April 10, 2024

KENNETH REBELLO News Editor

South Dakota State University’s Students’ Association observed the swearing-in of Trinity Peterson and Hayden Bentz as president and vice president of SA, alongside new senators and executive team Monday during its weekly Monday meeting.

Open Forum

SA awarded faculty members for their dedicated service to the campus community.

Peterson awarded Captain Brandon Reese, assistant professor for Aerospace Studies (Air Force ROTC), as ‘2024 Faculty Adviser of the Year.’ Reese’s nominators said that he ensures the well-being of his students, both physically and mentally.

Steph Bebensee, professional academic adviser for College of Nursing received the ‘2024 Professional Adviser of the Year’ award. Peterson spoke about Bebensee’s outstanding support for her students.

The ‘2024 Student Organization Adviser of the Year’ award was handed out to Brittney Meyer. Meyer serves as the adviser for Student Collaboration for the Advancement and Promotion of Pharmacy (SCAPP). Meyer’s nominators state that her kindness and commitment for student growth shows no bounds.

Peterson announced the ‘Campus Partner of the Year’ award to Kimberly Grieve, temporary interim associate vice president for Student Affairs.

“She stepped into her role as interim vice president for Student Affairs just at the beginning of this year and even at her short time at SDSU, she has left her mark on supporting student initiatives and carrying a smile with her wherever she goes,” Peterson said.

Government Affairs Chair Michael Garofalo received the ‘Senator of the Year’ award while B Wilson, Ex-Officio for Gender and Sexualities Alliance (GSA), received the award for ‘Ex-Officio of the

STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION BRIEF

Peterson, Bentz, new senators and executive team take the oath

Year.’ Both the nominees were voted by the Senate body.

Committee and Staff Reports

Peterson provided insights on her favorite results that have been achieved this year. First, successfully lobbying the legislature to receive a tuition freeze for the 2024-2025 school year.

Secondly, expanding food service hours for students and adding 16 new student organizations to the campus community which included spending all $50,000 from the Student Promotion Fund. Lastly, allocating almost $80 million through the General Activity Fee (GAF) strategic planning process and support student organizations in other services.

“A year ago, I sat around this table as CAFES senator and vice-president elect without a clue, I realized I was getting myself into,” Peterson said. “I can confidently say that this year was what I had pictured, and I am very proud of what we have achieved as a Senate.”

Both Peterson and Chief of Staff Benjamin Connor thanked the executive team and senators for their hours dedicated towards making SDSU a better place.

Vice President Bentz informed the Senate about meeting the Mayor of Brookings, Opeke ‘Ope’ Niemeyer along with Peterson and discussed transportation issues and possible solutions.

Finance Chair Katie Neuhas informed the Senate about the approval of the ‘FY 2025 General Budget’ through the University Activity Fee and Budgeting Committee.

Garofalo shared the significance of the Student Promotion Fund allocated for student organizations. Each year, $50,000 is allocated for these funds. However, Garofalo was pleased to inform the Senate about exceeding the limit of funds to around $68,000 to help support student

organizations.

Grieve provided the Senate with an update on the Telehealth program. The program will feature its pilot beginning Monday, April 15.

Senator At-Large Grace Barnett informed the Senate on the Food Safety Audit and General Safety Audit conducted by SODEXO to ensure functioning of equipment and safety of staff respectively.

Unfinished Business

Senators discussed Amendment 23-15A to introduce a new campaign finance standard to limit spending for campaign expenditures and create fundamentally equal circumstances for candidates running in SA elections. The amendment is motioned to lay on the table.

Resolution 23-11-R was also discussed to show SA’s potential support of the Title IX office moving from Morrill Hall to the Miller Wellness Center to increase awareness, comfortability and accessibility of reporting resources. The resolution is tabled.

Senators voted on Resolution 23-12-R to affirm the right of free speech and free expression for student organizations and to ask the South Dakota Legislature to affirm rights of free speech and free expression for student organizations as well. The resolution was taken to a roll call and approved.

The Senate voted on Commemoration 23-10-C to commemorate the 2023-2024 Student Promotion Fund Committee.

Commemoration 23-11-C was also voted as SA commemorated 2024 senior members for their work and dedication to the students of SDSU.

Commemoration 23-12-C, 23-13-C and 23-14-C were voted on as SA commemorated and thanked Dr. Kimberly Grieve, interim associate vice president for Student Services and Enrollment Management for her service to students of SDSU, and Charlene Wolf-Hall, Dean for College of Natural Sciences, and Lynn Sargeant, Dean of Arts, Humanities and

Social Sciences (AHSS).

