to thank Taylor for her years of dedicated service to BHSU - she has made a very real difference and will be greatly missed!

Please join us in the Admissions Office (Woodburn 107) from 3:00-4:00PM this Friday, February 6th to wish Taylor well and enjoy some light snacks.

Please join us on Mondays at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas 110.

(We're also looking for Geek Speakers for fall 2026, too, so please send a note my way if you're interested.

February 9: Ezekiel Bucks: “The History and Impact of the Typewriter: An Analogue History.” 

Come and look at some amazing relics from our analogue past! There will be real typewriters on display during this presentation to help connect with a piece of technology that used to rule the world but has become obsolete in less than a century. If you happen to own a typewriter, please bring it to show it off and to learn more about it! Let’s turn Jonas 110 into a LOUD, clicky, clacky newsroom! Together we’ll explore the development of the typewriter during the industrial revolution, its wide acceptance and standardization, and the way it affected society and culture in the twentieth century. The typewriter has had a substantial yet overlooked role in the development of digital technology we take for granted today.

February 23: Dr. Lesleigh Owen: “Race: A Very Serious Fiction”
Spoiler: It’s All Made Up (and Why That Still Matters)

How many racial categories do we recognize in the U.S.? Isn’t “ethnicity” just the PC way to say “race”? What the heck does “Caucasian” mean, anyway? Join Dr. Lesleigh Owen as she hops feet first into the messiness, ridiculousness, and consequences of pretending we can divide human beings into distinct “racial” subcategories.

March 2: Dr. Katelyn Kelly: “The Girl at the Edge of the World: What Miyazaki Can Offer Us on Hope”

In a world increasingly unreal and precarious, many to turn to realism or pessimism to stay grounded. However, these frames rarely help us imagine alternatives. In this talk we’ll explore what it might mean to ground ourselves in hope instead. We will look to the animator Hayao Miyazaki and his use of an active demanding hope. His movies hold beauty and violence–ruin and small acts of care–and the young as a model of hope within a damaged world.

March 9: Rosalie Aslesen and Katherine Kemp: “Transitioning the Meier House and Property into the Spearfish Museum”

This Geek Speak presents the dream for a community-run Spearfish Museum and will introduce you to the people fundraising for the project. Hear about their vision for how this museum can contribute to the city of Spearfish and why it matters now.

The Spearfish Museum is an emerging project that will transform the historic Meier House and its property into a museum celebrating the stories, people, and ingenuity that shaped the Spearfish area. Its mission is to acquire, preserve, and share the historic, cultural, and innovative spirit of Spearfish. The goal is to create a museum that feels engaging, memorable, and meaningful for residents, students, and visitors.

The Museum Board’s fundraising mission is to build on the $1.5M+ bequest from Johanna Meier Della Vecchia by rallying community support and raising the matching funds needed to open the museum within the next 4–6 years.

Ultimately, the vision is simple: a museum built by the community, for the community—one that tells Spearfish’s story and strengthens its future.

March 23: Dr. Tina Van Kley:“Hitler's British Fangirl: Unity Mitford and the Appeals of Fascism”

Unity Mitford was an English debutante in the 1930s, the youngest daughter of a minor British aristocrat. Her name is not one that most Americans are likely to know, unless you’ve seen the recent UK tv series Outrageous (2025).  Her story is wild, however, and she is infamous for her commitment to fascism and, most notably, her obsession with Adolf Hitler. At one point, she was rumored to be his fiancée and is thought to have met with him more often than any other British person. Her diaries from 1935-1939 were published in January 2025 in The Daily Mail, and offer new insights into her pursuit of “the dear Fuhrer,” as she referred to Hitler. More broadly, her diaries and letters shed light on the appeal of fascism to young women at the time, and can help us better understand the resilience of this ideology, even after WWII.

March 30: Greg Strobel: “Slow Tourism and Human Powered Travel”

This Geek Speak will discuss the concept of 'Slow Tourism' and emphasize human powered travel as the method for the concept. It will provide insight into understanding the mindset, introduce different methods of travel, and highlight some fun examples from personal experience.

April 13: Dr. Courtney Huse Wika (Please note the change in date): “A Poet’s Guide to Foraging: Creating Found Poetry”

In honor of National Poetry Month, this hands-on workshop will introduce the art of Found Poetry. Together, we’ll practice two distinct approaches, foraging from texts that already exist: the overheard, the discarded, the official and the everyday, and the overlooked. We will test how meaning shifts when language is lifted, reordered, and reframed. No prior experience is required. Bring yourself (and maybe a friend!)—and a desire to create.

Questions? Contact Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

Please join us in welcoming Hailey Broders and Daisy Ramirez to BHSU! Hailey began her role on January 26th as a Financial Aid Assistant, and Daisy started her position as Program Assistant I - Sim Civic Grant on the 26th as well! We’re excited to have them both on board and look forward to the positive impacts they will bring to our students and campus community!

Come support the Lakota Omniciye Indian Taco Sale fundraiser.

Tacos will be sold 02/04/2026 under the BHSU Student Union bookstore at 11 am until sold out.

All proceeds will support the annual Wacipi held in April 18th, 2026. Thank you!

BHSU Blood Drive! - All blood types are needed, you don't need to know your blood type. Bring a picture ID. Bring a friend and donate together!

WHEN: Wednesday, February 4th from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm 

WHERE: Jacket Legacy Room (3rd floor of Student Union)

Walk-ins are welcome, but you can schedule an appointment at www.Donors.Vitalant.org with Blood Drive Code: BHSU

BHSU will be hosting the Spearfish Middle School Science Fair on Wednesday, February 11 in the Young Center Field House.  We need volunteers to help judge the students' projects.  Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to judge.  No science expertise is needed to be a judge.  Please complete the form in this link to sign up: https://forms.gle/LFjJnewpVhCwBKmp7

Each judging session is 1 hour long.  Please plan to arrive at the field house 10-15 minutes before your first judging session to receive assignments and instructions.  You may sign up for multiple sessions.  The session schedule is as follows:

8:30-9:30 AM 6th Grade

9:30-10:30 AM 6th Grade

10:30-11:30 AM 8th Grade

11:30 AM-12:30 PM 8th Grade

12:30-1:30 PM 7th Grade

1:30-2:30 PM 7th Grade

Thank you for helping make the Science Fair a successful event!

Greetings.

Our new system for BHSU Disabilty Services, JacketAccommodate, is up and running.  At the following link you will find PDF handouts that will assist with accessing the system and signing accommodation letters.  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

We are hopeful this new system will streamline the process and allow for ease in accessing letters. I am here to assist with any questions and/or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to me directly. 

Our Facilities Services Grounds employees do an excellent job clearing snow and applying snow melt across campus. However, with the current cold temperatures and blowing snow, some of the walkways that have been treated may become slippery again.

We ask everyone to take personal responsibility by walking carefully, shuffling when needed, and wearing appropriate footwear. We have observed individuals walking quickly or wearing unsuitable footwear such as slippers, which increases the risk of slip and falls.

Thank you for helping to keep our campus safe.

Please contact Facilities Services at 642-6244 if you see any hazards that need attention. 

Jacket Scholarship Portal Scholarship Awarding Training

Scholarship season is upon us. It is nearly time to begin convening our scholarship committees and reviewing the applications we have received. If you are a member of a scholarship selection committee, I will be hosting training in the Student Union Crow Peak Conference Room as follows:

Dates & Times:     January 28 at 10:00am and 3:00pm

                              January 29 at 1:00pm and 2:00pm

                              January 30 at 10:00am

If you are unable to attend any of these gatherings, please contact me at x-6313 and we can make other arrangements. The process has not changed from last year so if you feel comfortable in using the Jacket Scholarship Portal you do not need to attend. If you have new committee members, please let me know and I can get them added to your committee.

As a reminder, we will begin awarding February 1 and have a completion / submission deadline of March 1. Please direct any questions to John Allred at john.allred@bhsu.edu or (605) 642-6313.

I look forward to working with you as we complete these awards!

We strive to create better writers. Rather than offering editing services, we work with students to strengthen all aspects of their writing process to help them gain confidence in writing and in the texts that they produce. With that in mind, we begin where they do: from the beginning stages of writing to final polishing.

Services for students

• One-on-one consultations to help at any point in the writing process: understanding the assignment, brainstorming, planning, outlining, reviewing, polishing
  • Face-to-face – walk-ins welcome, appointments encouraged: bhsu.mywconline.com
  • Online – typically for distance students; video-supported chat-room and work screen
  • eTutoring – student need not be present; written feedback only
  • OWL Table – students can work on essays in the WAC, with nearby help to answer quick questions
• Any discipline, any level, any genre – if it’s writing on campus, we can help
  • MLA, APA, Chicago, creative writing, business proposals, research support, etc.
• Additional personal, academic, and professional writing
  • Scholarship applications, graduate school applications, personal statements – we want BHSU students to succeed in all their writing endeavors

Services for faculty

• In-class visits: Let us introduce our services to your students every semester.
• Client Reports: following every appointment, the consultant composes a brief narrative of the session.
  • Students can indicate on their appointment to have the client report sent to the instructor as evidence of their attendance. The client report also provides the instructor valuable information about what was discussed and the students level of participation.
• Guest lectures: in-class workshops on writing skills and conventions: Grammar, sentence construction, paragraphs, thesis, topic sentences, incorporating outside sources, documenting sources, MLA, APA, Chicago Style. We can accommodate your needs for other writing issues too.
  • Excellent alternative to cancelling classes if you’re going to a conference or have any planned absence. We can fill in and use the class time productively.
• Access to style or documentation manuals for professional and scholarly work

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Program Coordinator, SDCEO East
• Associate VP for Facilities Services
• Military Education SErvices Specialist
• Assistant Football Coach
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Academic & Event Technology Analyst
• Program Assistant I
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Assistant Professor, Physics

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

BHSU Staff Senate currently has a vacant Senator At-Large seat and will have additional vacancies during our Spring elections. We are seeking staff members who are interested in serving on our senate and stepping into leadership.

We are especially interested in hearing from staff who may be interested in serving in an officer role and helping guide the work of Staff Senate in the coming year. Serving on Staff Senate is a great opportunity to represent staff voices, build institutional knowledge, and contribute to meaningful campus initiatives.

If you’re curious about serving or would like more information, please contact Maegan Detlefs at Maegan.Detlefs@BHSU.edu.

Please join us in welcoming Blake Dunfee and Todd Larson to BHSU! Blake began his role as SDCEO West Program Coordinator on January 20, 2026, and Todd started his position as Campus Security Specialist BHRC on January 20th as well. We’re excited to have them both on board and look forward to the positive impacts they will bring to our students and campus community!

The City of Spearfish is seeking your feedback!

You are invited to review the Draft Safety Action Plan, which analyzes crash data and incorporates public input to recommend strategies and projects aimed at improving safety for all transportation users in Spearfish.

Visit https://spearfishsafetyactionplan.com/project-resources to review the draft plan and submit your comments. Comment Period ends on January 31.

Thank you to the BHSU Student Senate and to the individuals who have already provided initial comments to help shape this project!

Welcome Back, BHSU Instructors and Staff!

Did you know that you have access to journal articles, books, and musical scores outside of what the E.Y. Berry Library – Learning Center offers?  Even the most well-equipped library can't afford to purchase all the materials needed for their academic community. Interlibrary Loan is a service that retrieves material from another library for free! Essentially, your research resources are limitless!  

For instructions on how to place an ILL request, visit: 

 (ILL) Interlibrary Loan LibGuide  

If you would like more information, contact: 

 ILL@bhsu.edu  

Have a great semester! 

Hello! My name is Dr. Alissa Call and I am co-chairing the 28^th Black Hills Research Symposium this year with Dr. Ashley Pfeiffer. Our committee is looking for reviewers for this year's symposium. The symposium will take place on April 1^st and April 2^nd. You can be a reviewer for an oral presentation in which you attend a 30-minute session and give the student presenter general feedback on their presentation. These sessions would run sometime between 8:00 am to 3:00 pm on April 1st. If that doesn’t work for you, you could also sign up to review during the poster session. That session runs from 3:00 - 5:00 pm also on April 1st. During the poster session, you would look at the students' posters and then write up a short feedback survey to assist them in developing their scholarship and presentation skills. All types of reviewers are welcome, and you do not need to be actively involved in any type of research or scholarly activity to be an effective reviewer. The students would love feedback from a variety of different people with varying backgrounds. Thank you so much for your consideration. The committee and the students greatly appreciate it!  If you are interested, please contact me at Alissa.Call@bhsu.edu   and provide your name, email, department, and area of expertise. Alternatively, you may complete the application here.

If being a reviewer does not work, I would like to also extend an invitation for you to attend this year's keynote speaker, Delia D’Ambra, on April 2nd at 4:00 pm. This will take place in Meier Hall. Delia D’Ambra is an investigative journalist, writer, and storyteller who has covered gripping stories for local, national, and international audiences for more than a decade. Her curiosity, ethics, and compassionate approach to reporting has set the standard in an industry that requires a precise balance of transparency and tenacity. Delia has created, hosted, or executive produced more than half a dozen chart-topping true-crime podcasts streamed by millions of listeners who find themselves drawn to detailed and heart- pounding interviews. Delia was born and raised in the Outer Banks of North Carolina and works wherever stories take her.

Please reach out to me with any questions about this process. I have been a reviewer for many years now and I can honestly say it is a fun process with minimal work involved. All that is required of you is to listen and enjoy hearing what the students have been up to. 

BHSU Blood Drive! - All blood types are needed, you don't need to know your blood type. Bring a picture ID. Bring a friend and donate together!

WHEN: Wednesday, February 4th from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm 

WHERE: Jacket Legacy Room (3rd floor of Student Union)

Walk-ins are welcome, but you can schedule an appointment at www.Donors.Vitalant.org with Blood Drive Code: BHSU

BHSU will be hosting the Spearfish Middle School Science Fair on Wednesday, February 11 in the Young Center Field House.  We need volunteers to help judge the students' projects.  Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to judge.  No science expertise is needed to be a judge.  Please complete the form in this link to sign up: https://forms.gle/LFjJnewpVhCwBKmp7 

Each judging session is 1 hour long.  Please plan to arrive at the field house 10-15 minutes before your first judging session to receive assignments and instructions.  You may sign up for multiple sessions.  The session schedule is as follows:

8:30-9:30 AM 6th Grade

9:30-10:30 AM 6th Grade

10:30-11:30 AM 8th Grade

11:30 AM-12:30 PM 8th Grade

12:30-1:30 PM 7th Grade

1:30-2:30 PM 7th Grade

Thank you for helping make the Science Fair a successful event!

Greetings.

Our new system for BHSU Disabilty Services, JacketAccommodate, is up and running.  At the following link you will find PDF handouts that will assist with accessing the system and signing accommodation letters.  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

We are hopeful this new system will streamline the process and allow for ease in accessing letters. I am here to assist with any questions and/or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to me directly. 

The call for nominations is now open for the 34th Annual Student Volunteer Awards Celebration!

This annual celebration honors outstanding student leaders and organizations for their dedication, service, and impact throughout the year. We encourage you to nominate individuals and groups whose hard work and commitment to service deserve recognition.

Don’t miss the opportunity to highlight the incredible contributions of our student volunteers. The nomination form can be found here.
Submit your nominations by January 30th 

For nomination details and submission information, visit the SVAC page located on the website .

Thank you for helping us celebrate our students’ achievements!

Please remind students to complete the Scholarship Application before the February 1 submission deadline. 

The application is available in the Jacket Scholarship Portal and students should complete the Continuing Student Application. All students will be considered for scholarships, but by completing the application they may be eligible for additional awards based on their personal demographics, majors, and interests. 

Any questions should be directed to the Financial Aid Office at 605.642.6145.

Chris Combs is the 2025 Sanford Underground Research Facility Artist-in-Residence (SURF AiR). His exhibition, Desperate Remedy/Little Ones, first exhibited at Black Hills State University (BHSU), is traveling to the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDSMT). The SURF AiR Program is a collaborative partnership between SURF and BHSU. 

Tuesday, January 20, 6:00 PM
STEAM Café Lecture at Hay Camp Brewing, Rapid City, SD
“The Art of the Invisible: Making Interactive Sculptures About Neutrinos”

Friday, January 23
1:00–2:00 PM — Artist Talk
4:30–6:00 PM — Exhibition Opening Reception
Desperate Remedy/Little Ones (SDSMT)
APEX Gallery, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, Rapid City, SD

Geek Speak is returning in February with a fabulous lineup! 

Please join us on Mondays at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas 110.

(We're also looking for Geek Speakers for fall 2026, too, so please send a note my way if you're interested.)

February 2: Yukari Tadano

“Why Is Japan’s Suicide Rate So High?”

This speech explores the social and cultural factors behind Japan’s historically high suicide rate, including work culture, social expectations, stigma around mental health, and limited access to support. By examining these structural pressures, it aims to promote understanding rather than stereotypes.

February 9: Ezekiel Bucks

“The History and Impact of the Typewriter: An Analogue History.” 

Come and look at some amazing relics from our analogue past! There will be real typewriters on display during this presentation to help connect with a piece of technology that used to rule the world but has become obsolete in less than a century. If you happen to own a typewriter, please bring it to show it off and to learn more about it! Let’s turn Jonas 110 into a LOUD, clicky, clacky newsroom! Together we’ll explore the development of the typewriter during the industrial revolution, its wide acceptance and standardization, and the way it effected society and culture in the twentieth century. The typewriter has had a substantial yet overlooked role in the development of digital technology we take for granted today.

February 23: Dr. Lesleigh Owen

“Race: A Very Serious Fiction”
Spoiler: It’s All Made Up (and Why That Still Matters)

How many racial categories do we recognize in the U.S.? Isn’t “ethnicity” just the PC way to say “race”? What the heck does “Caucasian” mean, anyway? Join Dr. Lesleigh Owen as she hops feetfirst into the messiness, ridiculousness, and consequences of pretending we can divide human beings into distinct “racial” subcategories.

March 2: Dr. Katelyn Kelly

“The Girl at the Edge of the World: What Miyazaki Can Offer Us on Hope”

In a world increasingly unreal and precarious, many to turn to realism or pessimism to stay grounded. However, these frames rarely help us imagine alternatives. In this talk we’ll explore what it might mean to ground ourselves in hope instead. We will look to the animator Hayao Miyazaki and his use of an active demanding hope. His movies hold beauty and violence–ruin and small acts of care–and the young as a model of hope within a damaged world.

March 9: Rosalie Aslesen and Katherine Kemp

“Transitioning the Meier House and Property into the Spearfish Museum”

This Geek Speak presents the dream for a community-run Spearfish Museum and will introduce you to the people fundraising for the project. Hear about their vision for how this museum can contribute to the city of Spearfish and why it matters now.

The Spearfish Museum is an emerging project that will transform the historic Meier House and its property into a museum celebrating the stories, people, and ingenuity that shaped the Spearfish area. Its mission is to acquire, preserve, and share the historic, cultural, and innovative spirit of Spearfish. The goal is to create a museum that feels engaging, memorable, and meaningful for residents, students, and visitors.

The Museum Board’s fundraising mission is to build on the $1.5M+ bequest from Johanna Meier DellaVecchia by rallying community support and raising the matching funds needed to open the museum within the next 4–6 years.

Ultimately, the vision is simple: a museum built by the community, for the community—one that tells Spearfish’s story and strengthens its future.

March 23: Dr. Tina Van Kley

“Hitler's British Fangirl: Unity Mitford and the Appeals of Fascism”

Unity Mitford was an English debutante in the 1930s, the youngest daughter of a minor British aristocrat. Her name is not one that most Americans are likely to know, unless you’ve seen the recent UK tv series Outrageous (2025).  Her story is wild, however, and she is infamous for her commitment to fascism and, most notably, her obsession with Adolf Hitler. At one point, she was rumored to be his fiancée and is thought to have met with him more often than any other British person. Her diaries from 1935-1939 were published in January 2025 in The Daily Mail, and offer new insights into her pursuit of “the dear Fuhrer,” as she referred to Hitler. More broadly, her diaries and letters shed light on the appeal of fascism to young women at the time, and can help us better understand the resilience of this ideology, even after WWII.