Senators voted on the last Commemoration for the meeting. Commemoration 23-15-C was aimed to commemorate March 2024 as Women’s History Month and encourage students to participate and engage with events related to the same.

Commemorations 23-10-C through 23-15-C were taken to a voice vote and approved.

New Business

Garofalo conducted the swearing-in ceremony with the presence of Senators and executive team for both Peterson and Bentz as president and vice president of the SA.

Bentz proceeded to inform the Senate of the selection process for new Senators At-Large. Out of the five candidates, four of them were selected to serve the SA committee. A motion was taken to approve the new Senators At-Large.

Peterson also conducted the swearing-in ceremony of all senators, inclusive of both new and returning senators.

Peterson and Bentz further informed the Senate of conducting interviews for the new executive team. Peterson introduced Rylee Sabo as Chief of Staff, Grace Peterson as Finance Chair, Claire Koenecke as Government Affairs Chair, Gabby Fink as Communications Chair and Hannah Dayaget as Diversity Chair.

The approval of new appointees was taken to a roll call and voted upon by the new committee.

The new SA committee members will kick-off their first general meeting session Monday, April 15.

Trinity Peterson

Michael Garofalo

SDSU announces new public service program

School of American and Global Studies launches new program that helps students develop leadership skills

GRETA GOEDE Editor-In-Chief

The School of American and Global Studies announced a new program yesterday that aims to develop leaders and professionals that will improve the lives of individuals, communities and societies.

The Mike Heuther Public Service Academy program offers four foundational courses in government, public administration, ethics and intercultural competence.

The program was created by previous Mayor of Sioux Falls, Mike Huether. The vision for this program started back in 2018 but really started to become a focus in the fall of 2021.

“Today marks the culmination of a shared vision between SDSU the School of American and Global Studies and alumnus and former Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Heuther, to establish a premier undergraduate program dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders committed to public service,” Christine Garst -Santos, director of the School of American and Global Studies said.

The program selects up to 50 scholars annually. Over two years students will undergo leadership development, earn a certificate in public service, engage in public service internships, and participate in the annual Mike Huether PSA Conference, according to a handout from the press conference. Every student in the program also completes an internship and the program supports them with a $2,000 scholarship during the semester.

“This academy… is going to prepare students to become leaders… at every level, locally, nationally, and globally, this academy and these graduates will emerge with the skills and abilities to engage and lead within their communities,” Dennis Hedge, provost and vice president for academic affairs said.

Although the program is housed through the School of American and Global Studies, the program is available to any major on campus.

“Any students… fellow jackrabbits, regardless of your background, regardless of your major, regardless of the profession you’re working towards more,” Huether said. “If you want to be a stronger leader, a more caring student, or steward, and you want to be a more determined teammate and if you want to become inspired so that you can capture your dreams, no matter

what obstacles come your way. And guess what obstacles are coming your way. This PSA is for you.”

Collegian photo by GRETA GOEDE

Former Mayor of Sioux Falls Mike Huether gives a speech at press conference annoucing his new program with SDSU that helps students develop public service skills.

Collegian photo by GRETA GOEDE Director of the School of American and Global Studies Christine Garst-Santos announces the new Mike Huether Public Service Academy program coming to SDSU at a press conference Tuesday, April 9.

The 101st Little International Thousands come to Brookings for the annual event

Story by BRIELLE RUEN | Reporter

The 101st version of South Dakota State’s Little International went off this past weekend to rave reviews from student leaders who organized the livestock show.

More than 2,000 high school students arrived on campus to watch shows and participate in Career Development Events (CDEs), said Isaac Berg, the 101st Little I manager. Meanwhile, 150 undergraduate college students showed animals in the events.

“This year was a huge success,” Berg said. “They (students) worked tirelessly for over three weeks to get their animals in peak form.”

Little International, or Little “I” as it is known, is the

largest two-day student-run livestock exhibition in the nation. A student staff of 150 helped create the event that drew thousands of students, alumni and other people to Brookings to compete and watch.

A variety of awards were given to students and participants at Little “I.”

This year’s round robin winner was Bradyn Lachenmeier. The transfer student had his first experience with Little International last year as a junior showing a goat. This year, he showed a dairy heifer. He reflected on what this year’s award means to him.

“I’ve always prided myself on showmanship,”

Lachenmeier said. “Being able to win SDSU’s Little International round robin had always been a goal of mine. It meant all the work of showing sheep, goats, and cattle in the past was worth it. It was the result of many hours and eff ort of many, many prayers that without God, nothing is possible.”

A new red barn – the iconic symbol of Little International – was built by members of the Equipment Executive Committee led by Kaleb Koerselman and Ethan Wright. Koerselman’s and Wright’s duties consisted of setting up the new barn, maintaining the show ring by laying wood chips, and all the other behind-the-

Courtesy Little “I” Photography Committee

Students pose in front of the new red barn - the iconic symbol of Little International - during the event.

scenes work.

“None of this work would have been accomplished without all the other students on equipment,” Koerselman said.

Koerselman and Wright also received this year’s Pete Pritchett Memorial Award. The award recognizes outstanding individuals who are nominated by other staff members based on how much hard work they put into Little “I.”

Pritchett was a livestock coordinator for Little “I” and died the summer before his senior year. The award was created in honor of his participation in SDSU campus activities, particularly with Little “I.” This is the first year there have been two recipients for the award.

“Ethan and I are both at a loss of words after receiving it,” Koerselman said. “We both worked very hard and it was a huge honor for both of us to receive the award this year.”

Little International began on campus in 1921 and has since flourished as a rich tradition of legacy and learning. That makes Little “I” one of the longest traditions at the university and provides not only FFA and 4-H high school students opportunities to compete in contests, but also offers undergraduate students the opportunity to participate.

Collegian photos by EAN WETZEL

New taco place comes to Brookings

TATE PETERSON Reporter

A new Mexican restaurant, Taqueria El Jarocho, opened its doors in February, offering a new Mexican culinary experience in Brookings.

The restaurant is located at 605 Main Ave., and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 p.m. to 9 p.m., except for Friday and Saturday which they close at 10 p.m.

Mary Mochado and her fiancé Daniel Andrade co-opened the restaurant Feb. 23 and have already seen support from the community.

“That first day we opened we didn’t expect that many people to come in, but a lot of people came… we’ve been surprised about how good it’s been going,” Mochado said.

Opening a restaurant was a longtime dream for Andrade and his love for Mexican cuisine and culture.

“Daniel’s always been passionate about his food and culture, he loves to make spicy salsas and the best pairing for them is with tacos,” Mochado said. “Whenever we talked about opening a restaurant, his face would light up because it was an opportunity for him to showcase his salsas and bring some of that flavor to Brookings.”

Taqueria El Jarocho features a variety of menu items from tacos, burritos, and tortas (Mexican sandwiches), to their most popular dish, quesabirria.

“The quesabirria has been super popular, a lot of people are really enjoying it,” Mochado said. “We have burritos and tacos, but you can get those at a lot of

garnered a large student exposure to the restaurant.

“Pub Crawl opened the student population to us; everyone would walk over to the restaurant and people would follow… it was very busy,” Mochado said. “I know a couple of professors have come in and told their students about us in their classes.”

The restaurant is currently on DoorDash and is awaiting its alcohol license to offer a variety of drinks.

places in town. Quesabirria is something new and is something a lot of people haven’t tried.”

Brynn Olverson, an SDSU senior majoring in communication studies from Madison, said she hopes to eventually check out the restaurant and was interested in their birria tacos.

“It looks like a welcoming environment… I like that it’s in a different location than some other restaurants here in town,” Olverson said. “I’ve always seen birria on social media and wanted to try it, but I’ve never seen a place in town that offers it.”

Some other unique menu items are their “specialty meats” which include, lengua (beef tongue), buche (stomach), and tripas (intestines).

“A lot of people are jumping to try new stuff and push their boundaries… and people are really liking it,” Mochado said. “One weekend we had head tacos, the head of a cow, and we sold out of it that weekend, everyone loved it.”

Mochado believes the tortas on their menu have been an underrated item and more people should try them.

“I think the tortas are being a little underrated, it’s a sandwich but it's big,” Mochado said. “It’s a baguette bread used specifically for tortas, you can have breaded chicken or steak and I think they are really really good.”

Dylan DeBoer, a customer in the restaurant, ordered a burrito and thought the food was great.

“It’s definitely the best Mexican food I’ve had in town, the salsas were great too,” DeBoer said.

El Jarocho opened just in time for Pub Crawl which

“We’re happy to be here in Brookings… I feel like people aren’t scared to try new things or go to new places and that’s the best part of opening a restaurant here, you know the community is going to support you,” Mochado said. “I love Brookings. I've lived here for 10 years and graduated from SDSU. My family likes to say it’s the happiest place on earth.”