March 30: Greg Strobel

“Slow Tourism and Human Powered Travel”

This Geek Speak will discuss the concept of 'Slow Tourism' and emphasize human powered travel as the method for the concept. It will provide insight into understanding the mindset, introduce different methods of travel, and highlight some fun examples from personal experience.

April 13: Dr. Courtney Huse Wika (Please note the change in date)

“A Poet’s Guide to Foraging: Creating Found Poetry”

In honor of National Poetry Month, this hands-on workshop will introduce the art of Found Poetry. Together, we’ll practice two distinct approaches, foraging from texts that already exist: the overheard, the discarded, the official and the everyday, and the overlooked. We will test how meaning shifts when language is lifted, reordered, and reframed. No prior experience is required. Bring yourself (and maybe a friend!)—and a desire to create.

Questions? Contact Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

When: Thursday, Jan 15, 8am-9:15am

Where: JA 103A (RSVP for Online Option)

RSVP for this event

Description: Join this workshop to learn about a new platform available to BHSU faculty, Panopto. Panopto offers a convenient way to create, edit, and host original video for teaching. It fully integrates with D2L, allowing easy viewing, tracking of student video completion, and even interactive quizzes within videos (all integrated with D2L grading). 

In this workshop, experience Panopto tools as a student, see what managing Panopto content on D2L looks like as an instructor, and get started creating content using the platform. We'll also explore different instructional uses for video content to help you consider what adoption might make the biggest impact on your courses.

Note: Please bring a laptop if you attend in person

Hosts: Nick Van Kley, Anne Stevens, Prasanthi Pallapu

Remembering Spearfish: 150 Years of Community

Please join us for a public reception of a special exhibition celebrating 150 years of Spearfish community life on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 5:00–6:30 PM at the Ruddell Gallery, located on the third floor of the Student Union.

This exhibition features historic photographs of Spearfish drawn from the collections of the Leland D. Case Library for Western Historical Studies. The images showcase the people, places, and everyday moments that shaped the town’s identity, highlighting themes of resilience, ingenuity, and the unique character that has defined the northern hills across generations. Together, these photographs invite viewers to reflect on the evolving story of Spearfish and the shared history that continues to connect its past and present. Serving as both a tribute to the town’s heritage and an invitation to imagine its next chapter, this visual archive offers a meaningful glimpse into the roots of our community. The reception is free and open to the public. We hope you will join us in celebrating Spearfish’s rich history and enduring spirit.

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate!!    This is a new software that will be ustilized to manage and negotaite students disabilty accommodations.  

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.  We are in this togehter, we will make this transition to the new system a seemless and possible for Faculty and Students.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining this semester, Spring 2026.

This is a reminder that ALL employees are required to submit their monthly timesheets by the designated deadline each month to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing. A quick guide can be found on the experience portal: SDBOR Employee Dashboard Quick Guide - Timesheets. 

 If you supervise student employees, please be sure to clearly communicate timesheet submission deadlines to them and confirm their timesheets are accurate and submitted on time.

Thank you for your attention to this requirement and for your continued cooperation. Please reach out to the System Payroll Center (PayrollSSC@sdstate.edu) for assistance or questions.

Geek Speak is returning in February with a fabulous lineup! 

Please join us on Mondays at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas 110.

(We're also looking for Geek Speakers for fall 2026, too, so please send a note my way if you're interested.)

February 2: Yukari Tadano

“Why Is Japan’s Suicide Rate So High?”

This speech explores the social and cultural factors behind Japan’s historically high suicide rate, including work culture, social expectations, stigma around mental health, and limited access to support. By examining these structural pressures, it aims to promote understanding rather than stereotypes.

February 9: Ezekiel Bucks

“The History and Impact of the Typewriter: An Analogue History.” 

Come and look at some amazing relics from our analogue past! There will be real typewriters on display during this presentation to help connect with a piece of technology that used to rule the world but has become obsolete in less than a century. If you happen to own a typewriter, please bring it to show it off and to learn more about it! Let’s turn Jonas 110 into a LOUD, clicky, clacky newsroom! Together we’ll explore the development of the typewriter during the industrial revolution, its wide acceptance and standardization, and the way it effected society and culture in the twentieth century. The typewriter has had a substantial yet overlooked role in the development of digital technology we take for granted today.

February 23: Dr. Lesleigh Owen

“Race: A Very Serious Fiction”
Spoiler: It’s All Made Up (and Why That Still Matters)

How many racial categories do we recognize in the U.S.? Isn’t “ethnicity” just the PC way to say “race”? What the heck does “Caucasian” mean, anyway? Join Dr. Lesleigh Owen as she hops feetfirst into the messiness, ridiculousness, and consequences of pretending we can divide human beings into distinct “racial” subcategories.

March 2: Dr. Katelyn Kelly

“The Girl at the Edge of the World: What Miyazaki Can Offer Us on Hope”

In a world increasingly unreal and precarious, many to turn to realism or pessimism to stay grounded. However, these frames rarely help us imagine alternatives. In this talk we’ll explore what it might mean to ground ourselves in hope instead. We will look to the animator Hayao Miyazaki and his use of an active demanding hope. His movies hold beauty and violence–ruin and small acts of care–and the young as a model of hope within a damaged world.

March 9: Rosalie Aslesen and Katherine Kemp

“Transitioning the Meier House and Property into the Spearfish Museum”

This Geek Speak presents the dream for a community-run Spearfish Museum and will introduce you to the people fundraising for the project. Hear about their vision for how this museum can contribute to the city of Spearfish and why it matters now.

The Spearfish Museum is an emerging project that will transform the historic Meier House and its property into a museum celebrating the stories, people, and ingenuity that shaped the Spearfish area. Its mission is to acquire, preserve, and share the historic, cultural, and innovative spirit of Spearfish. The goal is to create a museum that feels engaging, memorable, and meaningful for residents, students, and visitors.

The Museum Board’s fundraising mission is to build on the $1.5M+ bequest from Johanna Meier DellaVecchia by rallying community support and raising the matching funds needed to open the museum within the next 4–6 years.

Ultimately, the vision is simple: a museum built by the community, for the community—one that tells Spearfish’s story and strengthens its future.

March 23: Dr. Tina Van Kley

“Hitler's British Fangirl: Unity Mitford and the Appeals of Fascism”

Unity Mitford was an English debutante in the 1930s, the youngest daughter of a minor British aristocrat. Her name is not one that most Americans are likely to know, unless you’ve seen the recent UK tv series Outrageous (2025).  Her story is wild, however, and she is infamous for her commitment to fascism and, most notably, her obsession with Adolf Hitler. At one point, she was rumored to be his fiancée and is thought to have met with him more often than any other British person. Her diaries from 1935-1939 were published in January 2025 in The Daily Mail, and offer new insights into her pursuit of “the dear Fuhrer,” as she referred to Hitler. More broadly, her diaries and letters shed light on the appeal of fascism to young women at the time, and can help us better understand the resilience of this ideology, even after WWII.

March 30: Greg Strobel

“Slow Tourism and Human Powered Travel”

This Geek Speak will discuss the concept of 'Slow Tourism' and emphasize human powered travel as the method for the concept. It will provide insight into understanding the mindset, introduce different methods of travel, and highlight some fun examples from personal experience.

April 6: Dr. Courtney Huse Wika

“A Poet’s Guide to Foraging: Creating Found Poetry”

In honor of National Poetry Month, this hands-on workshop will introduce the art of Found Poetry. Together, we’ll practice two distinct approaches, foraging from texts that already exist: the overheard, the discarded, the official and the everyday, and the overlooked. We will test how meaning shifts when language is lifted, reordered, and reframed. No prior experience is required. Bring yourself (and maybe a friend!)—and a desire to create.

Questions? Contact Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu 

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of Spearfish (1876-2026), the Leland D. Case Library has created a photo exhibit highlighting the first 75 years of Spearfish's history. "Remembering Spearfish: 150 Years of Community" is on display at the Ruddell Gallery through January 23, 2026. All are welcome to attend the closing reception for the exhibit, which will be held on Tuesday, January 20th from 5 - 6:30 p.m. For additional information visit: https://libguides.bhsu.edu/Spearfish150 

The Writing Assistance Center would love the opportunity to visit your class and tell your students about what we do and how we can help them. This presentation takes less than 10 minutes and can be done at the beginning or end of a class. We work with students in all academic fields and can assist them in any kind of writing project. 

Additional ways the WAC can assist faculty include:

• Client Reports: following every appointment, the consultant composes a brief narrative of the session.
  • Students can indicate on their appointment to have the client report sent to the instructor as evidence of their attendance. The client report also provides the instructor valuable information about what was discussed and the student's level of participation.
• Guest lectures: in-class workshops on writing skills and conventions: Grammar, sentence construction, paragraphs, thesis, topic sentences, incorporating outside sources, documenting sources, MLA, APA, Chicago Style. We can accommodate your needs for other writing issues too.
  • Excellent alternative to cancelling classes if you’re going to a conference or have any planned absence. We can fill in and use the class time productively.
• Access to style or documentation manuals for professional and scholarly work.

Please email Matthew.Bauman@bhsu.edu to make an in-class visit or for any other questions. Have a great semester!

Many get phone calls asking if the VITA program will be offered this year.  We are excited to say “Yes”!

Please give the phone number (605) 206-3814 and/or email:  BlackHillsStateVITA@gmail.com

to schedule an appointment.

Thank you!

It is with sadness and a heavy heart that BHSU shares the loss of one of our students, Sean Goodyear, who passed away last week unexpectedly.  Sean grew up in Texas and then moved to the Black Hills several years ago.  This past spring, Sean graduated from BHSU with a degree in Outdoor Education.  While taking an Adaptive PE class, Sean found his passion for working with folks with disabilities when he volunteered at Northern Hills Training Center.  This new found passion led Sean to continue his studies at BHSU as a masters student studying Special Education.  He was a dedicated and engaged student in class as well as in discussions with professors.  When he wasn’t studying, he loved spending time in the outdoors and working with local youth doing ninja-style obstacle course-based learning and training. 

The family is planning a private service and celebration of life for Sean.  Here is the obituary link: Sean Thomas Goodyear Obituary January 4, 2026 - Kinkade Funeral Chapel  We ask that you keep the Goodyear Family in your thoughts and prayers.     

Please note, Student Health & Counseling Services is available should you need to process this information.  You can call 605-642-6520 or stop by the office, located in the lower level of the Student Union, to set up an appointment to talk. 

The new minimum wage of $11.85 was effective January 1, 2026. We have now updated the Student Employment Guidelines document to reflect the new pay structures. Please see Article - Supervisor Guide to Student... for more information.

If you have any questions reagarding this, email BHSUHumanResources@bhsu.edu.

Plans are underway for BHSU's  6th Annual Joy of Learning Series. The goal of this program is simply to bring the campus and community together through the joy of learning new things. We will offer twenty sessions--talks, presentations, performances, and tours. Topics from previous summers have included the origins of English, beer making, finding local mushooms, Black Hills geology, filmmaking, bird migration, cancer research, and uses of AI for composing music. We also include sessions with practical information on topics of general interest like navigating the health care system and how weight loss drugs work, for example.

All sessions are free and open to the public.This year's event will be June 24-26 and 29-30. 

If you have an idea for a presentation you could give--or if you have a topic you want to see covered--please contact Amy Fuqua, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts:  Amy.Fuqua@BHSU.edu 

The Send-a-Thanks platform was developed for employees to be able to send a special thank you, or kudos, to one of their colleagues across campus.  Employees who receive a send-a-thanks are entered in to a monthly drawing for either a Bookstore gift card or a mug and gift card courtesy of Einstein's. We would like to give a shout out to the recipients who have received a kudos! Recent recipients were:

If you would like to send a special recognition to someone please click the quick link on the main e-Update email.
Thank you all for everything you do!

There is now an article in Jacekt Connect under the Business Office section, named as Certificate of Coverage of Insurance Information Sheet.  When you have an off campus event and you are requred to have a Certificate of Insurance for the venue you are going to use, you need to click on the link in this article.  It will take you to the template that you need to fill out to get a Certificate of Insurance.  When this form is filled out it will be sent to the state and they will issue a Certificate of Insurance.

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate!!    This is a new software that will be ustilized to manage and negotaite students disabilty accommodations.  

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.  We are in this togehter, we will make this transition to the new system a seemless and possible for Faculty and Students.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining this semester, Spring 2026.

I have been asked to share this information:

Dear staff, faculty, student organization/club faculty advisors, athletic coaches, etc.

If you are interested in forming a team for the 2026 Spearfish Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics South Dakota, which is set for Saturday, February 21^st at the Spearfish Rec Center,  please click “Plunge” at https://charity.pledgeit.org/spearfishpp26.  Individuals can register (as an individual or to create a team) to get started on fundraising before the big day.  If you have questions please contact:

Kaija Swisher, Public Safety Records Manager

Department of Public Safety

k.swisher@spearfish.gov

Phone: (605) 642-1300

Black HIlls State University will be hosting a Military Appreciation Day event on Saturday, January 17th for our Active Military and Veterans.  You're invited to come out to watch our BHSU Basketball team take on Ft Lewis College.  The Womens game starts at 1 PM, and the Mens at 3 PM (at the Young Center--Spearfish Campus).   If you are Active military or a Veteran you will get (3) three free tickets to the game, one for yourself and two extra tickets for guests.  Just be sure to let the ticket agent at the door know your status (Active Duty or Veteran).

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate!!    This is a new software that will be ustilized to manage and negotaite students disabilty accommodations.  

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.  We are in this togehter, we will make this transition to the new system a seemless and possible for Faculty and Students.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining this semester, Spring 2026.

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of Spearfish (1876-2026), the Leland D. Case Library has created a photo exhibit highlighting the first 75 years of Spearfish's history. "Remembering Spearfish: 150 Years of Community" is on display at the Ruddell Gallery through January 23, 2026. Gallery hours this week are: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For additional information on the exhibit visit: https://libguides.bhsu.edu/Spearfish150

I have been asked to share this information:

Dear staff, faculty, student organization/club faculty advisors, athletic coaches, etc.

If you are interested in forming a team for the 2026 Spearfish Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics South Dakota, which is set for Saturday, February 21^st at the Spearfish Rec Center,  please click “Plunge” at https://charity.pledgeit.org/spearfishpp26.  Individuals can register (as an individual or to create a team) to get started on fundraising before the big day.  If you have questions please contact:

Kaija Swisher, Public Safety Records Manager

Department of Public Safety

k.swisher@spearfish.gov)

Phone: (605) 642-1300

https://bhrodeo26.givesmart.com/

February 7th, 2026

Spearfish Holiday Inn & Convention Center

Cowboys & Candlelight

Staff & Faculty Headshot Event: January 6, 2026

Professional headshots will be available to staff and faculty on Monday, January 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Photography Studio (Library Basement). You may sign up in advance or walk in during the event window.

Additional details and signup information can be found in Jacket Connect:
https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=743 

With 2025 nearing an end, HR is thinking about tax season!  You have the capability to receive your tax documents electronically and get them much quicker than through the mail. This process provides a secure and efficient method of delivery eliminating delays and errors from the traditional postal system, earlier access to W-2 and 1095-C information, and access to print additional copies at your convenience.

Signing Up is Easy!

1. Log into the Experience Portal: Home - Ellucian Experience.
2. Go to your Employee Dashboard: Employee Dashboard.
3. Find the Electronic Regulatory Consent located in Taxes under the Pay Information.
4. Read the Electronic Regulatory Consent information and click the box under My Choice>Consent to receive W-2 electronically and Consent to receive 1095-C electronically.
5. Click the Submit button.
6. Upon successful completion, a green check mark and the statement "Electronic Statement consent was submitted successfully" indicate you’re finished.

If you have any questions on how to sign up don't hesitate to contact your Human Resources office at 605-642-6549.

Thank you!

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Director, West River Health Science Center
• Program Coordinator, SDCEO East
• Assistant Director, Facilities Planning & Management
• Assistant Director, Facilities Maintenance & Energy
• Associate VP for Facilities Services
• Assistant Football Coach
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Program Assistant I, Sim Civics Grant
• Academic & Event Technology Analyst
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Assistant Professor, Physics

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

Deadline is December 31st! Last day to register and have one year of free access to Skill Forward!

Dive into FREE professional development classes from prestigious universities and gain professional certifications through the Skill Forward program. By registering for the platform and completing one course before December 31st, you will automatically be entered to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card. 10 winners will be chosen! 

Sample Courses & Certificates include these and more:  

• Resume, Networking & Interviewing Skills  

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths  

• Personal Financial Planning  

• AI for Beginners or Prompt Engineering 

• Career Networking: Build a Social Media Presence 

• Public Speaking 

• Communication Skills and Teamwork 

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths 

• Business Communication 

• Excel for Beginners or Analyzing Data with Excel 

• More! 

Three easy steps to access the platform: 

1. Visit http://www.BHSU.edu/sdceo/SkillForward and register (this redirects to a Verizon branded page) before December 31 

1. Watch for an activation email (sent by a real person, so it may minutes … or could take a day or two) 

1. Click the link to activate and start exploring the platform. Once activated, you’ll have free access to the platform for one full year and may take as many courses or certificates as you wish. 

If you have questions, reach out to Ashley Wingert at Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu or Elizabeth Freer at Elizabeth.Freer@bhsu.edu.  

It is that time of year again when I am looking for volunteers to be personal training clients for my senior Exercise Science class. This is a free program that includes testing your health and wellness through a wide variety of assessments and using the knowledge gained from those tests to create an individualized program just for you. The requirement to participate is being willing to meet with your student one day a week; however, the time and day are flexible to your schedule. The program runs through the spring 2026 semester. I have a large class this semester, so I have lots of spots to fill. Please email me if you are interested in this opportunity. I appreciate the assistance in helping me create hands-on learning for my students. 

Email Ashley Pfeiffer: Ashley.Pfeiffer@bhsu.edu 

Dive into FREE professional development classes from prestigious universities and gain professional certifications through the Skill Forward program. By registering for the platform and completing one course before December 31st, you will automatically be entered to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card. 10 winners will be chosen! 

Sample Courses & Certificates include these and more:  

• Resume, Networking & Interviewing Skills  

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths  

• Personal Financial Planning  

• AI for Beginners or Prompt Engineering 

• Career Networking: Build a Social Media Presence 

• Public Speaking 

• Communication Skills and Teamwork 

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths 

• Business Communication 

• Excel for Beginners or Analyzing Data with Excel 

• More! 

Three easy steps to access the platform: 

1. Visit http://www.BHSU.edu/sdceo/SkillForward and register (this redirects to a Verizon branded page) before December 31 

1. Watch for an activation email (sent by a real person, so it may minutes … or could take a day or two) 

1. Click the link to activate and start exploring the platform. Once activated, you’ll have free access to the platform for one full year and may take as many courses or certificates as you wish. 

If you have questions, reach out to Ashley Wingert at Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu or Elizabeth Freer at Elizabeth.Freer@bhsu.edu.  

Please join us in welcoming Jordan Cooper to BHSU! Jordan just began his role as a Senior Buiilding Maintenance Worker on December 15, 2025. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our students and campus community!

Final grades are due by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, December 22 and can be entered via D2L or Banner Self-Service.  Instructions for both options have been sent directly to all faculty email.  Questions about D2L grading should be referred to Anne.Stevens@bhsu.edu.  Questions about Banner Self-Service grading should be referrred to April.Meeker@bhsu.edu. 

Submissions are now open! Every year, BHSU hosts the Bellman Awards for Excellence in Undergraduate Writing. Any writing from any class can be submitted to the competition under the following categories:

1. Composition I and II (any type of essay from these classes)
2. Literature (a literary analysis from any course)
3. General Academic Writing (any discipline and type of essay)

Only one essay per category is allowed. The same essay may not be submitted to multiple categories. The essays must have been turned in for a class from between March 1, 2025, and March 1, 2026.The submission period will remain open until March 6.