Collegian photo by TATE PETERSON Taqueria El Jarocho’s co-owners, Mary Mochado and Daniel Andrade, and family.

Collegian photos by TATE PETERSON Above is the tacos paired with Andrade’s spicy salsa. Below is tortas or Mexican sandwiches.

Collegian photo by TATE PETERSON Taqueria El Jaracho’s store front located near downtown Brookings.

South Dakota State’s 14th annual Ag Week kicks off April

15

PREXY Council will host its annual Ag Week to celebrate those in the Agriculture industry

EMMA HEIDEN Reporter

All students at SDSU will be able to attend and participate in Ag Week which is being held across campus April 15 through the 18.

There are many different competitions and events taking place during Ag Week that anyone is welcome to sign up for, watch, or cheer on friends. If you head over to Instagram at sdstate_prexycouncil or Facebook at SDState- College of Ag, Food, and Environmental Sciences PREXY Council, you would find links to sign up.

This year will be the 14th annual Ag Day. In recent years, it has been transitioned into Ag Week by the PREXY Council. Ag Week was inspired by the National Ag Day, on March 19, 2024.

Mary Christensen advises the CAFES Prexy Council, a student-led governing body of nearly 30 clubs.

Stiefvater said.

Since freshman year, Tessa Erdmann has been taking part in Ag Week. This year, she is serving as CAFES Advocate for the PREXY Council.

“The prexy council’s goal is to use the entire week to share the positive story of agriculture and the hardworking men and women who produce the world’s food,” Christensen said.

Lots of hard work was put in by the PREXY Council, especially this year, as you are able to see all the events, many of them are brand new. Ella Stiefvater is this year’s PREXY Council Treasurer and brings in sponsorship for Ag Week.

“I encourage everyone to participate even if you don’t necessarily think of it, just go out and try something new,”

“Ag Week isn’t just for the CAFES clubs, it’s truly an event for everyone on campus to celebrate our incredible industry,” Erdmann said.

EVENT SCHEDULE

• Monday, April 15Sandwich Competition in Animal Science Meat Lab prep and cooking at 4 p.m., judging at 5:30 p.m., Ag Trivia Night with President Dunn in Animal Science 126 at 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, April 16 - Roping Contest in Raven High Bay at 5:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, April 17Milk Run 3k or 5k at 6:30 a.m. breakfast to follow, Ag Day Free Meal in Club 71 at 5 p.m., Ag Week Banquet in Club 71 at 5:30 p.m. with keynote speaker John Stiegelmeier.

• Thursday, April 18Dodgeball Tournament in Animal Science Arena at 6 p.m., Swing Dance in The Barn at 8 p.m.

FREE T-SHIRT PICKUP

• Sun 4/14, 5-8 PM in Pierson Hall for students living in Pierson Hall.

• Mon 4/15, 10 AM-2 PM in Raven Precision Ag Center, Corn Gallery

• Tues 4/16, 10 AM-2 PM in the Animal Science lobby

• Wed 4/17, 10 AM- 2 PM, Main Street Student Union

MARY CHRISTENSEN

ELLA STIEFVATER

Spring Break in Dublin

KATRINA BUNTJER Reporter

The SDSU Forensics team headed abroad over spring break to follow their team motto and speak their passion, all while competing with other students from around the world.

Fourteen student team members and both coaches went on a five-day trip to Dublin, Ireland, where they competed in events ranging from impromptu speaking to after-dinner speaking. Many competitors have been working on their speeches since last August because they have been competing all year.

The team competed at a hotel in Dublin for two days along with 40 other university teams from different countries. The awards were then held at Trinity College, where multiple team members placed within the top 10.

Kara Vetch, a senior majoring in data science, placed seventh overall in the impromptu speaking category and was a semifinalist in after-dinner speaking. Hannah Dayaget, a sophomore majoring in political science and global studies, placed fourth overall in prose interpretation and was a semifinalist in informative speaking. They also were semifinalists in five other events.

Andrea Carlile, the director of Forensics at SDSU and an assistant professor of communication, helped prepare the students for the 11 different categories of competition in each tournament.

The university Forensics team went to lush country side of Dublin, Ireland to compete in a variety of international speech competitions. Multiple SDSU students were able to make the top 10 in their respective catagories

They used this tournament to gain more experience and get feedback from judges they normally wouldn’t get since it was an international competition.

“I get to work with amazing students who are willing to learn and grow, and (I) get to watch them find the courage to say their thoughts and know they matter,” Carlile said.