Uploaded essays must include a title, but all other identifying information (names, courses, running headers) must be removed from the document.

Judging will commence following the March 6 deadline. For more information and to submit your work, visit https://www.bhsu.edu/academics/programs/english.html. For any questions, please email Matthew.Bauman@bhsu.edu.

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Director, Facilities Planning & Management
• Assistant Director, West River Health Science Center
• Program Coordinator, SDCEO East
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Financial Aid Assistant
• Program Assistant I, Sim Civics Grant
• Academic & Event Technology Analyst
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Assistant Professor, Physics

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

🎉 Raffle Winner Announcement!

Congratulations to Amy Fuqua for winning the Staff Senate 50/50 raffle! The winning ticket was drawn on December 9th by Justin Nauta.

Amy’s share of the pot was $116.50, but in a generous turn of events, she has chosen to donate the full amount back to the Staff Senate to support our future initiatives!

Please join us in congratulating Amy and thanking her for her support!

Please join the College of Education's faculty and staff December 16 from 1:00-3:00 in Jonas 204 to wish Dawn well on her move and new job! Everyone on campus is invited and light refreshments will be served. 

Kickstart your tourism career at the South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Jan 20–22, 2026 in Pierre. $75 student registration includes a free mentor pairing with an industry pro—1 in 4 students leaves with an internship or job offer. Visit www.southdakotatourismconference.com for more.

📢 Staff Senate Announcement

Mark your calendars for December 17 at 10:00 AM for our December meeting!

Join us in the Trump Room or on Teams with the link below.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZGNhMjIwNDYtYTJjOS00MDk3LWJiZjAtNmU5MzAxMGZjZGI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%229bfcf28b-3a11-4fd7-a813-8f519cdb0db2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%220fce668e-e6d5-45bb-8303-5fc95c14bb4c%22%7d

✨We will be joined by special guest President Elliott. All staff are encouraged to attend!✨

Dive into FREE professional development classes from prestigious universities and gain professional certifications through the Skill Forward program. By registering for the platform and completing one course before December 31st, you will automatically be entered to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card. 10 winners will be chosen! 

Sample Courses & Certificates include these and more:  

• Resume, Networking & Interviewing Skills  

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths  

• Personal Financial Planning  

• AI for Beginners or Prompt Engineering 

• Career Networking: Build a Social Media Presence 

• Public Speaking 

• Communication Skills and Teamwork 

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths 

• Business Communication 

• Excel for Beginners or Analyzing Data with Excel 

• More! 

Three easy steps to access the platform: 

1. Visit http://www.BHSU.edu/sdceo/SkillForward and register (this redirects to a Verizon branded page) before December 31 

1. Watch for an activation email (sent by a real person, so it may minutes … or could take a day or two) 

1. Click the link to activate and start exploring the platform. Once activated, you’ll have free access to the platform for one full year and may take as many courses or certificates as you wish. 

If you have questions, reach out to Ashley Wingert at Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu or Elizabeth Freer at Elizabeth.Freer@bhsu.edu.  

Dear colleagues,

Our campus community thrives on curiosity, and so the Geek Speak lecture series is looking for you, our faculty and staff: the quietly brilliant, the joyfully eccentric, the holders of niche and geek knowledge and bold ideas.

Have a Geekdom passion project that your friends are tired of hearing about?
Perfect. We’ll listen enthusiastically.

Working on conference papers, research (past or present), or that long-simmering idea?
Bring it. Messy, polished, experimental—we love it all.

Want to assemble a lively discussion panel?
We adore a good debate

If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I wish more people knew how to do this because it would bring them joy/improve their lives/save them time or money,” consider it a sign. Bring us the thrill of learning-by-doing. Think: zine-making, small-scale experiments, craft demos, improv exercises, coding puzzles, game design, Excel magic, beadwork, watercolor…

Your brilliance deserves an audience…and we’re not above begging.

Interested? Have questions or ideas?  Drop me a note:  Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu 

With 2025 nearing an end, HR is thinking about tax season!  You have the capability to receive your tax documents electronically and get them much quicker than through the mail. This process provides a secure and efficient method of delivery eliminating delays and errors from the traditional postal system, earlier access to W-2 and 1095-C information, and access to print additional copies at your convenience.

Signing Up is Easy!

1. Log into the Experience Portal: Home - Ellucian Experience.
2. Go to your Employee Dashboard: Employee Dashboard.
3. Find the Electronic Regulatory Consent located in Taxes under the Pay Information.
4. Read the Electronic Regulatory Consent information and click the box under My Choice>Consent to receive W-2 electronically and Consent to receive 1095-C electronically.
5. Click the Submit button.
6. Upon successful completion, a green check mark and the statement "Electronic Statement consent was submitted successfully" indicate you’re finished.

If you have any questions on how to sign up don't hesitate to contact your Human Resources office at 605-642-6549.

Thank you!

Please consider joining this Center for Faculty Innvoation Workshop: AI Literacy - a BHSU framework for teaching and learning in the era of AI

Description: Since February of 2025, a team of faculty, staff and students, have been working toward a Framework for AI Literacy at BHSU. Join this workshop to explore the Framework - a description of AI-related learning outcomes that our community of educators values. We'll unpack the framework, share sources, and work with you to explore ways to use it for your teaching, mentoring, and program design work. 

When: Wednesday, Dec 10, 9am-10:30am

Where: JA 103A (Center for Faculty Innovation; or, RSVP for online option)

RSVP for this event

Questions? Visit the Center for Faculty Innovation BHSU Community Site or email Nicholas.VanKley@bhsu.edu

Dec. 9th

• 11:30AM-1PM Wisdom, Innovation, Networking Luncheon, Off Campus at the Rushmore Hotel & Suites (445 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57701)
• 5PM-6PM NIHONGO Camp, Online/Virtual

Dec. 10th

• 8:30AM-4:30PM 10th Annual BHSU History Department Student Conference, Jonas Academic 110
• 2PM-4PM End of Year Tax & Financial Planning, Joy Center

Dec. 12th

• 5PM-7PM Frayed Fates Opening Reception, On Campus Photographer's Gallery (Jonas 008)

Dec. 13th

• 10AM-12PM Fall Commencement, Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center

Pet the Stress Away gives students and faculty a chance to take a break from finals week and relax with some very special visitors! On Friday, December 12th and Tuesday, December 16th from 11 am to 1 pm, we will have some friendly, lovable dogs on campus! Spending even a few minutes petting a dog can help lower stress, boost mood, and bring a sense of calm during a busy time. Stop by, unwind, and enjoy some well-deserved joy and comfort! We will be outside of the student union (weather permitting) or inside the student union in the lower level next to the mail lockers. Come say hi and feel some love!

The Bookstore is holding it's annual Winter Wonderland sale! Not only will there be a 25% off sale on all regularly-priced BHSU merchandise, but also tables filled with all types of discounted items! Come check it out December 15th-19th!! 

New Letter delivery proceedures.

There has been a change in our letter delivery system.  Instead of mailboxes in the basement of the Student Union we now have a filing system at the Mail Services window next to the Bookstore.  Students can pick up their letters at the Mail Services window from 8 am to 4 pm.  An email will not be sent for letters, as in the past it is the responsibility of the students to check the status of personal letters.

Packages will be delivered the same as last year.  Any package that will fit into our lockers inside the ground floor entrance of the Student Union will be scanned and placed at that location.  Any packages that will not fit in the locker system will be available for pick up at the Mail Servies window.  Emails will be sent out on all packages with directions on where to pick them up, and a PIN number attached to the emails if the package is in the locker system.

TRIO is in search of any old magazines you are looking to part with! We will be hosting a Vision Board event for our TRIO students to help motivate them and set goals for the New Year 2026. Magazines can be dropped off at the TRIO offices located in Woodburn Hall 107. Magazine donations will be accepted now until January 14th! Thank you in advance!

Dive into FREE professional development classes from prestigious universities and gain professional certifications through the Skill Forward program. By registering for the platform and completing one course before December 31st, you will automatically be entered to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card. 10 winners will be chosen! 

Sample Courses & Certificates include these and more:  

• Resume, Networking & Interviewing Skills  

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths  

• Personal Financial Planning  

• AI for Beginners or Prompt Engineering 

• Career Networking: Build a Social Media Presence 

• Public Speaking 

• Communication Skills and Teamwork 

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths 

• Business Communication 

• Excel for Beginners or Analyzing Data with Excel 

• More! 

Three easy steps to access the platform: 

1. Visit http://www.BHSU.edu/sdceo/SkillForward and register (this redirects to a Verizon branded page) before December 31 

1. Watch for an activation email (sent by a real person, so it may minutes … or could take a day or two) 

1. Click the link to activate and start exploring the platform. Once activated, you’ll have free access to the platform for one full year and may take as many courses or certificates as you wish. 

If you have questions, reach out to Ashley Wingert at Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu or Elizabeth Freer at Elizabeth.Freer@bhsu.edu.  

Dear colleagues,

Our campus community thrives on curiosity, and so the Geek Speak lecture series is looking for you, our faculty and staff: the quietly brilliant, the joyfully eccentric, the holders of niche and geek knowledge and bold ideas.

Have a Geekdom passion project that your friends are tired of hearing about?
Perfect. We’ll listen enthusiastically.

Working on conference papers, research (past or present), or that long-simmering idea?
Bring it. Messy, polished, experimental—we love it all.

Want to assemble a lively discussion panel?
We adore a good debate

If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I wish more people knew how to do this because it would bring them joy/improve their lives/save them time or money,” consider it a sign. Bring us the thrill of learning-by-doing. Think: zine-making, small-scale experiments, craft demos, improv exercises, coding puzzles, game design, Excel magic, beadwork, watercolor…

Your brilliance deserves an audience…and we’re not above begging.

Interested? Have questions or ideas?  Drop me a note:  Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu 

The Christmas Reception is today at The Joy Center between 3:00–5:00 p.m.

We hope to see you there.

Did you ever wonder who was Wenona Cook? Learn about the woman after whom BH's first residence hall was named in the latest issue of the Black Hills Historian: https://libguides.bhsu.edu/bhh  

The newsletter archive also includes access to past issues, including those on Black Hills monuments, the Passion Play, notable BHSU alumni, BHSU history, and other Black Hills related topics. It is a publication of the Friends of the Leland D. Case Library, which is the special collections and archives section of the BHSU Library.

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of Spearfish (1876-2026), the Leland D. Case Library has created a photo exhibit highlighting the first 75 years of Spearfish's history. "Remembering Spearfish: 150 Years of Community" is on display at the Ruddell Gallery through January 23, 2026. For additional information on the exhibit visit: https://libguides.bhsu.edu/Spearfish150 

Please help support SD CEO West TODAY on Giving Tuesday by liking and sharing our South Dakota Gives posts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or by considering a financial donation (any amount is helpful!).  

South Dakota Gives is offering challenges and prizes throughout the day which could unlock additional funding for our partially grant funded program – simply by having people like and share our posts! Learn more about South Dakota Gives and see all participating nonprofits on their website: https://www.southdakotagives.org/ 

Engage with SD CEO West on Giving Tuesday through our socials: 

• Facebook: @SDCEOWest (https://www.facebook.com/SDCEOWest)
• Instagram: @SDCEOWest (https://www.instagram.com/sdceowest/)
• LinkedIn: @SDCEOWestWomenBusinessCenter (https://www.linkedin.com/company/sdceowest)

The Bookstore is holding it's annual Winter Wonderland sale! Not only will there be a 25% off sale on all regularly-priced BHSU merchandise, but also tables filled with all types of discounted items! Come check it out December 15th-19th!! 

BHSU Student Health and Counseling Center would like to wish all of you a great holiday season!

Although holidays are wonderful times filled with family and friends, they can also increase pressure surrounding financial expectations, family dynamics, busy schedules and emotional triggers. We encourage you to practice healthy self-care and consider the helpful tips listed below!

Acknowledge the Reality of Holiday Stress

The holidays often bring joy but additional stress. Stress is a normal response to doing “more than usual” in a short period of time. Acknowledge this reality and remind yourself this is a normal experience for most people.

Set Realistic Expectation

You don’t have to create a perfect holiday. Decide what’s truly important, such as traditions, people, or moments and let the rest be optional. Give yourself permission to say “no” when you’re at capacity. Feeling guilty doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve done something wrong. It may simply indicate you’re not good at saying no. Feel guilt and say no!

 Planning Ahead & Prioritizing

Break tasks into small, manageable steps when it comes to cooking, shopping and traveling. Use a simple checklist or calendar to stay organized. Prioritize the events and commitments that matter most. Remember it’s impossible to do everything!

Maintain Boundaries Limit time in situations or with people who feel draining. Set clear boundaries around your energy, schedule, and spending. Remember: boundaries are not about pushing people away but about protecting your overall well-being. Healthy people do not get angry when you set boundaries to care for yourself and/or family. Their response says more about them than it does about you!

Practice Self-Care

Keep your basic routines: sleep, hydration, movement, balanced meals. Schedule short, restorative breaks, even 5 minutes of breathing or a quick walk can help. Engage in activities that ground you such as journaling, music, mindfulness, and stepping outside. Enjoy the holiday festivities and food but avoid going overboard!

Notice and Manage Emotions

Notice early signs that you’re becoming overwhelmed, tense or irritable. Use coping skills such as deep breathing, grounding techniques, or stepping away for a moment or longer if needed. Reach out for support if you need it by talking to friends, family, or a mental health professional.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

Remember that what people remember most is how they felt, not how things looked. Invite meaningful moments by using humor, gratitude, and slowing down.

Creating a Realistic Budget

Financial strain is one of the biggest holiday stressors. Set a spending limit early and stick to it. Draw names or skip gifts between adults, opt for an experience together or give back to your community in a small way over the holiday season. Focus on thoughtful gifts or gestures that can really make a difference.

 Give Yourself Grace

You can’t be everything to everyone. Celebrate small wins and practice self-compassion. Most importantly, remember, it’s okay to adjust plans to protect your mental health.

Dive into FREE professional development classes from prestigious universities and gain professional certifications through the Skill Forward program. By registering for the platform and completing one course before December 31st, you will automatically be entered to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card. 10 winners will be chosen! 

Sample Courses & Certificates include these and more:  

• Resume, Networking & Interviewing Skills  

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths  

• Personal Financial Planning  

• AI for Beginners or Prompt Engineering 

• Career Networking: Build a Social Media Presence 

• Public Speaking 

• Communication Skills and Teamwork 

• Self-Assessment: Developing your Strengths 

• Business Communication 

• Excel for Beginners or Analyzing Data with Excel 

• More! 

Three easy steps to access the platform: 

1. Visit http://www.BHSU.edu/sdceo/SkillForward and register (this redirects to a Verizon branded page) before December 31 

1. Watch for an activation email (sent by a real person, so it may minutes … or could take a day or two) 

1. Click the link to activate and start exploring the platform. Once activated, you’ll have free access to the platform for one full year and may take as many courses or certificates as you wish. 

If you have questions, reach out to Ashley Wingert at Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu or Elizabeth Freer at Elizabeth.Freer@bhsu.edu.  

The Send-a-Thanks platform was developed for employees to be able to send a special thank you, or kudos, to one of their colleagues across campus.  Employees who receive a send-a-thanks are entered in to a monthly drawing for either a Bookstore gift card or a mug and gift card courtesy of Einstein's. We would like to give a shout out to the recipients who have received a kudos! Recent recipients were:

If you would like to send a special recognition to someone please click the quick link on the main e-Update email.
Thank you all for everything you do!

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Director, Facilities Planning & Management
• Assistant Director, West River Health Science Center
• Campus Security Specialist
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Financial Aid Assistant
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

🤩 It's $5 Friday! 🍳🍔

Get ready for $5 breakfast or lunch this week!! 🎉

Quick Reminders:

• 💳 Cashless: The Hive only accepts credit/debit cards or Buzz Bucks.
• 📍 Location: This deal is only available at The Hive (Einstein’s is not included).
• 🆔 ID Please: Show your Buzz card to the cashier.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Employees Only: This benefit is for employees; guests pay the regular price.

A huge thank you to Ron and the entire Dining Services staff for supporting us! Enjoy your meal! 🥳

The Office of the State Auditor has sent a reminder for all state agencies regarding travel reimbursements:

1. Private Individual Vehicle Rentals (such as Turo) are NOT an allowable expense.
2. Payment for Uber rides paying with "Uber Bucks/Uber Cash" cannot be reimbursed

Clarification of the 60-day travel reimbursement submission rule:

Pursuant to Souith Dakota Administrative Rule 3:05:03:03.1, claims for travel expense must be submitted within sixty days after the last day of travel.  To be considered as submitted, the claim must be audited and entered in the Banner system prior to the sixty-first day.  Travel reimbursement requests not submitted with the 60-day travel requirement will not be reimbursed.

Dear colleagues,

Our campus community thrives on curiosity, and so the Geek Speak lecture series is looking for you, our faculty and staff: the quietly brilliant, the joyfully eccentric, the holders of niche and geek knowledge and bold ideas.

Have a Geekdom passion project that your friends are tired of hearing about?
Perfect. We’ll listen enthusiastically.

Working on conference papers, research (past or present), or that long-simmering idea?
Bring it. Messy, polished, experimental—we love it all.

Want to assemble a lively discussion panel?
We adore a good debate

If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I wish more people knew how to do this because it would bring them joy/improve their lives/save them time or money,” consider it a sign. Bring us the thrill of learning-by-doing. Think: zine-making, small-scale experiments, craft demos, improv exercises, coding puzzles, game design, Excel magic, beadwork, watercolor…

Your brilliance deserves an audience…and we’re not above begging.

Interested? Have questions or ideas?  Drop me a note:  Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

The minimum wage for employees in South Dakota is increasing from $11.50 to $11.85 per hour effective January 1, 2026.  Any employees who fall below the new minimum will be brought up to $11.85 effective with the January pay period that begins December 22, 2025.  Please make sure to be conscious of this new minimum wage when hiring, as well as to keep in mind the budget implications associated with this change.

With 2025 nearing an end, HR is thinking about tax season!  You have the capability to receive your tax documents electronically and get them much quicker than through the mail. This process provides a secure and efficient method of delivery eliminating delays and errors from the traditional postal system, earlier access to W-2 and 1095-C information, and access to print additional copies at your convenience.

Signing Up is Easy!

1. Log into the Experience Portal: Home - Ellucian Experience.
2. Go to your Employee Dashboard: Employee Dashboard.
3. Find the Electronic Regulatory Consent located in Taxes under the Pay Information.
4. Read the Electronic Regulatory Consent information and click the box under My Choice>Consent to receive W-2 electronically and Consent to receive 1095-C electronically.
5. Click the Submit button.
6. Upon successful completion, a green check mark and the statement "Electronic Statement consent was submitted successfully" indicate you’re finished.

If you have any questions on how to sign up don't hesitate to contact your Human Resources office at 605-642-6549.

Thank you!

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining next semester, Spring 2026.

Dec. 2nd

• 5PM-6PM NIHONGO Camp, Online/Virtual

Dec. 3rd

• 4PM-5PM Making Japanese New Years Cards, International Office (Woodburn Hall 115)

Dec. 4-6th

• 5:30PM-8PM Madrigal Dinner, Meier Hall

Dec. 5th

• 4PM-6PM PONDER Launch Party & 2025 Awards Celebration, Joy Center

Dec. 9th

• 11:30AM-1PM Wisdom, Innovation, Networking Luncheon, Off Campus at the Rushmore Hotel & Suites (445 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57701)

Dec. 9th

• 5PM-6PM NIHONGO Camp, Online/Virtual

Dec. 10th

• 2PM-4PM End of Year Tax & Financial Planning, Joy Center

Dec. 13th

• 10AM-12PM Fall Commencement, Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center

The Office of the State Auditor has sent a reminder for all state agencies regarding travel reimbursements:

   1.  Private Individual Vehicle Rentals (such as Turo) are NOT an allowable expense.

    2.  Payment for Uber rides paying with "Uber Bucks/Uber Cash" cannot be reimbursed

Clarificatin of the 60-day travel reimbursement submission rule:

Pursuant to Souith Dakota Administrative Rule 3:05:03:03.1, claims for travel expense must be submitted within sixty days after the last day of travel.  To be considered as submitted, the claim must be audited and entered in the Banner system prior to the sixty-first day.  Travel reimbursement request not submitted with the 60-day travel requirement will not be reimbursed.

E-Update Events: 11/25/25

Nov. 25th

• All Day Pop Up Food Pantry, Student Union
• All Day Northern Hills Honor Bands Festival, Meier Recital Hall and Spearfish School Auditorium

Nov. 26th - Nov. 30th

• Thanksgiving Holiday, No Classes

Dec. 1st

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story, Jonas Academic 110

Dec. 2nd

• 5PM-6PM NIHONGO Camp, Online/Virtual

Dec. 3rd

• 4PM-5PM Making Japanese New Years Cards, International Office (Woodburn Hall 115)

Dec. 4-6th

• 5:30PM-8PM Madrigal Dinner, Meier Hall

Dec. 5th

• 4PM-6PM PONDER Launch Party & 2025 Awards Celebration, Joy Center

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

Dear colleagues,

Our campus community thrives on curiosity, and so the Geek Speak lecture series is looking for you, our faculty and staff: the quietly brilliant, the joyfully eccentric, the holders of niche and geek knowledge and bold ideas.

Have a Geekdom passion project that your friends are tired of hearing about?
Perfect. We’ll listen enthusiastically.

Working on conference papers, research (past or present), or that long-simmering idea?
Bring it. Messy, polished, experimental—we love it all.

Want to assemble a lively discussion panel?
We adore a good debate

If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I wish more people knew how to do this because it would bring them joy/improve their lives/save them time or money,” consider it a sign. Bring us the thrill of learning-by-doing. Think: zine-making, small-scale experiments, craft demos, improv exercises, coding puzzles, game design, Excel magic, beadwork, watercolor…

Your brilliance deserves an audience…and we’re not above begging.

Interested? Have questions or ideas?  Drop me a note:  Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

Lakota Omniciye is hosting their annual Holiday Gift Exchange.

Pick up an angel from the Christmas tree located in the library or in front of Jonas 108.

You can drop off items at the Christmas tree in the library, in front of Jonas 108, or the CAIS (Jonas 101)

Please drop off items by December 1st.

For more information contact: Jordon Mendoza, Jordon.Mendoza@bhsu.edu, 605-642-6578

Please plan to attend the BHSU Christmas Reception. 

Tuesday, December 2nd

3:00 - 5:00 p.m. 

The Joy Center

We kindly ask that you please bring an item to stock the BHSU Food Pantry. 

As a reminder, Governor Rhoden has granted administrative leave for eligible state employees on the following days in November and December. 

• Thursday, November 27:  Thanksgiving Holiday
• Friday, November 28:  Administrative Leave
• Wednesday, December 24:  Administrative Leave
• Thursday, December 25:  Christmas Holiday
• Friday, December 26:  Administrative Leave

Executive Director Lukkes supports the Governor’s granting of administrative leave to SDBOR employees on these days.

We hope you enjoy this time and thank you for your service to the state of South Dakota and to Black Hills State University!

The Sustainability Department is accepting donations for the Campus Free Store. Students are welcome to stop in and pick up free school, dorm, and kitchen supplies along with clothes and decorations.

Location: Club Buzz in the Student Union
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm

We are also accepting donations. Please stop by if you would like to learn more. We are mainly looking for school supplies, kitchen and dorm items, and decorations.

We are not accepting used bedding of any kind, stained, ripped or damaged clothing, expired or perishable food, broken appliances, electronics or televisions.

If you have any questions, please contact Taryn Davis at Taryn.Davis@yellowjacket.bhsu.edu

As winter weather sets in, please use care when walking across campus. Icy conditions can form without warning. Take short and careful steps to keep your balance. Many people find it helpful to walk like a penguin by keeping their weight over their front foot.

Wear sturdy footwear with good traction. This can make a big difference on slick walkways and parking lots.

Report any hazards to Facilities Services at X6244 as soon as you see them.

Slip and fall incidents can cause serious injuries. Thank you for taking the time to move safely across campus this winter.

Please join us in welcoming Delany Creed to BHSU! Delany began her role as a Registration Officer on November 24, 2025. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will bring to our students and campus community!

Please plan to attend the Town Hall Meeting, this week:

Thursday, November 20th 

3:30 - 4:30 

Jacket Legacy Room - upper level of the Student Union

Click Here for agenda

Nov. 18th

• 6PM-7PM International Fashion Show, Student Union Atrium near Starbucks
• 7PM-8PM International Trivia Night, Student Union Crow Peak Conference Room (2nd Floor)

Nov. 19th

• 7PM-9PM Japanese Film Night, Jonas Academic 305

Nov. 20th

• 10:45AM-1:30PM International Food Festival, The Hive in the Student Union

Nov. 21st

• 7PM-8:15PM Band Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 22nd

• 7PM-8:15PM Choir Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 23rd

• 2PM-3:15 PM Orchestra Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 24th

• 9AM-4:30PM Free In-Person Insurance Enrollment Event, Off Campus Career Learning Center of the Black Hills (730 E Watertown Street)

Nov. 25th

• All Day Pop Up Food Pantry, Student Union
• All Day Northern Hills Honor Bands Festival, Meier Recital Hall and Spearfish School Auditorium

Nov. 26th - Nov. 30th

• Thanksgiving Holiday, No Classes

Dec. 1st

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story, Jonas Academic 110

Join us in celebrating the people, places, and power of global connections at Black Hills State University!

International Education Week is an occasion to pause, recognize, and uplift the contributions, values, and impacts of international education. It honors the rich diversity of our campus community through our international students who share new ideas, cultures, languages, and traditions; our global faculty and staff who bring expertise from around the world; and our students who expand their horizons through study abroad experiences overseas. 

Together, we celebrate how international education builds understanding, collaboration, and community across borders.

We hope to see you at events throughout the week as we explore art, culture, and connection from around the globe:

• Monday, Nov. 17: Study Abroad Fair, 11-2pm, Student Union Lobby across from Starbucks
• Tuesday, Nov. 18: International Fashion Show, 6-7pm, Student Union Lobby across from Starbucks
• Tuesday, Nov. 18: International Trivia Night, 7-8pm, Crow Peak Conference Room in the Student Union
• Wednesday, Nov. 19: Japanese Film Night, 7-9pm, Jonas 305, Miyori in the Sacred Forest with free popcorn
• Thursday, Nov. 20: International Food Festival, 10:45-1:30pm, The Hive in the Student Union, $10 for all you can eat samples. International students and staff will be teaming up with BHSU Dining Services to prepare delicious cultural samples from around the world - no passport required! You can use a Meal Plan swipe or pay $10 by credit card or cash. If you choose to pay in cash, Sodexo has generously offered to donate that amount to the Global Jackets student organization.

For more details about each event, please visit the Campus Calendar: https://bhsu.edu/campus-calendar.html 

Lakota Omniciye is hosting their annual Holiday Gift Exchange.

Pick up an angel from the Christmas tree located in the library or in front of Jonas 108.

You can drop off items at the Christmas tree in the library, in front of Jonas 108, or the CAIS (Jonas 101)

Please drop off items by December 1st.

For more information contact: Jordon Mendoza, Jordon.Mendoza@bhsu.edu, 605-642-6578

Specs Grading: simplify grading and motivate students to excel

A Center for Faculty Innovation workshop, featuring Katleyn Kelly (Political Science)

Ever felt like your grading could do more to motivate students? Ever felt like you were spending too much time on grading tasks that didn't really matter?

Join this workshop to hear how one BHSU faculty member addressed those issues with ʺSpecs Grading,ʺ an innovative grading scheme that can make grades more transparent, motivate students to excel, and streamline faculty grading work. Explore the Specs Grading framework and learn how Katelyn Kelly (Political Science) used the approach to improve her grading practice in 2025.

When: Friday, November 21, 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM

Where: JA 103A (RSVP for Online Option)

RSVP: RSVP for this Event

Staff Senate will be having it's November monthly meeting.

• Date: Wednesday,  November 19th

• Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

• Location (In-Person): The Trump Room

We will be hosting Kathy Johnson, Vice President for Finance, as our special guest speaker.  She will be presenting on the topic of contract processing, as well as, other topics and will be available to answer any related questions.

All Staff are welcome to attend.  Please join us either in person or virtually via Microsoft Teams:

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZGNhMjIwNDYtYTJjOS00MDk3LWJiZjAtNmU5MzAxMGZjZGI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%229bfcf28b-3a11-4fd7-a813-8f519cdb0db2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%220fce668e-e6d5-45bb-8303-5fc95c14bb4c%22%7d

🎁 Send-A-Thanks with BHSU Staff Senate! 🌍

Celebrate International Thank You Day on January 11th by sending a thoughtful gift to someone who deserves a little extra appreciation!

The BHSU Staff Senate is offering Send-A-Thanks gifts for just $5 each. Whether it’s a colleague, mentor, or friend, this is your chance to brighten someone’s day with a small token of gratitude.  Gifts will be hand delivered by a member of Staff Senate.

📦 Delivery Date: January 12^th, 2026

📆 Last day to order: December 17^th, 2026
💵 Cost: $5 per gift
📍 Available to all BHSU faculty, staff, and students

🖱️Click the link below to send a thank you:

https://forms.microsoft.com/r/p4a8cJskLx

Let’s spread kindness across campus—one thank-you at a time!

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Director, Facilities Planning & Management
• Assistant Director, West River Health Science Center
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Financial Aid Assistant
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

BLOOD DRIVE - TOMORROW!

BHSU is hosting it's next Blood Drive with Vitalent, hosted by the Exercise Science Club.

WHEN: Wednesday, November 19th from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

WHERE: Jacket Legacy Room (3rd floor of the Student Union)

A quick, safe, and rewarding way to help save lives. Whether you're a first-time donor or a regular, we would love to see you there! 

All blood types are needed. Bring a picture ID. Eat and hydrate before the donation. Bring a friend and save lives together!

You can make an appointment at www.Donors.Vitalent.org and enter the Blood Drive Code: BHSU. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Dear colleagues,

Our campus community thrives on curiosity, and so the Geek Speak lecture series is looking for you, our faculty and staff: the quietly brilliant, the joyfully eccentric, the holders of niche and geek knowledge and bold ideas.

Have a Geekdom passion project that your friends are tired of hearing about?
Perfect. We’ll listen enthusiastically.

Working on conference papers, research (past or present), or that long-simmering idea?
Bring it. Messy, polished, experimental...we love it all.

Want to assemble a lively discussion panel?
We adore a good debate

If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I wish more people knew how to do this because it would bring them joy/improve their lives/save them time or money,” consider it a sign. Bring us the thrill of learning-by-doing. Think: zine-making, small-scale experiments, craft demos, improv exercises, coding puzzles, game design, Excel magic, beadwork, watercolor…

Your brilliance deserves an audience…and we’re not above begging.

Interested? Have questions or ideas?  Drop me a note:  Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

As we approach the end of the semester and plot a course for spring 2026, please consider making the 28th Black Hills Research Symposium part of your spring plans! 

Calling all student researchers, artists, and scholars of all fields! The Black Hills Research Symposium (BHRS) wants you to submit your abstracts to participate in the 28th Annual BHRS held at BHSU on April 1st and 2nd in 2026.

The deadline for abstract submissions is Friday, February 27th 2026. Do you have a paper or project you've been working hard on and would love to showcase? A BHRS Oral Presenation or Poster Presentation may be the perfect venue for sharing your most excellent work! Consider converting a paper or project from your fall 2025 class into a BHRS presentation! 

BHRS is an academically inclusive event that values the variety of methodologies people use to produce knowledge. The following (and more) are included:
o Natural Sciences
o Social and Behavioral Sciences
o Mathematical Sciences
o Literary works
o Arts: Visual, Auditory, & Performing Arts
o AND MORE…

Find out more and apply via this link: https://bhsu.edu/university-resources/research_symposium.html 

The minimum wage for employees in South Dakota is increasing from $11.50 to $11.85 per hour effective January 1, 2026.  Any employees who fall below the new minimum will be brought up to $11.85 effective with the January pay period that begins December 22, 2025.  Please make sure to be conscious of this new minimum wage when hiring, as well as to keep in mind the budget implications associated with this change.

The Virtual Benefits Fair is a great opportunity for you to learn more about your health and flexible benefits. You will also get a chance to ask questions to members of the Benefits Team, the Employee Health Office Team, and the State’s third-party benefit administrators. Please join us Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 9AM - 3PM CT. Please register by going to https://livewellsd.sd.gov/. 

With 2025 nearing an end, HR is thinking about tax season!  You have the capability to receive your tax documents electronically and get them much quicker than through the mail. This process provides a secure and efficient method of delivery eliminating delays and errors from the traditional postal system, earlier access to W-2 and 1095-C information, and access to print additional copies at your convenience.

Signing Up is Easy!

1. Log into the Experience Portal: Home - Ellucian Experience.
2. Go to your Employee Dashboard: Employee Dashboard.
3. Find the Electronic Regulatory Consent located in Taxes under the Pay Information.
4. Read the Electronic Regulatory Consent information and click the box under My Choice>Consent to receive W-2 electronically and Consent to receive 1095-C electronically.
5. Click the Submit button.
6. Upon successful completion, a green check mark and the statement "Electronic Statement consent was submitted successfully" indicate you’re finished.

If you have any questions on how to sign up don't hesitate to contact your Human Resources office at 605-642-6549.

Thank you!

Annual CSA and NFE Evaluations

The annual CSA and NFE performance evaluations have been launched through PeopleAdmin.  There are a total of seven steps throughout the evaluation process.  Evaluations are for the calendar year, January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.  Every step may be completed prior to the actual due date and it will then forward on to the next person.  The goals that were set last year should automatically roll over into this year’s evaluation.  When supervisors go into step one to create the plan, please make sure that the correct position description pulls in, as well as goals that were established last year.  Please visit our Knowledge Base article (https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=285) that includes a detailed guide explaining how to complete the entire evaluation process.  Please read through as you are completing your evaluations.  This guide is for both employees and supervisors.  Email notifications/reminders will be coming from hr@sdbor.edu.  This process does not pertain to faculty unless you supervise an NFE or CSA employee.  Please reach out to the HR office at 605-642-6549 if you have any questions.  Thanks!

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining next semester, Spring 2026.

Sign up before November 20th for a full year of free access! 
Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificates and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science.  

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends. 

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

Please plan to attend the Town Hall Meeting:

Thursday, November 20th

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Jacket Legacy Room (upper floor of the Student Union) 

Lakota Omniciye is hosting their annual Holiday Gift Exchange.

Pick up an angel from the Christmas tree located in the library or in front of Jonas 108.

You can drop off items at the Christmas tree in the library, in front of Jonas 108, or the CAIS (Jonas 101)

For more information contact: Jordon Mendoza, Jordon.Mendoza@bhsu.edu, 605-642-6578

Nov. 11th

• All Day Veteran's Day, No Class

Nov. 13th

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Virtual/Online

Nov. 14th

• 7PM-8:30PM Ponderosa Brass Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 15th

• 7PM-8:15PM Jazz Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 17th

• 11AM-2PM Study Abroad Fair, Student Union Atrium near Starbucks
• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: "Generating Music with Markov Chains", Jonas Academic 110
• 5PM-7PM Legislator Day, Student Union Crow Peak Conference Room (2nd Floor)

Nov. 18th

• 6PM-7PM International Fashion Show, Student Union Atrium near Starbucks
• 7PM-8PM International Trivia Night, Student Union Crow Peak Conference Room (2nd Floor)

Nov. 19th

• 7PM-9PM Japanese Film Night, Jonas Academic 305

Nov. 20th

• 10:45AM-1:30PM International Food Festival, The Hive in the Student Union

Nov. 21st

• 7PM-8:15PM Band Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 22nd

• 7PM-8:15PM Choir Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 23rd

• 7PM-8:15PM Orchestra Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Nov. 24th

• All Day Pop Up Food Pantry, Student Union
• All Day Northern Hills Honor Bands Festival, Meier Recital Hall and Spearfish School Auditorium

BHSU’s Office of Sustainability would like to compost your pumpkins! 🍂 

Instead of throwing Jack-o-Lantern in the trash, BHSU students, staff, and faculty can drop off their pumpkins in the BHSU Campus Garden, located between the Yellowjacket Apartments and Donald E. Young Center, November 1st- 22nd.  

Directions 

✔️ Remove candles, wax, and any non-pumpkin materials 

✔️ Place your unwanted pumpkin anywhere inside of the Campus Garden 

✔️ Pumpkin donations will be accepted until Saturday, November 22nd 

❌ No painted or glittered pumpkins accepted; these must go in the trash  

❌ Please do not put anything other than pumpkins or gourds in the Campus Garden 

Please contact Taryn Davis at taryn.davis@yellowjackets.bhsu.edu for more information.  

BHSU is hosting it's next Blood Drive with Vitalent, hosted by the Exercise Science Club.

WHEN: Wednesday, November 19th from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

WHERE: Jacket Legacy Room (3rd floor of the Student Union)

A quick, safe, and rewarding way to help save lives. Whether you're a first-time donor or a regular, every drop counts and we would love to see you there! 

All blood types are needed. Bring a picture ID. Eat and hydrate before the donation. Bring a friend and save lives together!

You can make an appointment at www.Donors.Vitalent.org and enter the Blood Drive Code: BHSU. Walk-ins are also welcome!

I am pleased to share that TRIO Student Support Services is welcoming a new Professional Advisor to our team. Please join me in congratulating and welcoming Bekah Loftus.

Bekah brings a deep understanding of TRIO from her experience at University of Wyoming.  We are excited to benefit from her insight and experience. We are confident that she will make a meaningful impact as she works closely with TRIO students to support their academic and personal success.

Please join us in giving Bekah a warm welcome as she steps into this important role!

Please join us in welcoming 2 new BHSU employees!! Rebekah Loftus started on 11/4/2025 as a TRIO Professional Advisor, and Shelbee Hopkins joined us on 11/5/2025 as a Professional Advisor in the Student Success Center. We’re so excited to have them on board and look forward to the positive impacts they will make with our students and campus community!

Help others in the Black Hills…

by giving to local nonprofits who assist in the areas of early education, health, financial stability and basic needs.

Submit a one-time donation or request simple payroll deduction by contacting Sandra Kringen (Woodburn Hall Room 207) or email Sandra.Kringen@bhsu.edu by November 14th.

Learn more or donate directly through the website https://unitedwayblackhills.org/community-giving-campaign/ [Donate Now].

The Virtual Benefits Fair is a great opportunity for you to learn more about your health and flexible benefits. You will also get a chance to ask questions to members of the Benefits Team, the Employee Health Office Team, and the State’s third-party benefit administrators. Please join us Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 9AM - 3PM CT. Please register by going to https://livewellsd.sd.gov/. 

Sign up before November 20th for a full year of free access! 
Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificates and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science.  

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends. 

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

Please join us in welcoming Morgan De Vos to BHSU! Morgan began her role as a Financial Aid Advisor on October 29, 2025. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will bring to our students and campus community!

Please plan to attend the Town Hall Meeting. 

Thursday, November 20, 2025

3:30 - 4:30 p.m. 

Jacket Legacy Room (upper level of the Student Union)

The Campus E-Update will not be sent out next week on Tuesday, November 11, since there are no classes and offices are closed in observance of Veterans Day. The E-Update will instead go out the following day on Wednesday, November 12 at 1:30pm. 

As a reminder, you must get your announcements in by 9:30am the morning that the E-Update is going out (If you are wanting it included the same day the email goes out). The E-Update email is sent out to all Faculty/Staff and Students every Tuesday (unless otherwise specified) while school is in session. 

If you have submitted a Faculty/Staff announcement and need assistance with it, please contact Campus.eUpdate@BHSU.edu. If you have submitted a Student announcement and need assistance with it, please contact BHSUEnrollment@BHSU.edu. 

Need an updated professional photo? University Marketing & Communications will hold a faculty and staff headshot session on Wednesday, November 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Reserve a timeslot here: https://forms.office.com/r/WpWz7hQxPq
Walk-ins are also welcome.

For additional information and future session dates, visit:
https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=743

Please join the Student Success Center in welcoming Katelyn Sylvester, the newest member of our advising team. Katelyn is a past graduate of the BHSU Human Services program and will complete extensive training in the coming weeks.  Her student load will include students in the College of Education and some of the School of Behavioral Sciences.  Please help Katelyn feel at home when you see her around campus.

REMINDER: Today is the last day to complete your JacketHub withdraw report.  Please take a moment to complete the report, which closes at 11 PM

The sole purpose of this survey is to identify students who are on track to fail their courses.  Your work assists SSC advisors in efforts to salvage GPAs, amend future schedules, and re-work grad plans to help students overcome current difficulties and create the best future outcomes possible.  Please include a comment on every student you flag, which helps advisors have a productive discussion with the student.

The Student Success Center sincerely appreciates your time and effort in submitting this information.  Thank you for your partnership!

The minimum wage for employees in South Dakota is increasing from $11.50 to $11.85 per hour effective January 1, 2026.  Any employees who fall below the new minimum will be brought up to $11.85 effective with the January pay period that begins December 22, 2025.  Please make sure to be conscious of this new minimum wage when hiring, as well as to keep in mind the budget implications associated with this change.

The Send-a-Thanks platform was developed for employees to be able to send a special thank you, or kudos, to one of their colleagues across campus.  Employees who receive a send-a-thanks are entered in to a monthly drawing for either a Bookstore gift card or a mug and gift card courtesy of Einstein's. We would like to give a shout out to the recipients who have received a kudos! Recent recipients were:

If you would like to send a special recognition to someone please click the quick link on the main e-Update email.
Thank you all for everything you do!

Renowned journalist and American Academy of Arts and Sciences member James Fallows, with co-author Deborah Fallows, explores America's resilience in their New York Times bestseller Our Towns.

Together, they share inspiring stories of innovation adn renewal from their 100,000-mile journey across the nation.

Join us for this innaugural event of the Dr. Nicholas W. Drummond Civic Engagement Speaker Series:

• Wednesday, November 5, 2025
• 5:30pm speaking engagement, with book signing to follow
• Meier Hall auditorium

Lakota Omniciye and the Center for American Indian Studies is once again spearheading the annual Cultural Holiday Exchange (Toy Drive) at Black Hills State University. Please pick an angel off one of our wish trees located outside of Jonas 108 and in the library. Donations of money, school supplies, and other gifts will be accepted to ensure that each child’s wish is fulfilled. BH students will transport gifts to this year’s school: Oceti Sakowin Community Academy in Rapid City in early December.

Drop off sites include the Library, Center for American Indian Studies: Jonas 101, and J108 The deadline to drop off gifts/donations is Monday, December 1^st, 2025. Thank you for your generosity and happy holidays!  

Come support the Lakota Omniciye Indian Taco Sale fundraiser.

Tacos will be sold 11/05/2025 under the BHSU Student Union bookstore at 11 am until sold out.

All proceeds will support the annual Wacipi held in April 2026. Thank you!

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Director, Facilities Planning & Management
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Sr Building Maintenance Worker
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

Beginning Wednesday, November 5, 2025, a new towing policy will take effect regarding vehicles parked on grass areas or sidewalks anywhere on campus without prior approval from the Department of Public Safety or Residence Life. Under this policy, any vehicle found parked on sidewalks or grass areas not specifically approved or designated for parking will be towed immediately, without prior warning, ticketing, or notification of the registered owner. This new rule will be in effect and can be enforced 24 hours a day.

The cost of towing will be the sole responsibility of the vehicle’s registered owner.

This policy change comes in response to a significant increase in vehicles parking on grass and driving or parking on sidewalks, which has obstructed access for emergency vehicles and compromised campus safety.

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our campus safe and accessible for everyone.

For questions or clarifications, please contact the BHSU Department of Public Safety at (605) 641-6988 or visit our office in the Student Union, Room 102.

Our BHSU Exercise Science students, in collaboration with BH Marketing, have created a fantastic video submission for the ACSM Mascot Challenge—and they need your help to bring home the Fan Favorite title!

We’re asking the campus community to watch, vote, and share. Your support (and your network!) can make all the difference.

Here’s how to participate:

1. Watch the 90-second Mascot Challenge videos using the link below.

2. Click “Like” on the BHSU video to vote for Fan Favorite.

3. Forward or share the link with colleagues, friends, family, and community members to help spread the word!

Voting closes Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. ET—every like counts toward helping our students and university shine nationally!

Let’s show our Yellow Jacket pride and rally behind our students’ creativity and hard work! 

Watch HERE

The Virtual Benefits Fair is a great opportunity for you to learn more about your health and flexible benefits. You will also get a chance to ask questions to members of the Benefits Team, the Employee Health Office Team, and the State’s third-party benefit administrators. Please join us Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 9AM - 3PM CT. Please register by going to https://livewellsd.sd.gov/. 

🎉 BHSU Staff Senate 50/50 Raffle Announcement 🎉

Get ready to win big while supporting a great cause! The BHSU Staff Senate is hosting a 50/50 Raffle, and you're invited to join in the excitement.

🗓️ Ticket Sales:
November 3 – December 8

🎟️ Ticket Prices:

• 1 ticket for $1
• 6 tickets for $5
• 15 tickets for $10

🎯 Drawing Date:
December 9 — One lucky winner will take home 50% of the total pot!

💛 Why Participate?
Proceeds will support Staff Senate initiatives, including:

• Staff professional development opportunities
• Staff and student appreciation events

Your contribution helps build a stronger, more connected BHSU community. Let’s make it a win-win!

For tickets or more information, contact any Staff Senate member. Good luck! 🍀

With 2025 nearing an end, HR is thinking about tax season!  You have the capability to receive your tax documents electronically and get them much quicker than through the mail. This process provides a secure and efficient method of delivery eliminating delays and errors from the traditional postal system, earlier access to W-2 and 1095-C information, and access to print additional copies at your convenience.

Signing Up is Easy!

1. Log into the Experience Portal: Home - Ellucian Experience.
2. Go to your Employee Dashboard: Employee Dashboard.
3. Find the Electronic Regulatory Consent located in Taxes under the Pay Information.
4. Read the Electronic Regulatory Consent information and click the box under My Choice>Consent to receive W-2 electronically and Consent to receive 1095-C electronically.
5. Click the Submit button.
6. Upon successful completion, a green check mark and the statement "Electronic Statement consent was submitted successfully" indicate you’re finished.

If you have any questions on how to sign up don't hesitate to contact your Human Resources office at 605-642-6549.

Thank you!

Annual CSA and NFE Evaluations

The annual CSA and NFE performance evaluations have been launched through PeopleAdmin.  There are a total of seven steps throughout the evaluation process.  Evaluations are for the calendar year, January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.  Every step may be completed prior to the actual due date and it will then forward on to the next person.  The goals that were set last year should automatically roll over into this year’s evaluation.  When supervisors go into step one to create the plan, please make sure that the correct position description pulls in, as well as goals that were established last year.  Please visit our Knowledge Base article (https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=285) that includes a detailed guide explaining how to complete the entire evaluation process.  Please read through as you are completing your evaluations.  This guide is for both employees and supervisors.  Email notifications/reminders will be coming from hr@sdbor.edu.  This process does not pertain to faculty unless you supervise an NFE or CSA employee.  Please reach out to the HR office at 605-642-6549 if you have any questions.  Thanks!

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining next semester, Spring 2026.

Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificates and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science.  

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends. 

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 
 

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

Nov. 4th

• 11AM-1PM Ongiri Action, Student Union Atrium
• 5PM-7PM Fiddler on the Roof Auditions, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 5th

• 4PM-5PM Japanese Campus Life & Business Manner, International Office (Woodburn Hall 115)
• 5PM-7PM Fiddler on the Roof Auditions, Woodburn Black Box Theatre
• 5:30PM-7PM Meeting People Where They Live: An Evening with James & Deborah Fallows, Meier Hall Auditorium

Nov. 6th

• 5PM-7PM Deep Talks- Live from the BHSU Underground Campus (BHUC) at SURF, Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center

Nov. 11th

• All Day Veteran's Day, No Class

Nov. 15th

• 7PM-8:15PM Jazz Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Help others in the Black Hills…

by giving to local nonprofits who assist in the areas of early education, health, financial stability and basic needs.

Submit a one-time donation or request simple payroll deduction by contacting Sandra Kringen (Woodburn Hall Room 207) or email Sandra.Kringen@bhsu.edu by November 14th.

Learn more or donate directly through the website https://unitedwayblackhills.org/community-giving-campaign/ [Donate Now].

Please plan to attend the November 20th BHSU Town Hall meeting. 

November 20th

Jacket Leagcy Room (upper level of the Student Union)

3:30-4:30 p.m.  

Help keep local children warm this winter by donating to the "Jacket Drive" during the BHSU football game on Saturday, November 1 at 1:00 PM at Lyle Hare Stadium.

We are collecting coats, jackets, hats, mittens, and other winter gear for children in need. Donation boxes will be available at the entrances to the stadium during the game, as well as around campus leading up to the event.

This drive is hosted by the BHSU Sustainability Department and the BHSU Cheer Team.

Let’s come together as a campus community to make a difference for local families this winter.

For questions or to request accommodations, please contact Debbie Liddick at deborah.liddick@bhsu.edu

Thank you for your support!
BHSU Sustainability Department & BHSU Cheer Team 

📣 Staff Professional Development Funds Available!

Are you looking to grow professionally, attend a conference, take a course, or enhance your skills? The Staff Senate is excited to offer Professional Development Funds to support staff in their continued learning and career advancement.

Who Can Apply?
All benefits-eligible staff members are encouraged to apply.

What Can the Funds Be Used For?
Funds may be used for:

• Conference registration or travel
• Workshops or training sessions
• Certification programs
• Educational materials
• Other professional development opportunities

How to Apply:
Ask one of the Staff Senate Senators for more information or use the link below to complete the online application:

https://forms.microsoft.com/r/f0WJ545rSX

Questions?
Reach out to Dawn Hunter, Staff Senate President, for more information or assistance with your application.

📣Let Staff Senate help you invest in your future

Annual CSA and NFE Evaluations

The annual CSA and NFE performance evaluations have been launched through PeopleAdmin.  There are a total of seven steps throughout the evaluation process.  Evaluations are for the calendar year, January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.  Every step may be completed prior to the actual due date and it will then forward on to the next person.  The goals that were set last year should automatically roll over into this year’s evaluation.  When supervisors go into step one to create the plan, please make sure that the correct position description pulls in, as well as goals that were established last year.  Please visit our Knowledge Base article (https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=285) that includes a detailed guide explaining how to complete the entire evaluation process.  Please read through as you are completing your evaluations.  This guide is for both employees and supervisors.  Email notifications/reminders will be coming from hr@sdbor.edu.  This process does not pertain to faculty unless you supervise an NFE or CSA employee.  Please reach out to the HR office at 605-642-6549 if you have any questions.  Thanks!

🎁 Send-A-Thanks with BHSU Staff Senate! 🌍

Celebrate International Thank You Day on January 11th by sending a thoughtful gift to someone who deserves a little extra appreciation!

The BHSU Staff Senate is offering Send-A-Thanks gifts for just $5 each. Whether it’s a colleague, mentor, or friend, this is your chance to brighten someone’s day with a small token of gratitude.

📦 Delivery Date: January 12^th, 2026

📆 Last day to order: December 17^th, 2026
💵 Cost: $5 per gift
📍 Available to all BHSU faculty, staff, and students

🖱️Click the link below to send a thank you:

https://forms.microsoft.com/r/p4a8cJskLx

Let’s spread kindness across campus—one thank-you at a time!

INTRODUCING: JacketAccommodate

Please follow this link to learn more about JacketAccommodate:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=657

Please reach out to BHSU/Disability Services for any questions and/or concerns.

We will roll out this new accommodate process begining next semester, Spring 2026.

Last week to respond-- survey closes on Friday! 

Come help a BHSU student complete a research study

Hello, my name is Taryn Davis, and I am a graduate student enrolled in the Master of Science in Sustainability program at BHSU. I’m conducting research on the feasibility of starting a food scrap composting facility at BHSU as part of a research project to fulfill my degree.

I would like to invite all BHSU students, staff, and faculty to participate in a brief online survey about interest in food scrap composting services. Your input is incredibly valuable and will help me better understand social and financial support towards implementing a composting operation at BHSU.

Survey Details:

🍎 Share your thoughts on food scrap composting

🗳️ Takes less than 10 minutes to complete

✅ Multiple choice questions

🖊️ Anonymous responses

If you are interested in participating in this survey, please submit your responses by 11:59 pm on October 31, 2025. 

To access the survey, please click the following link:

https://bhsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HERvLKvi4gL9Xg

If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to contact me at taryn.davis@yellowjackets.bhsu.edu. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

IRB # H-25-14

IRB Approval Date: September 19, 2025

We have a favor to ask. Would you please send financial aid questions, forms, student inquiries, etc. to BHSUFinancial@BHSU.edu rather than to a specific team member unless you are already working with that person? Using the shared inbox helps us keep track of requests, respond faster, make sure nothing slips through the cracks, and ensure your message gets to the right person quickly, even if someone’s out or tied up with appointments.

We will be onboarding two new financial aid staff members over the next couple of months, and the inbox is a great training tool since it gets such a variety! We really appreciate your help with this! It makes a big difference in keeping things organized and responsive for students, families, faculty, and staff.

Thank you in advance!

To ensure our records remain accurate and up to date, please take a moment to review your directory listing: BHSU Staff/Faculty Directory Confirm that your job title, building and room number, phone number, and any other relevant details are correct. If there is anything that needs updated, please send an email to BHSUHumanResources@bhsu.edu. Thank you!

Travel Reminder  - Agenda copies.  Below is a snippet from the SD State Auditor's Handbook.  Please note the line that states:  Agenda/Conference/Training. 

If an Agenda exists, it must be attached to the Travel Payment Detail form.  If no agenda is available, please state that on the Travel Payment Detail.

TRAVEL VOUCHERS

• Must have original in colored ink or secure electronic signatures of employee & authorized signers under a perjury statement
• Travel vouchers must have:
• Home Station
• Leave and Return Times for each trip
• Destination
• Purpose of Travel
• License Plate # or indicate state or personal
• Original Receipts (if applicable)
• Agenda of Meeting/Conference/Training
• Miscellaneous charges must provide explanation as to why it is a state expense
• Names on detail & coversheet must match or provide explanation of difference
• “Nickname: William going as Dick” or “got married: maiden name changed”
• Can only have 1 out of state travel trip per voucher
• 1 out of state travel trip = leaving home station and returning to your home station

Please join us in welcoming Katelyn Sylvester to BHSU! Katelyn began her role as a Professional Advisor in the Student Success Center on October 22, 2025. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will bring to our students and campus community!

The BHSU Department of Public Safety will be conducting a Campus Safety Walk on Monday, November 3rd at 6:00 PM. This event invites faculty, staff, and students to walk across campus together to identify areas of concern related to campus safety. Feedback gathered during the walk will help the Department of Public Safety and Facilities Services address potential issues and improve our campus environment. Participants are asked to meet at Club Buzz, located in the lower level of the Student Union below the Bookstore. The walk will take approximately one hour, and your participation is greatly appreciated. For questions or more information, please contact the BHSU Department of Public Safety in person or by phone at (605) 642-1300.

Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificates and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science.  

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends. 

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

This FREE full-day business course is open to anyone & provides participants with an overview of business fundamentals, while introducing techniques for evaluating the feasibility of business concepts. Participants are introduced to a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial business concepts and resources available to access start-up capital, technical assistance, contracting opportunities, and more.

Date: Oct. 30th 2025
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: Student Union 205: Crow Peak Conference Room

Registration and a  detailed agenda can be found at https://sdceo.ecenterdirect.com/events/1019124
While the event is free, we ask that interested individuals register so that we can prepare out materials accordingly.

-----

The SD CEO West Women's Business Center, is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

• Monday, November 3: Jason McConnell:
  Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech

How do we strike a balance between encouraging student expression of their own ideas and providing a safe and orderly learning environment? While students do have rights to free expression under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, schools also have legal obligations that may lead them to curtail student expression. This presentation explores the history and future of the delicate balance between student speech and school policy.

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

List of Upcoming Events:

Oct. 28th

• All Day Pop Up Food Pantry, Student Union

Oct. 29th

• 9AM-4PM Women's Business Summit, Lodge at Deadwood

Oct. 31st

• 7PM-9PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 1st

• 7PM-9PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 2st

• 2PM-4PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 3rd

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech, Jonas 110
• 6PM-7PM Campus Safety Walk, Club Buzz

Nov. 4th

• 5PM-7PM Fiddler on the Roof Auditions, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 5th

• 5:30PM-7PM Meeting People Where They Live: An Evening with James & Deborah Fallows, Meier Hall Auditorium

Nov. 6th

• 5PM-7PM Deep Talks- Live from the BHSU Underground Campus (BHUC) at SURF, Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center

Nov. 11th

• All Day Veteran's Day, No Class

Come help a BHSU student complete a research study

Hello, my name is Taryn Davis, and I am a graduate student enrolled in the Master of Science in Sustainability program at BHSU. I’m conducting research on the feasibility of starting a food scrap composting facility at BHSU as part of a research project to fulfill my degree.

I would like to invite all BHSU students, staff, and faculty to participate in a brief online survey about interest in food scrap composting services. Your input is incredibly valuable and will help me better understand social and financial support towards implementing a composting operation at BHSU.

Survey Details:

🍎 Share your thoughts on food scrap composting

🗳️ Takes less than 10 minutes to complete

✅ Multiple choice questions

🖊️ Anonymous responses

If you are interested in participating in this survey, please submit your responses by 11:59 pm on October 31, 2025. 

To access the survey, please click the following link:

https://bhsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HERvLKvi4gL9Xg

If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to contact me at taryn.davis@yellowjackets.bhsu.edu. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

IRB # H-25-14

IRB Approval Date: September 19, 2025

The 2025-2026 BHSU Committee Assignment list is now availalbe on Jacket Connect. 

The following policy/policies have been adopted, revised, or reviewed by the President.

• 4:9 Performance Review and Evaluation

Click Here to view the full Policy & Procedure web page. 

This fall marks the first full semester of complete JSTOR access via their Archival Journals and Primary Sources Collection. This extensive upgrade provides faculty and students with access to all 15 Arts & Sciences Collections and the entire, expanded, Life Sciences Library (up from 2 collections and a segment of only the biological sciences). JSTOR collections include top peer-reviewed scholarly journals as well as respected literary journals, academic monographs, research reports from trusted institutes, and diverse primary sources.  BHSU email and login required (not to be confused with JSTOR Open Access, which houses their free content with no login required). Access via the library A-Z database directory: A-Z Databases , https://libguides.bhsu.edu/az.php

Professor Emeritus David Wolff will give a presentation entitled “Becoming the Gateway to the Black Hills.” This talk will begin with Rapid City’s founding and then discuss the transportation networks, mining projects, and tourist attractions that community boosters backed to make their town the Black Hills’ gateway, or as they often said, the “Denver of the Black Hills.” A book signing will follow. The presentation is sponsored by the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation and the Leland D. Case Library for Western Historical Studies at BHSU. The program is free and open to the public. If you are unable to attend in-person, the talk can also be viewed for free online. To register for the online event, visit www.sdhsf.org/events/. Please direct questions to David.Wolff@bhsu.edu

When: Tuesday, October 21 at 6 p.m.
Where: Jonas Hall 305

The BHSU Department of Public Safety will be conducting a Campus Safety Walk on Monday, November 3rd at 6:00 PM. This event invites faculty, staff, and students to walk across campus together to identify areas of concern related to campus safety. Feedback gathered during the walk will help the Department of Public Safety and Facilities Services address potential issues and improve our campus environment.

Participants are asked to meet at Club Buzz, located in the lower level of the Student Union below the Bookstore. The walk will take approximately one hour, and your participation is greatly appreciated.

For questions or more information, please contact the BHSU Department of Public Safety in person or by phone at (605) 642-1300.

Randy's last day is TODAY!  Please join me in congratulating him in his retirement and thanking him for 34 years of service to Black Hills State University.

Debbie Liddick will serve as our Interim Associate Vice President of Facilities Services until a permanent replacement is hired.

BHSU Staff Senate Meeting

• October 22, 2025
• 10:00 am
• Trump Conference Room

All BHSU staff are welcome to attend either in person or via Teams.

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZGNhMjIwNDYtYTJjOS00MDk3LWJiZjAtNmU5MzAxMGZjZGI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%229bfcf28b-3a11-4fd7-a813-8f519cdb0db2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%220fce668e-e6d5-45bb-8303-5fc95c14bb4c%22%7d

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Professional Advisor
• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Admissions Counselor
• Registration Officer
• Building Maintenance Specialist
• Sr Building Maintenance Worker
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

Come help a BHSU student complete a research study

Hello, my name is Taryn Davis, and I am a graduate student enrolled in the Master of Science in Sustainability program at BHSU. I’m conducting research on the feasibility of starting a food scrap composting facility at BHSU as part of a research project to fulfill my degree.

I would like to invite all BHSU students, staff, and faculty to participate in a brief online survey about interest in food scrap composting services. Your input is incredibly valuable and will help me better understand social and financial support towards implementing a composting operation at BHSU.

Survey Details:

🍎 Share your thoughts on food scrap composting

🗳️ Takes less than 10 minutes to complete

✅ Multiple choice questions

🖊️ Anonymous responses

If you are interested in participating in this survey, please submit your responses by 11:59 pm on October 31, 2025. 

To access the survey, please click the following link:

https://bhsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HERvLKvi4gL9Xg

If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to contact me at taryn.davis@yellowjackets.bhsu.edu. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

IRB # H-25-14

IRB Approval Date: September 19, 2025

Help others in the Black Hills…

by giving to local nonprofits who assist in the areas of early education, health, financial stability and basic needs.

Submit a one-time donation or request simple payroll deduction by contacting Sandra Kringen (Woodburn Hall Room 207) or email Sandra.Kringen@bhsu.edu by November 14th.

Learn more or donate directly through the website https://unitedwayblackhills.org/community-giving-campaign/ [Donate Now].

Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificates and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science.  

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends. 

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

This FREE full-day business course is open to anyone & provides participants with an overview of business fundamentals, while introducing techniques for evaluating the feasibility of business concepts. Participants are introduced to a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial business concepts and resources available to access start-up capital, technical assistance, contracting opportunities, and more.

Date: Oct. 30th 2025
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: Student Union 205: Crow Peak Conference Room

Registration and a  detailed agenda can be found at https://sdceo.ecenterdirect.com/events/1019124
While the event is free, we ask that interested individuals register so that we can prepare out materials accordingly.

-----

The SD CEO West Women's Business Center, is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

• Monday, November 3: Jason McConnell:
  Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech

How do we strike a balance between encouraging student expression of their own ideas and providing a safe and orderly learning environment? While students do have rights to free expression under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, schools also have legal obligations that may lead them to curtail student expression. This presentation explores the history and future of the delicate balance between student speech and school policy.

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

List of Upcoming Events:

Oct. 21st

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual
• 6PM-7PM History Talk: Becoming the Gateway to the Black Hills: Rapid City's Search for Success, Jonas Academic 305

Oct. 22nd

• 3:30PM-4:30PM Faculty Workshop: Online Teaching Foundations-Instructor Presence, Jonas 103A

Oct. 23rd

• 5:30PM-6:45PM 2nd Meeting BHSU Speech & Debate, Jonas 102

Oct. 24th

• 7PM-9PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Oct. 25th

• 8AM-5PM NATS Competition, TBD
• 7PM-9PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Oct. 26th

• 2PM-4PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Oct. 27th

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Who Benefits and Who Loses from Property Tax Changes?, Jonas 110

Oct. 28th

• All Day Pop Up Food Pantry, Student Union

Oct. 29th

• 9AM-4PM Women's Business Summit, Lodge at Deadwood

Oct. 31st

• 7PM-9PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 1st

• 7PM-9PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 2st

• 2PM-4PM Home Is Where Your Clothes Are Theatre Performance, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

Nov. 3rd

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech, Jonas 110
• 6PM-7PM Campus Safety Walk, Club Buzz

Nov. 4th

• 5PM-7PM Fiddler on the Roof Auditions, Woodburn Black Box Theatre

SDRS Retirement Planners will be in Spearfish October 21st and 22nd at the Holiday Inn and are available for individual counseling sessions in person, by phone, or via virutal meeting.  Are you considering retirement in the next 5-10 years?  Are you new to SDRS?  Do you have any questions about your SDRS benefits?  Will you have enough money when you retire?  Wondering what to do and when?  SDRS is here to help you!  To schedule an appointment, contact SDRS at 605-773-3731.  Walk-ins are not guaranteed an appointment.  

• October 21, 2025
• 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. MT
• October 22, 2025
• 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. MT
• Located at the Holiday Inn, I-90 Exit 14, Spearfish, SD

This FREE full-day business course is open to anyone & provides participants with an overview of business fundamentals, while introducing techniques for evaluating the feasibility of business concepts. Participants are introduced to a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial business concepts and resources available to access start-up capital, technical assistance, contracting opportunities, and more.

Date: Oct. 30th 2025
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: Student Union 205: Crow Peak Conference Room

Registration and a  detailed agenda can be found at https://sdceo.ecenterdirect.com/events/1019124
While the event is free, we ask that interested individuals register so that we can prepare out materials accordingly.

-----

The SD CEO West Women's Business Center, is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

Monday, October 27: Dr. Kyle Kopplin:

Who Benefits and Who Loses from Property Tax Changes?

Property taxes have been in the news a lot for South Dakota residents lately. There have been several attempts to limit, reduce, or eliminate property taxes as a funding source for South Dakota’s local fiscal districts, and there are more of these discussions on the horizon. But how much do we know about property taxes in South Dakota? How do they work, what do they do, and where does the money go? Who benefits and who loses from property tax changes? In this talk, we’ll try to consider all points of view on hypothetical restrictions of property taxes, both in the short and long term, for some recent and potential legislative bills. 

• Monday, November 3: Jason McConnell:
  Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech

How do we strike a balance between encouraging student expression of their own ideas and providing a safe and orderly learning environment? While students do have rights to free expression under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, schools also have legal obligations that may lead them to curtail student expression. This presentation explores the history and future of the delicate balance between student speech and school policy.

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificate and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science.  

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends. 

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

On Saturday, October 18^th at 1 PM, the annual Hero Appreciation Football Game will be played at Lyle Hare Stadium.  The Yellow Jackets will be playing CSU-Pueblo.    All Active Duty, Veterans, and Police, Fire and EMS personnel are invited to attend this game.   You will get in free, and would then get (2) two additional free tickets for others you'd like to bring to the game.  Just let them know your status (Active Duty, Veteran, Police, Fire or EMS) at the gate.    

Also on Thursday, October 16^th at 6:30 PM at the Donald Young Center (Field House) the Black Hills State University Athletics Department will be hosting a Hero Appreciation Dinner with the BHSU Football team.    All Active Duty, Veterans, Police Officers, Fireman, and EMS personnel will get to visit with the BHSU players and coaches and have dinner with them.   It's been very well received in years past.  The players and coaches enjoy this event because they get to talk to real life heroes.  

Friends,

Happy midterm! I know this is a terrible week to be sending out this request, and October should be banned completely, but would you consider sharing your expertise or recent conference paper or secret obsessions/geekdom/skill with us for spring semester?  We're in need of Geek Speakers for our weekly series: Mondays from 4:00-5:30 p.m.

We'd love to highlight our BH faculty and staff. Please don't be afraid to offer a Geek Speak of the past, either!

Please send questions/topics my way:  Courtney.HuseWika@BHSU.edu

On October 8, 2025, at 3:45pm a TEST Message for the Campus Alert system was successfully sent out to BHSU and BHSU-RC. If you did not receive it, please follow the registration instructions below or contact the Help Desk at BHSU or BHSU-RC.

To register or update your contact information, please follow these steps:

1. Access the Registration Portal:
   • Use the single sign-on link: Campus Alert Registration
2. Or Download the Campus Alert App:
   • Click the following link: Campus Alert App Download.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to Debbie at Deborah.Liddick@BHSU.edu or Garrett at Garrett.Stevens@BHSU.edu

Winter can be a difficult time of year for a lot of us! The evenings stretch out longer while the daylight slips away. Most find themselves staying inside more to avoid the cold windy weather and many of us are likely to head straight home after a day of work or classes. Spending time with friends and socializing with others can become increasingly difficult. During this time, it is not unusual to feel a bit ‘blah’ as we move from the bright days of fall to the chill of winter. Below are some practical self-care strategies for maintaining well-being during the winter months.

Exercise!

Most of us naturally get more exercise in the summer months. It’s easier to be outside and walk, hike, ride bikes, etc. Exercise has a big impact on our overall mood. Try to maintain some exercise regime during the cold winter months even if that means walking indoors or mixing up your routine with yoga or some other exercise you don’t typically do.

 Nutrition!

Remember to indulge a little in the warmth and foods of winter with a few special treats Perhaps winter is a good time to try some new recipes out. Treat yourself to those cozy winter favorites, just don’t forget to keep some balance on your plate.

Light!

If you’re prone to Vitamin D deficiency, make sure you take your vitamins this time of year. Light is extremely important to our natural circadian system. Research has shown blue light does have a positive impact on people who struggle in managing their mood more in the winter months. It’s a small investment that may show high dividends.

Maintain good sleep!

Give into your need to hibernate a little more. Most people report an increase in their sleep during the winter months! It’s a perfect time to catch up on your sleep or take a relaxing nap on a cold, blistering day. Most of us will increase our sleep in the winter months from 1- 2 hours more at night. However, be careful, too much sleep in the winter can sometimes be a red flag that something more serious is going on.

Socialize.

It’s easy to stay inside our cozy home or space rather than bundling up, warming up the vehicle and venturing out into the cold. Don’t forget the importance of social interactions! Humans are innately social beings! We need some social interaction all year around. Consider meeting up with friends right from work or class prior to going home and settling in for the night. Good company and laughter are great ways to combat the winter blues.

Maintain medications!

Remember, if you’re on medications for depression, be sure to talk to your doctor before stopping these, particularly in the winter months. Your doctor may suggest you wait until spring before tapering off.

Be in the present moment!

Take in the beautiful white landscapes of snow and maybe even a short brisk walk. Make a snowman outside with family and friends or go sledding. Take a short drive around your neighborhood and really take in the beautiful scenery of winter. Sit by your window drinking hot chocolate noticing the winter scenery.

Consider reading a few new books over the winter months!

Winter is a great time to catch up on some reading. Separate yourself from your phone and other electronics and read something that gives you simple pleasure. If you’re not into reading, perhaps putting a puzzle together or playing a board game.

Work on an indoor project!

Winter months are a good time to pick a hot spot in your home or space to declutter or re organize. Perhaps painting or engaging in an art project you’ve been wanting to do.

Turn on the tunes!

Turn off the news and turn on the tunes! Music can be significantly therapeutic. It can often take us away from our present worries and help us to feel a little lighter during a difficult situation. Music can be a great way to start your day or to improve the end of a difficult one.

Watch a funny reel or a short YouTube video of your favorite comedian.

There’s nothing like laughing to help you feel better. Start your day with a short 4–5-minute clip of laughter as you’re getting ready in the morning or driving to work. Laughter is a natural way to increase your brain’s production of endorphins, helping to boost your mood.

Managing the winter blues begins with being intentional about self-care and staying connected. Prioritize getting outside during daylight hours or sitting near natural light to boost your mood and energy. Maintain regular movement and nourish yourself with balanced meals and adequate rest. Stay socially engaged by reaching out to friends or join activities that lift your spirits. Practice mindfulness or gratitude to counter your seasonal lows. Small, consistent efforts can make a meaningful difference in maintaining emotional well-being through the darker months.

 Best wishes on embracing the season! May your winter months be filled with warmth, laughter and healthy self-care!

 Compliments of BHSU Student Health and Counseling Center

Dear Colleagues,

Below, please find the agenda for Wednesday's Faculty Senate Meeting.  These meetings are open to all faculty.

October 15, 2025

Faculty Senate Agenda

3:15 p.m. Swarts Room

1. Approval of 10-1 Minutes
2. Student Senate Representative Updates
3. Post-Tenure Review Policy/BOR visit Update (Dr. Pam Carriveau)
4. Curriculum: Accelerated MBA Program
5. P&T Assignments
6. Library Committee Update
7. Review PSE Appeals Process policy
8. Executive Session

If you have questions, concerns, or ideas for Faculty Senate or its initiatives, please do not hesitate to reach out via email: FacultySenate@BHSU.edu or to your/a representative:

Courtney Huse-Wika: President                                                          

Abigail Domagall: Vice President                                                        

Ryan Amys: Secretary                                                 

College of Natural & Behavioral Sciences

Katrina Jensen: Natural Sciences                                            

Alyssa Call: Behavioral Sciences                                              

Abigail Domagall: College at Large                                         

Combined Colleges of Education & Business

MaryAnn Fleury: Colleges at Large                                         

Ryan Amys: Education                                               

Kyle Kopplin: Business                                                           

College of Liberal Arts

Parthasarathi Nag: Math & Social Sciences                             

Courtney Huse-Wika: Humanities                                                      

Nancy Roberts: College at Large                                             

Justin Bergh: Art                                                                     

Professor Emeritus David Wolff will give a presentation entitled “Becoming the Gateway to the Black Hills.” This talk will begin with Rapid City’s founding and then discuss the transportation networks, mining projects, and tourist attractions that community boosters backed to make their town the Black Hills’ gateway, or as they often said, the “Denver of the Black Hills.” A book signing will follow. The presentation is sponsored by the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation and the Leland D. Case Library for Western Historical Studies at BHSU. The program is free and open to the public. If you are unable to attend in-person, the talk can also be viewed for free online. To register for the online event, visit www.sdhsf.org/events/. Please direct questions to David.Wolff@bhsu.edu

When: Tuesday, October 21 at 6 p.m.
Where: Jonas Hall 305

Professor Emeritus David Wolff will give a presentation entitled “Becoming the Gateway to the Black Hills.” This talk will begin with Rapid City’s founding and then discuss the transportation networks, mining projects, and tourist attractions that community boosters backed to make their town the Black Hills’ gateway, or as they often said, the “Denver of the Black Hills.” A book signing will follow. The presentation is sponsored by the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation and the Case Library for Western Historical Studies at BHSU. The program is free and open to the public. If you are unable to attend in-person, the talk is also available free online. To register for the online event, visit www.sdhsf.org/events/. Please direct questions to David.Wolff@bhsu.edu 

When: Tuesday, October 21 at 6 p.m.
Where: Jonas Hall 305

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Admissions Counselor
• Professional Advisor
• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Financial Aid Advisor
• TRIO Professional Advisor
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Adjunct Instructor - Business

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

Come help a BHSU student complete a research study

Hello, my name is Taryn Davis, and I am a graduate student enrolled in the Master of Science in Sustainability program at BHSU. I’m conducting research on the feasibility of starting a food scrap composting facility at BHSU as part of a research project to fulfill my degree.

I would like to invite all BHSU students, staff, and faculty to participate in a brief online survey about interest in food scrap composting services. Your input is incredibly valuable and will help me better understand social and financial support towards implementing a composting operation at BHSU.

Survey Details:

🍎 Share your thoughts on food scrap composting

🗳️ Takes less than 10 minutes to complete

✅ Multiple choice questions

🖊️ Anonymous responses

If you are interested in participating in this survey, please submit your responses by 11:59 pm on October 31, 2025. 

To access the survey, please click the following link:

https://bhsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HERvLKvi4gL9Xg

If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to contact me at taryn.davis@yellowjackets.bhsu.edu. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

IRB #H-25-14

IRB Approval Date: September 19, 2025

Faculty and staff have the opportunity to access free online certificate and learning programs through the Skill Forward initiative, a partnership between the Association of Women’s Business Centers, edX, and Verizon. With courses offered by top institutions like Harvard and MIT, participants can earn professional certifications to showcase on LinkedIn or simply enjoy valuable lifelong learning. Topics range from leadership and communication, personal finance, nutrition, marketing, cybersecurity, managing employees, to project management, AI, and data science. 

Register and activate by November 20, 2025, to receive one year of free scholarship access. Learn more and get started here: www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/SkillForward. Resource may also be shared with family and friends.

Questions? Reach out to Elizabeth Freer (Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu) or contact SD CEO West. 

Midterm grades are due at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22. The DEF midterm grade will no longer be used. All undergraduate course grades must be reported A,B,C,D,F for classes with an instructional method type of:

• A – Studio
• D – Discussion
• E – Seminar
• F – Small Group
• L – Laboratory
• O – Orientation
• P – Physical Education Activity
• R – Lecture

Block classes (classes that do not run the full term) and graduate classes are exempt. Midterm grades can be entered through D2L or Banner Self-Service. Detailed instructions were sent to faculty emails. If you did not receive an email or have questions, contact April.Meeker@bhsu.edu. 

This FREE full-day business course is open to anyone & provides participants with an overview of business fundamentals, while introducing techniques for evaluating the feasibility of business concepts. Participants are introduced to a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial business concepts and resources available to access start-up capital, technical assistance, contracting opportunities, and more.

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Agenda

8:30 - 8:50 am: Welcome and Introductions
8:50 - 9:30 am: Intro to Business Ownership
9:30 - 9:35 am: Break
9:35 - 10:15 am: Basics of Opportunity Recognition
10:15 - 10:20 am: Break
10:20 - 11:10 am: Understanding Markets & Your Competitive Space
11:10 am - 12 pm: Legal Considerations for Veteran-owned Small Businesses
12:00 - 12:45 pm: Lunch On Your Own
12:45 - 1:25 pm: Intro to Business Planning
1:25 - 2:10 pm: Economics of Small Business Start-up
1:20 - 2:15 pm: Break
2:15 - 3:00 pm: Financing Your Venture
3:00 - 3:30 pm: Resources to Support Your Efforts
3:30 - 3:45 pm: Q&A/Close

Registration and a more detailed agenda can be found at https://sdceo.ecenterdirect.com/events/1019124
While the event is free, we ask that interested individuals register so that we can prepare out materials accordingly.

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The SD CEO West Women's Business Center, is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.

Happy Autumn, BHSU Instructors! 

Do you have upcoming assignments that require student research or library use?  

Would you like your students to be comfortable navigating a particular database? 

I would love the opportunity to work with you and your class. I offer hands-on library tours, introductory tutorials and library instruction sessions.  Each session can be tailored to the learning outcomes you find most valuable.  

I generally schedule sessions at least one week in advance. Feel free to contact Sara B. Freng with any questions or ideas you may have. 

Let’s collaborate! 

The Send-a-Thanks platform was developed for employees to be able to send a special thank you, or kudos, to one of their colleagues across campus.  Employees who receive a send-a-thanks are entered in to a monthly drawing for either a Bookstore gift card or a mug and gift card courtesy of Einstein's. We would like to give a shout out to the recipients who have received a kudos!  Recent recipients were:

If you would like to send a special recognition to someone please click the quick link on the main e-Update email.

Thank you all for everything you do!

Facilities Services has four black stand-up desk risers available for free to any staff or faculty who would like one for their office.

If you are interested, please contact Facilities Services at 642-6244. They will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis, and we can deliver one to your office.

Thank you,
Facilities Services

SDRS Retirement Planners will be in Spearfish October 21st and 22nd at the Holiday Inn and are available for individual counseling sessions in person, by phone, or via virutal meeting.  Are you considering retirement in the next 5-10 years?  Are you new to SDRS?  Do you have any questions about your SDRS benefits?  Will you have enough money when you retire?  Wondering what to do and when?  SDRS is here to help you!  To schedule an appointment, contact SDRS at 605-773-3731.  Walk-ins are not guaranteed an appointment.  

• October 21, 2025
• 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. MT
• October 22, 2025
• 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. MT
• Located at the Holiday Inn, I-90 Exit 14, Spearfish, SD

If you need to contact a Campus Public Safety Officer, please use the following numbers:

• BHSU (Spearfish Campus): 605-641-6988
• BHSU-RC (Rapid City Campus): 605-631-0977

Please save these numbers for quick reference.

Please join us on Mondays for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak lecture series:  lectures for the geeks in all of us.

These are at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas Academic #110 and are free and open to the public. 

• Monday, October 20: Dr. Andrey Reznikov:

English has been declared the official language of the United States. What does this mean?

The vast majority of countries in the world have an official language (or languages). Up until recently (March 1, 2025) United States was one of the few countries that did not have an official language. This presentation will analyze the concept of official language and arguments both for and against it.

• Monday, October 27: Dr. Kyle Kopplin:

Who Benefits and Who Loses from Property Tax Changes?

Property taxes have been in the news a lot for South Dakota residents lately. There have been several attempts to limit, reduce, or eliminate property taxes as a funding source for South Dakota’s local fiscal districts, and there are more of these discussions on the horizon. But how much do we know about property taxes in South Dakota? How do they work, what do they do, and where does the money go? Who benefits and who loses from property tax changes? In this talk, we’ll try to consider all points of view on hypothetical restrictions of property taxes, both in the short and long term, for some recent and potential legislative bills. 

• Monday, November 3: Jason McConnell:
  Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech

How do we strike a balance between encouraging student expression of their own ideas and providing a safe and orderly learning environment? While students do have rights to free expression under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, schools also have legal obligations that may lead them to curtail student expression. This presentation explores the history and future of the delicate balance between student speech and school policy.

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story

Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

List of Upcoming Events:

Oct. 7th

• 3:30PM-4:45PM Workshop: Civil Discourse in the Classroom, Jonas Room 103A (RSVP for Online Option)
• 5PM-7PM Chris Combs Desperate Remedy/Little Ones Exhibition, Student Union Ruddell Gallery

Oct. 8th

• 4PM-5PM Origami Workshop, International Office (Woodburn Hall 115)

Oct. 9th

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual

Oct. 10th

• 7PM-8:15PM Band Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 11th

• 7PM-8PM Emma Gollivaux Senior Vocal Recital, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 12th

• 2PM-3:15PM Jazz Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 13th

• Indigenous Peoples' Day No Class

Oct. 19th

• 2PM-3:15PM Orchestra Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 20th

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: English has been declared the official language of the United States. What does this mean? Jonas Academic 110

Oct. 21st

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual
• 6PM-7PM History Talk: Becoming the Gateway to the Black Hills: Rapid City's Search for Success, Jonas Academic 305

Event Title: Civil Discourse in the Classroom: support engaged, difficult conversations across disciplines

Description: Recent surveys of college students suggest we have a communication problem on US campuses. Students appear less comfortable disagreeing with each other than they used to be and more likely to self-censor rather than speak up. At the same time, faculty are wary of covering controversial topics in class. And yet, we know that we must connect our curriculum to the issues that matter most to our students, and we know our students need to practice with productive dialogue across ideological divides.

Join this workshop to explore civil discourse in the classroom with Jason McConnell, Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at BHSU.

Where: JA 103A (Center for Faculty Innovation) or RSVP for online option

When: Tuesday, Oct 7, 3:30pm-4:45pm

RSVP For Civil Discourse in the Classroom

For more information on events sponsored by the Center for Faculty Innovation, visit CFI BHSU Community Site.

Come support the Lakota Omniciye Indian Taco Sale fundraiser.

Tacos will be sold 10/01/2025 under the BHSU Student Union bookstore at 11 am until sold out.

All proceeds will support the annual Wacipi held in April 2026. Thank you!

This year we are hosting two events related to the 2025 Sanford Underground Research Facility Artist-in-Residence (SURF AiR), Chris Combs!

Thursday, October 2 - Deep Talk Lecture @ SURF Visitors Center in Lead

5:00-7:00pm (social hour with heavy appetizers from 5:00-6:00, Talk @ 6:00pm)

https://sanfordlab.org/events/deep-talks-art-invisible-air-chris-combs

Tuesday, October 7 - Ruddell Gallery Art Reception @ BHSU 

5:00-7:00pm (light snacks provided)

The SURF AiR Program is a formal partnership between BHSU and SURF. Chris Combs, SURF 2025 Artist in Residence, is a DC based artist. Through interactive and time-based sculptures made with found objects, metal, wood, and materials from SURF, Combs explores the mysterious world of neutrinos—particles that are invisible, omnipresent, and nearly massless.

SDRS Retirement Planners will be in Spearfish October 21st and 22nd at the Holiday Inn and are available for individual counseling sessions in person, by phone, or via virutal meeting.  Are you considering retirement in the next 5-10 years?  Are you new to SDRS?  Do you have any questions about your SDRS benefits?  Will you have enough money when you retire?  Wondering what to do and when?  SDRS is here to help you!  To schedule an appointment, contact SDRS at 605-773-3731.  Walk-ins are not guaranteed an appointment.  

• October 21, 2025
• 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. MT
• October 22, 2025
• 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. MT
• Located at the Holiday Inn, I-90 Exit 14, Spearfish, SD

🥞 It’s $5 Friday Time! 🍽️
Join us this Friday, October 3rd in The Hive for a delicious breakfast or lunch with your co-workers—all for just $5!

This monthly tradition is a great way to connect with colleagues while enjoying a tasty meal at a great price. Don’t miss out!

📌 Reminders:

• 💳 The Hive is cashless—please pay with a credit card, debit card, or Buzz Bucks.
• 🐝 The $5 meal deal is only available at The Hive—Einstein’s is not included.
• 🆔 Show your Buzz Card to the cashier to identify yourself as faculty or staff.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 $5 Friday is a benefit for employees—family members and guests will be charged regular prices.

🙏 A big thank you to Ron and all the dining services staff for supporting Strategic Plan Goal 3 and making this benefit possible for our campus community.

See you at The Hive!

Campus Alert System Test – October
In early October, we will send a test message through the Campus Alert system. If you do not receive it, please follow the registration steps or contact the Help Desk.

About the Campus Alert System
The Campus Alert system (Everbridge) provides emergency notifications to all BHSU and BHRC faculty, staff, and students through voice, text, and email. Alerts include:

• Severe weather warnings and winter storm closures/delays
• Campus lockdowns and safety threats
• Power outages and utility interruptions
• Emergency building closures and class cancellations

How to Enroll

1. Visit the BHSU website.
2. Search “BHSU Campus Alert.”
3. Follow the sign-up instructions or manage your settings.

Mobile App
Download the Everbridge app from the Apple Store or Google Play. Log in with your BHSU credentials and enable notifications.

Need Help?

• Email: Deborah.Liddick@BHSU.edu or Garrett.Stevens@BHSU.edu
• Contact the BHRC or BHSU Help Desk

Enrolling in Everbridge ensures you receive timely safety and emergency updates, even if you are off campus.

Effective October 1, 2025, the Mileage Reimbursement rates will be changing as shown below.  All other lodging and meals rates are unchanged, and all rules, policies, and procedures remain the same.

Type                                                                  Rate

High Mileage                                                      $0.70/mile

Low Mileage                                                       $0.315/mile

High Special Needs Mileage                              $0.91/mile

Low Special Needs Mileage                               $0.70/mile

List of Upcoming Events:

Sept. 30th

• 5PM-7PM BHSU-Rapid City Open House, BHSU-Rapid City (4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD 57719)

Oct. 6th

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: The Portrayal of War in Japanese Animation, Jonas Academic 110

Oct. 7th

• 5PM-7PM Chris Combs Desperate Remedy/Little Ones Exhibition, Student Union Ruddell Gallery

Oct. 8th

• 4PM-5PM Origami Workshop, International Office (Woodburn Hall 115)

Oct. 9th

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual

Oct. 10th

• 7PM-8:15PM Band Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 11th

• 7PM-8:00PM Emma Gollivaux Senior Vocal Recital, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 12th

• 2PM-3:15PM Jazz Concert, Meier Recital Hall

Oct. 13th

• Indigenous Peoples' Day No Class

The Black Hills State University Sustainability Department will be hosting a Community and Campus E-Waste Drive, on Thursday, Oct 2, from 8AM to 3PM! Bring your unwanted electronics to the Facilities Services Building during the event.

Items Accepted & Fees:

• CRTs – $10
• MacBooks – $10
• Large Printers – $10
• Smart Boards – $50
• Stand-alone Copiers – $50
• TVs – $50
• Hard Drives (outside computers) – $5
• Large Appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, etc.) – $50

Hosted by: BHSU Sustainability
Questions? Contact Debbie Liddick at (605) 642-6560 or Deborah.Liddick@BHSU.edu

Thursday, Oct 2, 8am-3pm

The Black Hills State University Sustainability Department will be hosting a Community and Campus E-Waste Drive! Bring your unwanted electronics to the Facilities Services Building during the event.

Items Accepted & Fees:

• CRTs – $10

• MacBooks – $10

• Large Printers – $10

• Smart Boards – $50

• Stand-alone Copiers – $50

• TVs – $50

• Hard Drives (outside computers) – $5

• Large Appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, etc.) – $50

Hosted by: BHSU Sustainability
Questions? Contact Debbie Liddick at (605) 642-6560 or Deborah.Liddick@BHSU.edu 

BHSU faculty and staff are invited to celebrate the partnership between Black Hills State University, South Dakota State University College of Nursing, and Monument Health at BHSU – Rapid City on September 30.

Grand Opening Ceremony: 3 p.m.

• The ceremony will feature several speakers, including Presidents and representatives from BHSU and SDSU, the South Dakota Board of Regents, and Monument Health. Legislators, local government officials, healthcare executives, and project contractors/architects will also be in attendance, along with appearances by Sting and Jack.

Open House/Reception: 5–7 p.m.

• This is an opportunity for community members, alumni, supporters, and faculty/staff to get an inside look at the addition and renovation of BHSU – Rapid City. 

BHSU – Rapid City is located at 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD, 57719.

Facilities Services has reserved vans to provide transportation to Rapid City for anyone that would like to attend. Please reach out to Roxanne Harrowa at 6244 or Roxanne.Harrowa@BHSU.edu to reserve your spot. 

🐝 Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Swarm Days Office Decorating Contest! The creativity and team spirit on display made it a close race, and it was great to see so much hive pride throughout our offices.

This year’s winner is… 🏆 The Registrar’s Office! Congratulations, and thank you again to all who joined in and helped make the contest a success.

Please join us on Monday, September 29 for Geek Speak!

PrasanthiPallapu: Languages of South India

India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Hundreds of languages and dialects are spoken throughout India. This presentation will explore the four Dravidian languages of South India. By the end of the talk, participants will be able to understand the differences/similarities in the script and sound. The presentation will also share different types of clothing and other cultural elements.

These lectures are held at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas 110 and are free and open to the public and all faculty, staff, and students.

List of Upcoming Events:

Sept. 23rd

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual
• 7PM-9PM Movie on The Football Field, Lyle Hare Stadium

Sept. 24th

• 3:30PM-5:30PM Kiddie Carnival, Club Buzz (Student Union)
• 4PM-5PM Ikebana (Japanese Flower Arrangement) Workshop, International Office (Woodburn 115)
• 4PM-6PM Hike to The H, Campus Green (Outside The Student Union)
• 5PM-9PM Boogie Shoes Disco, Matthews Opera House

Sept. 25th

• 12PM-2PM Scholarship Luncheon, Joy (Proctor) Krautschun Alumni/Foundation Welcome Center
• 5PM-7PM Artist Reception "Home-Land" Exhibition, Ruddell Gallery (Student Union)
• 6:30PM-9PM Coronation & Burning of The BH, Clare & Josef Meier Hall & Meier Hall Circle
• 9PM-10:30PM Glow in The Dark Games & S'mores, The Peaks Complex Recreation Area

Sept. 26th

• 8AM-4PM South Dakota Festival of Books, On Campus
• 11AM-1PM Alumni Awards Luncheon, Joy (Proctor) Krautschun Alumni/Foundation Welcome Center
• 1PM-2PM Home-Land: Artist Talk, Club Buzz
• 3:30PM-9PM Parade Float Prep, Field House (Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center)
• 6PM-8PM BH Volleyball Game VS. CO Christian, Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center
• 6PM-8PM Hall of Fame Banquet, Jacket Legacy Room (Student Union)
• 7PM-9PM "10:15 Salem Park" Movie Showing, Jonas Academic 305

Sept. 27th

• 8AM-4PM South Dakota Festival of Books, On Campus
• 10AM-12PM SWARM Days Parade, Off Campus (Hillsview Rd. - W Grant St.)
• 11:15AM-1PM Tailgate Social, Parking Lot (Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center)
• 1PM-4:30PM BH Football Game VS. CO Mines, Lyle Hare Stadium
• 6PM-8PM BH Volleyball Game VS. CSU Pueblo, Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center

Sept. 29th

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Languages of South India, Jonas Academic 110

Sept. 30th

• 5PM-7PM BHSU-Rapid City Open House, BHSU-Rapid City (4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD 57719)

Oct. 6th

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: The Portrayal of War in Japanese AnimationI, Jonas Academic 110

Come support the Lakota Omniciye Indian Taco Sale fundraiser.

Tacos will be sold 10/01/2025 under the BHSU Student Union bookstore at 11 am until sold out.

All proceeds will support the annual Wacipi held in April 2026. Thank you!

On Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Joy Center on the campus of BHSU in Spearfish, SD, the non-profit Association of National Park Rangers (ANPR) is sponsoring a special program entitled "The History and Future of America's Public Land" to be presented by retired park professional Walt Dabney. This event is free and open to the public.

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Admissions Counselor
• Professional Advisor
• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Financial Aid Advisor
• TRIO Professional Advisor
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Adjunct Instructor - Business

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

I am pleased to share that TRIO Student Support Services is welcoming a new Professional Advisor to our team. Please join me in congratulating and welcoming Alyssa Jankord. Alyssa brings an understanding of admissions and institutional knowledge as a BHSU Alumni. We are excited to benefit from her insight and experience. We are confident that she will make a meaningful impact as she works closely with TRIO students to support their academic and personal success. Please join us in giving Alyssa a warm welcome as she steps into this important role!

BHSU's Exercise Science Club is excited to be hosting the first of this year's Vitalent Blood Drives on campus!

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

WHERE: JOY CENTER (1351 St. Joe Street)

Please use the link below to schedule your blood donation appointment:

https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwa/appointment/guest/phl/timeSlotsExtr?token=uL2udT9XQXozpnEt6bEB8NtHI4U8Li6jMrLq5Zjv%2BFg%3D

Help patients in need and receive a special treat. Are you spooky or sweet? When you donate September 22-30, Vitalent will thank you with a special Halloween treat! Select from one of two glow-in-the-dark T-shirts via online order in the Rewards store and get it in time for Halloween. PLUS, you'll be entered for a chance to win one of two $10,000 gift cards* Donor Rewards program opt-in is required to redeem t-shirt in online store. While supplies last.

Please join us in Jonas 110 at 4:00 p.m. on Mondays for Geek Speak!  Hosted by the University Honors Program, these lectures are free and open to all faculty, staff, students, and community members.

• Monday, Sept 29: PrasanthiPallapu: Languages of South India

India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Hundreds of languages and dialects are spoken throughout India. This presentation will explore the four Dravidian languages of South India. By the end of the talk, participants will be able to understand the differences/similarities in the script and sound. The presentation will also share different types of clothing and other cultural elements.

• Monday, October 6: Yukari Tadano: The Portrayal of War in Japanese Animation

We will explore how Japanese animation portrays war, using several notable anime works as reference points. The Geek Speak will focus on the distinctive emphasis on personal loss, moral ambiguity, and the destruction of innocence, rather than solely on battlefield brutality.

• Monday, October 20: Dr. Andrey Reznikov: English has been declared the official language of the United States. What does this mean?

The vast majority of countries in the world have an official language (or languages). Up until recently (March 1, 2025) United States was one of the few countries that did not have an official language. This presentation will analyze the concept of official language and arguments both for and against it.

• Monday, October 27: Dr. Kyle Kopplin: Who Benefits and Who Loses from Property Tax Changes?

Property taxes have been in the news a lot for South Dakota residents lately. There have been several attempts to limit, reduce, or eliminate property taxes as a funding source for South Dakota’s local fiscal districts, and there are more of these discussions on the horizon. But how much do we know about property taxes in South Dakota? How do they work, what do they do, and where does the money go? Who benefits and who loses from property tax changes? In this talk, we’ll try to consider all points of view on hypothetical restrictions of property taxes, both in the short and long term, for some recent and potential legislative bills. 

BHSU faculty and staff are invited to celebrate the partnership between Black Hills State University, South Dakota State University College of Nursing, and Monument Health at BHSU – Rapid City on September 30.

Grand Opening Ceremony: 3 p.m.

• The ceremony will feature several speakers, including Presidents and representatives from BHSU and SDSU, the South Dakota Board of Regents, and Monument Health. Legislators, local government officials, healthcare executives, and project contractors/architects will also be in attendance, along with appearances by Sting and Jack.

Open House/Reception: 5–7 p.m.

• This is an opportunity for community members, alumni, supporters, and faculty/staff to get an inside look at the addition and renovation of BHSU – Rapid City. 

BHSU – Rapid City is located at 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD, 57719.

For more information, contact Kathy.Johnson@BHSU.edu.

🎉 You're Invited: BHSU Faculty & Staff Picnic! 🎉
Let’s celebrate the start of a new academic year with great food, fun entertainment, and fantastic company!

📅 Date: Wednesday, September 17th
📍 Location: Joy Center
🕓 Schedule:

• Social Hour and Entertainment: Begins at 4:00 PM
• Dinner and Door Prizes: 5:00 PM

🍽️ Picnic Menu Highlights:
Enjoy a hearty and delicious spread featuring:

• Beef Pot Roast Sandwiches with au jus
• Smoked Chicken Legs
• Dutch Oven Potatoes
• Baked Beans
• Fresh Salad with Dressing
• Bread
• Fruit Bowl
• Mini Dessert Bar

🎶 Entertainment & Activities:

• Live performances by the BHSU Drum Line and Brass Ensemble
• Say hello to Sting, our beloved mascot
• Play your heart out with Giant Yard Games
• Snap memories at the Photo Booth
• Get creative with Face Painting and Balloon Animals
• Door Prizes start at 5:00 PM—don’t miss your chance to win!

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with colleagues, relax, and enjoy the vibrant BHSU community. We can’t wait to see you there! 💛💚

This fall marks the first full semester of complete JSTOR access via their Archival Journals and Primary Sources Collection. This extensive upgrade provides faculty and students with access to all 15 Arts & Sciences Collections and the entire, expanded, Life Sciences Library (up from 2 A&S collections and a segment of only the biological sciences). JSTOR collections include top peer-reviewed scholarly journals as well as respected literary journals, academic monographs, research reports from trusted institutes, and diverse primary sources.  BHSU email and login required (not to be confused with the JSTOR Open Access database, which houses their free content, with no login required). Access via the library A-Z database directory: A-Z Databases , https://libguides.bhsu.edu/az.php

September 17, 2025
Faculty Senate Agenda
3:15 p.m. in Swarts Room

1. 9-3-25 Minutes were approved by email vote on Wednesday, September 10.
2. October 1 Senate Meeting Room TBA
3. Material for the September 25 BOR/Senate zoom meeting 
1. Bragging Points
1. What faculty are/have been doing
2. Potential policy or initiative questions and/or general concerns
4. Suggested change in library hours and discussion of library committee revival (with Michael Tolan and Tina Van Kley) 
5. Executive Session

If you have questions, concerns, or ideas for Faculty Senate or its initiatives, please do not hesitate to reach out via email: FacultySenate@BHSU.edu or to your/a representative:                               

College of Natural & Behavioral Sciences

Katrina Jensen: Natural Sciences                                 

Alyssa Call: Behavioral Sciences                                   

Abigail Domagall: College at Large                              

Combined Colleges of Education & Business

Mary Ann Fleury: Colleges at Large                              

Ryan Amys: Education                                       

Kyle Kopplin: Business                                      

College of Liberal Arts

Parthasarathi Nag: Math & Social Sciences                            

Courtney Huse-Wika: Humanities                                         

Nancy Roberts: College at Large                                  

Justin Bergh: Art       

📆BHSU Staff Senate Meeting📆

• Wednesday, September 17th
• 10:00 am
• Trump Room

📣All staff are welcome to attend in person or via Teams:

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZGNhMjIwNDYtYTJjOS00MDk3LWJiZjAtNmU5MzAxMGZjZGI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%229bfcf28b-3a11-4fd7-a813-8f519cdb0db2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%220fce668e-e6d5-45bb-8303-5fc95c14bb4c%22%7d

The Swarm Days Committee is inviting offices to participate in this year’s Office Decorating Contest, taking place during Swarm Days, September 22–27. This year’s theme is “Stayin' Alive in the Hive,” and we encourage offices across campus to join in the festivities.

To participate, please complete this form https://forms.office.com/r/xAPL5NTygw by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 22. Offices should be fully decorated by this time to be eligible for judging.

Judging criteria will include:

• Best representation of the “Stayin' Alive in the Hive” theme

• Creativity

• Effort

If you have any questions, please contact Jessie.Gramm@bhsu.edu.

We look forward to seeing your creativity on display during Swarm Days!

Please join us on Mondays for Geek Speak, hosted by the University Honors Program.  These lectures are free and open to all faculty, staff, students, and community members.

Location and time:  Jonas 110 at 4:00 p.m.

• Monday, Sept 22: Antawn Knight: The Power of Leadership with Antawn Knight

Have you ever wanted to be a leader that people follow because they genuinely want to, rather than having to follow? Join award-winning leadership instructor and best-selling author Antawn Knight for an engaging session designed to empower leaders at every stage.

You’ll discover:

• The L.E.A.D. Model: A field-tested leadership framework that delivers results, rooted in real-world military, business, and professional experience.
• The Power of Clarity: How clear communication fuels decisive leadership and inspires teams.
• Leaving a Leadership Legacy: Transform Your Impact into a Legacy That Outlives You at Work, School, and Beyond.

You will walk away with practical strategies and confidence to lead out loud in your daily life and future career.

• Monday, Sept 29: PrasanthiPallapu: Languages of South India

India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Hundreds of languages and dialects are spoken throughout India. This presentation will explore the four Dravidian languages of South India. By the end of the talk, participants will be able to understand the differences/similarities in the script and sound. The presentation will also share different types of clothing and other cultural elements.

List of Upcoming Events:

Sept. 16th

• 1-4PM 2025 BHSU Accounting Fair, Jacket Legacy Room (Student Union)

Sept. 20th

• 9AM-1PM Northern Hills Marching Exhibition, Lyle Hare Stadium Field House

Sept. 22nd

• 4PM-5:30PM The Power of Leadership with Antawn Knight, Jonas Academic 110

Sept. 23rd

• 5PM-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual

Sept. 24th

• 4PM-5PM Ikebana (Japanese Flower Arrangement) Workshop, International Office (Woodburn 115)

Sept. 25th

• 5PM-7PM Artist Reception "Home-Land" Exhibition, Ruddell Gallery (Student Union)

Sept. 26th

• 8AM-4PM South Dakota Festival of Books, On Campus
• 1PM-2PM Home-Land: Artist Talk, Club Buzz

Sept. 27th

• 8AM-4PM South Dakota Festival of Books, On Campus

Sept. 29th

• 4PM-5:30PM Geek Speak: Languages of South India, Jonas Academic 110

Sept. 30th

• 5PM-7PM BHSU-Rapid City Open House, BHSU-Rapid City (4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD 57719)

📣 Staff Professional Development Funds Available!

Are you looking to grow professionally, attend a conference, take a course, or enhance your skills? The Staff Senate is excited to offer Professional Development Funds to support staff in their continued learning and career advancement.

Who Can Apply?
All benefits-eligible staff members are encouraged to apply.

What Can the Funds Be Used For?
Funds may be used for:

• Conference registration or travel
• Workshops or training sessions
• Certification programs
• Educational materials
• Other professional development opportunities

How to Apply:
Ask one of the Staff Senate Senators for more information or use the link below to complete the online application:

https://forms.microsoft.com/r/f0WJ545rSX

Questions?
Reach out to Dawn Hunter, Staff Senate President, for more information or assistance with your application.

📣Let Staff Senate help you invest in your future!

BHSU faculty and staff are invited to celebrate the partnership between Black Hills State University, South Dakota State University College of Nursing, and Monument Health at BHSU – Rapid City on September 30.

Grand Opening Ceremony: 3 p.m.

• The ceremony will feature several speakers, including Presidents and representatives from BHSU and SDSU, the South Dakota Board of Regents, and Monument Health. Legislators, local government officials, healthcare executives, and project contractors/architects will also be in attendance, along with appearances by Sting and Jack.

Open House/Reception: 5–7 p.m.

• This is an opportunity for community members, alumni, supporters, and faculty/staff to get an inside look at the addition and renovation of BHSU – Rapid City. 

BHSU – Rapid City is located at 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD, 57719.

For more information, contact Kathy.Johnson@BHSU.edu.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a state of awareness, where you stop to take notice of your thoughts, and feelings without judgement. It’s the practice of purposely bringing attention to the present moment. Mindfulness has many possible benefits such as lowering your overall stress, improving your ability to manage your emotions, strengthening your relationships by allowing yourself to be a better listener and enabling you to take pause to think before responding. Practicing being mindful is a great way to give us a sense of inner calmness and stability throughout our workday.

Tips to practice mindfulness:

1. Practicing mindfulness requires that you purchase nothing! All you need is quiet space.
2. Remember the goal is not to clear your mind of all thoughts. There’s no superior alternative state of mind that we are seeking. Your mind WILL wander and that’s o.k. Just keep bringing yourself back to the present moment. Use a deep breathe anchor yourself back and to keep coming back again and again if need be.
3. As you practice mindfulness, remember to observe your thoughts without judging yourself. This can be the trick part for most of us. Just take notice of your thought and return back to the present moment.

How do you implement mindfulness into your daily life? Implementing a new skill always takes time and practice. You can practice being mindful wherever you are. Try walking slowly from your car into your office. As you walk, focus on feeling the ground beneath your feet, feel the air against your skin, listen to the cars driving by, birds chirping or the leaves rustling.  Take notice of your specific surroundings using your sight, smell, and other senses. As you sit down at your desk for the day, slowly take a drink of your coffee or morning beverage, savoring the taste.  Take a few minutes throughout your day to slow down, observe your thoughts without judging, breathe and feel your body.  Practicing mindfulness can be an effective way of managing your overall stress and can help us to enjoy the present moment rather than mindlessly pushing through our day.

Self-Care Tip, Courtesy of BHSU Student Health and Counseling Services

Our mission

We strive to create better writers. Rather than offering editing services, we work with students to strengthen all aspects of their writing process to help them gain confidence in writing and in the texts that they produce. With that in mind, we begin where they do: from the beginning stages of writing to final polishing.

Through collaborative dialogue, we aim to help students gain necessary writing skills that they can utilize in the classroom and beyond. Writing is a part of our daily lives, and we believe that writing, combined with critical thinking, is an essential skill in all professional fields as well as in personal interactions. Effective writing fosters clarity of thought, strength of conviction, and engaged citizenship. Therefore, we work with writers at all levels to increase their access and ability to contribute to the larger global community.

Services for faculty

• In-class visits: Let us introduce our services to your students every semester.
• Client Reports: following every appointment, the consultant composes a brief narrative of the session.
  • Students can indicate on their appointment to have the client report sent to the instructor as evidence of their attendance. The client report also provides the instructor valuable information about what was discussed and the students level of participation.
• Guest lectures: in-class workshops on writing skills and conventions: Grammar, sentence construction, paragraphs, thesis, topic sentences, incorporating outside sources, documenting sources, MLA, APA, Chicago Style. We can accommodate your needs for other writing issues too.
  • Excellent alternative to cancelling classes if you’re going to a conference or have any planned absence. We can fill in and use the class time productively.

For any questions or to schedule a visit or lecture, please contact Matthew.Bauman@BHSU.edu. 

JacketHub attendance reports are due by 10:59 PM tomorrow (Wednesday, September 10th). 

For students for whom you do have a concern, please leave a comment. Mark all other students "no" or not at risk. Although there is an area to mark grades and absences, this information is not required.

These reports are a vital. They:

• Communicate your expectations early to students who are underperforming
• Allow for withdrawal of absentee students, minimizing student and institutional financial impacts
• Help advisors intervene with struggling students before it's too late

The Registrar will begin withdrawing students reported on Wednesday, but we've already had multiple successes identifying students who need help or left the University without notice - thank you!

Please email Janette Hettick-Waltz, Director of the Student Success Center, if you have questions or need help – Janette.Hettick@bhsu.edu.

Check out these BHSU job openings! Please share with anyone you know that might be interested!

• Admissions Counselor
• Assistant Track & Cross Country Coach
• Professional Advisor
• Student Transition Program Coordinator
• Financial Aid Advisor
• TRIO Professional Advisor
• Senior Secretary
• Adjunct Instructor - Studio Art
• Adjunct Instructor - Business

Staff and Faculty job listings can be found here: https://www.bhsu.edu/About-BHSU/Employment-Opportunities.

Human Resources recently sent out conflict of interest emails to NFE and Faculty employees.  Please be watching for an email from HR@SDBOR.EDU with a subject line of "Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form."  This email is not spam and you will continue to get reminders until you have clicked on the link and completed it.  Please don't hesitate to reach out to Cassie Maser at cassie.maser@bhsu.edu if you have any questions.

Thanks!

List of Upcoming Events:

Sept. 10th

• 9:30AM-12:30PM Free Student Headshot Event, E.Y Berry Library Photo Studio (Basement of E.Y. Berry Library
• 4-5PM Calligraphy Workshop, International Office (Woodburn Hall 115)

Sept. 11th

• 5-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual

Sept. 14th

• 2-3PM Faculty Flute Recital, Clare and Josef Meier Hall (Recital Hall)

Sept. 15th

• 4-5:30PM Geek Speak: "The Special Meaning of Kinship: Grandmothers of the Lakota Community: In Honor of Jace DeCory", Jonas Academic 110

Sept. 16th

• 1-4PM 2025 BHSU Accounting Fair, Jacket Legacy Room (Student Union)

Sept. 20th

• 9AM-1PM Northern Hills Marching Exhibition, Lyle Hare Stadium Field House

Sept. 23rd

• 5-6PM Nihongo Camp, Online/Virtual

Please join us Mondays at 4:00 p.m. in Jonas 110 for Geek Speak: a lecture series for the geek in all of us.  These lectures are free and open to all students, staff, faculty, and community members.

• Monday, Sept 15: Liz Fayer

The Special Meaning of Kinship: Grandmothers of the Lakota Community: In Honor of Jace DeCory
Historically, the Lakota concept of kinship has been misunderstood. For elders specifically, constraining their role as a grandparent within a Western framing diminishes the wealth of strengths and resources of intergenerational caring that occurs in Indigenous communities. The importance of this kinship concept will be explored along with the cross-cultural communication used to present this information and other cultural information about the Lakota People.  

• Monday, Sept 22: Antawn Knight:

The Power of Leadership with Antawn Knight
Have you ever wanted to be a leader that people follow because they genuinely want to, rather than having to follow? Join award-winning leadership instructor and best-selling author Antawn Knight for an engaging session designed to empower leaders at every stage.

You’ll discover:

• The L.E.A.D. Model: A field-tested leadership framework that delivers results, rooted in real-world military, business, and professional experience.
• The Power of Clarity: How clear communication fuels decisive leadership and inspires teams.
• Leaving a Leadership Legacy: Transform Your Impact into a Legacy That Outlives You at Work, School, and Beyond.

You will walk away with practical strategies and confidence to lead out loud in your daily life and future career.

• Monday, Sept 29: PrasanthiPallapu:

Languages of South India
India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Hundreds of languages and dialects are spoken throughout India. This presentation will explore the four Dravidian languages of South India. By the end of the talk, participants will be able to understand the differences/similarities in the script and sound. The presentation will also share different types of clothing and other cultural elements.

• Monday, October 6: Yukari Tadano

The Portrayal of War in Japanese Animation
We will explore how Japanese animation portrays war, using several notable anime works as reference points. The Geek Speak will focus on the distinctive emphasis on personal loss, moral ambiguity, and the destruction of innocence, rather than solely on battlefield brutality.

• Monday, October 20: Dr. Andrey Reznikov:

English has been declared the official language of the United States. What does this mean?
The vast majority of countries in the world have an official language (or languages). Up until recently (March 1, 2025) United States was one of the few countries that did not have an official language. This presentation will analyze the concept of official language and arguments both for and against it.

• Monday, October 27: Dr. Kyle Kopplin:

Who Benefits and Who Loses from Property Tax Changes?
Property taxes have been in the news a lot for South Dakota residents lately. There have been several attempts to limit, reduce, or eliminate property taxes as a funding source for South Dakota’s local fiscal districts, and there are more of these discussions on the horizon. But how much do we know about property taxes in South Dakota? How do they work, what do they do, and where does the money go? Who benefits and who loses from property tax changes? In this talk, we’ll try to consider all points of view on hypothetical restrictions of property taxes, both in the short and long term, for some recent and potential legislative bills. 

• Monday, November 3: Jason McConnell:
  Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech
  How do we strike a balance between encouraging student expression of their own ideas and providing a safe and orderly learning environment? While students do have rights to free expression under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, schools also have legal obligations that may lead them to curtail student expression. This presentation explores the history and future of the delicate balance between student speech and school policy.
  
  
• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains
  This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story
Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design at BHSU, will share her experience as a visiting professor and the first artist-in-residence at the University of Zürich Physics Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Collegium Helveticum, Swiss Institute for Advanced Study.

Spearfish will host the South Dakota Fesitval of Books on September 26th and 27th. Sessions wll be held at BHSU. Attendance is free for campus events. Faculty, staff, and students are welcome to attend.  https://sdhumanities.org/festival-of-books/

The Send-a-Thanks platform was developed for employees to be able to send a special thank you, or kudos, to one of their colleagues across campus.  Employees who receive a send-a-thanks are entered in to a monthly drawing for either a Bookstore gift card or a mug and gift card courtesy of Einstein's. We would like to give a shout out to the recipients who have received a kudos!  Recent recipients were:

If you would like to send a special recognition to someone please click the quick link on the main e-Update email.

Thank you all for everything you do!

With the fall semester in full swing, don't forget to check out the new Student Employment Guidelines in the Human Resources Knowledge Base!  These new BOR guidelines provide clarity and consistency in student worker positions.  Check out the link here:  https://support.bhsu.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=709.

Hello, faculty!

This is a friendly reminder that our first Faculty Senate meeting is this week.  All faculty are welcome to attend. Please find the tentative agenda below.

September 3, 2025: Faculty Senate Agenda
3:15 p.m. in Swarts Room

1. Provost update on BOR initiatives (Dr. Pam Carriveau)
2. Introduction to Student Senate Representatives
3. Faculty Senate role in policy process
4. March 16 Senate meeting conflict
5. October BOR meeting preparation
   1. Questions/updates needed
   2. Bragging points
   3. Potential issues/problems to discuss
6. Executive Session

If you have questions, concerns, or ideas for Faculty Senate or its initiatives, please do not hesitate to reach out via email: FacultySenate@BHSU.edu or to your/a representative:

Courtney Huse-Wika: President                                           
Abigail Domagall: Vice President                                         
Ryan Amys: Secretary                                        

College of Natural & Behavioral Sciences

Katrina Jensen: Natural Sciences                               
Alyssa Call: Behavioral Sciences                                 
Abigail Domagall: College at Large                             

Combined Colleges of Education & Business

MaryAnn Fleury: Colleges at Large                             
Ryan Amys: Education                                     
Kyle Kopplin: Business                                     

College of Liberal Arts

Parthasarathi Nag: Math & Social Sciences                           
Courtney Huse-Wika: Humanities                                       
Nancy Roberts: College at Large                                 
Justin Bergh: Art                                               

Please join us on Mondays in Jonas Academic 110 for the University Honors Program's Geek Speak! (Please note the break in late November.)  These lectures are free and open to all faculty, staff, and the public.

• Monday, Sept 15: Liz Fayer

The Special Meaning of Kinship: Grandmothers of the Lakota Community: In Honor of Jace DeCory

Historically, the Lakota concept of kinship has been misunderstood. For elders specifically, constraining their role as a grandparent within a Western framing diminishes the wealth of strengths and resources of intergenerational caring that occurs in Indigenous communities. The importance of this kinship concept will be explored along with the cross-cultural communication used to present this information and other cultural information about the Lakota People.  

• Monday, Sept 22: Antawn Knight:

The Power of Leadership with Antawn Knight

Have you ever wanted to be a leader that people follow because they genuinely want to, rather than having to follow? Join award-winning leadership instructor and best-selling author Antawn Knight for an engaging session designed to empower leaders at every stage.

You’ll discover:

• The L.E.A.D. Model: A field-tested leadership framework that delivers results, rooted in real-world military, business, and professional experience.
• The Power of Clarity: How clear communication fuels decisive leadership and inspires teams.
• Leaving a Leadership Legacy: Transform Your Impact into a Legacy That Outlives You at Work, School, and Beyond.

You will walk away with practical strategies and confidence to lead out loud in your daily life and future career.

• Monday, Sept 29: PrasanthiPallapu:

Languages of South India

India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Hundreds of languages and dialects are spoken throughout India. This presentation will explore the four Dravidian languages of South India. By the end of the talk, participants will be able to understand the differences/similarities in the script and sound. The presentation will also share different types of clothing and other cultural elements.

• Monday, October 6: Yukari Tadano

The Portrayal of War in Japanese Animation

We will explore how Japanese animation portrays war, using several notable anime works as reference points. The Geek Speak will focus on the distinctive emphasis on personal loss, moral ambiguity, and the destruction of innocence, rather than solely on battlefield brutality.

• Monday, October 20: Dr. Andrey Reznikov:

English has been declared the official language of the United States. What does this mean?

The vast majority of countries in the world have an official language (or languages). Up until recently (March 1, 2025) United States was one of the few countries that did not have an official language. This presentation will analyze the concept of official language and arguments both for and against it.

• Monday, October 27: Dr. Kyle Kopplin:

Who Benefits and Who Loses from Property Tax Changes?

Property taxes have been in the news a lot for South Dakota residents lately. There have been several attempts to limit, reduce, or eliminate property taxes as a funding source for South Dakota’s local fiscal districts, and there are more of these discussions on the horizon. But how much do we know about property taxes in South Dakota? How do they work, what do they do, and where does the money go? Who benefits and who loses from property tax changes? In this talk, we’ll try to consider all points of view on hypothetical restrictions of property taxes, both in the short and long term, for some recent and potential legislative bills. 

• Monday, November 3: Jason McConnell:
  Can or Should? School Responses to Unsavory Student Speech

How do we strike a balance between encouraging student expression of their own ideas and providing a safe and orderly learning environment? While students do have rights to free expression under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, schools also have legal obligations that may lead them to curtail student expression. This presentation explores the history and future of the delicate balance between student speech and school policy.
 

• Monday, November 17: Dr. Symeon Waseen:
  Generating Music with Markov Chains

This talk will explore stochastic music composition using “Markov Chains”, a method which uses pre-existing content to create new content with similar qualities.  Examples will include text generation, a “new” cello piece in the style of Bach, and ideas for further application.

• Monday, December 1: Professor Gina Gibson

Gravitational Waves, Particle Colliders, Dark Matter and More: A Sabbatical Story