For Vetch, the Forensics team has opened opportunities for her throughout the three years she has been competing. From attending the oldest tournament in the nation, to having her speeches published, Vetch said she has found a second family and she takes away growth, knowledge and memories through her relationships and experiences with this team.

“The trip to Ireland was a place for me to get my events out there at an international level and achieve a new aspect of advocacy for my events,” Vetch said. “It was really nice to be able to compete but also to just relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience, both within and outside of the competition.”

Dayaget used the trip to gain feedback because it was an ideal competition to prepare for nationals. Since 40 teams were competing, it was bigger than their normal competitions but smaller than nationals, which typically has 65 to 70 teams. This allowed her to gain new feedback.

“Speech and debate is a lot broader than we can even imagine, and this competition showed me that there are so many other schools and judges that we would normally not encounter in our season,” Dayaget said.

The team experienced many highlights outside of the competition as well. They enjoyed team dinners, which was a nice bonding experience for all of them. They toured museums, such as The Irish Emigration Museum. They also toured the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College.

Carlile said she is proud of how her students handled themselves on the trip and feels honored and privileged to do what she does.

“This trip will leave an imprint on their lives that they will carry with them wherever they go,” Carlile said. “Because you never know the impact, not only this trip but every experience in general, will have on them that expands past the competitions.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The university Forensics team waiting to board their flight. The team would compete for two days in a hotel in Dublin, and then head over to Trinity College for the final awards ceremony.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

South Dakota Art Museum hosts successful yoga class

AVERI JOHANNSEN Reporter

The South Dakota Art Museum hosted an evening yoga event late last month, and it turned out a success.

The class sold out three weeks before the day of the event. A total of 22 participants were at this event with a mix of students, staff, faculty and Brookings community members.

The idea of having a yoga class in the museum came about in 2022 when Abigail Ramsbottom, coordinator and curator of education at the museum, interviewed for her current position.

Ramsbottom suggested the idea because she does yoga daily to help balance and ground her, which she believes correlates with the museum’s principles.

“At the South Dakota Art Museum, we aim to inspire creativity, connect people and enrich lives through art,” Ramsbottom said. “We hope to encourage folks to look at and enjoy art in a new way.”

A highlight of this event was the exhibitwhere the yoga was at, The Signe Stuart’s Events in Time & Space. Stuart is an artist who captures the passage of time

through patience and process, repetition and color, to present pleasing and harmonious events for viewers to experience. Stuart was a professor of visual arts at South Dakota State University from 1972 to 1994, according to her website.

The Events in Time & Space exhibit gathers artworks from Stuart’s last 60 years of professional work. Her pieces rely on experimentation of painting materials and forms, often breaking from the standard rectangle and concepts of framing. Stuart’s website says that she used different materials to create pieces; such as a canvas, scroll, paper, Tyvek or Vacuform panels.

While selecting this space, the museum directors carefully considered how much floor space was needed to accommodate the yoga program. Ramsbottom said that a key factor is within the viewing experience when selecting what artists and pieces are being displayed.

Another factor being Mandy Lyons, an instructor at Prairie Soul. Lyons was selected to lead this season’s event. She is a resident of Brookings and a third-generation Jackrabbit.

Lyons has taught yoga classes for eight

years at Brookings Prairie Soul Studio. Prairie Soul is located behind T.J. Maxx. The studio offers multiple class types and around two to four classes a day. Lyons teaches a variety of classes, but her favorite classes are vinyasa and yoga for strength.

Lyons said that when preparing for a class, she follows the same routine every time. She first starts by planning the sequencing or “flow” for the class. She then starts creating a music playlist that fits with the sequencing. Lyons would end her preparation by finding a Nidra script that will work well with the class style and the venue.

A Nidra script is a reading that helps calm the body and relax the mind. It is often used for a period of meditation during yoga.

The yoga class hosted March 19 was not the first for Lyons at the museum. This is her second time teaching here and she thinks that it is a beautiful space for yoga and meditation. She selected a gentle class with yoga Nidra (guided meditation) for this space. Lyons said this style of yoga is a favorite among yogis as it is thoughtful, intentional and slow.

Cuecas-Panza Ramsbottom does not regularly attend yoga classes, but he does practice at home. He also regularly attends the art museum and the events that are hosted.

“I enjoyed the poses and the general flow of the class,” said Cuecas-Panza Ramsbottom, attendee of the class. “I enjoyed winding down at the end of the class with some meditation and light stretches, and of course, it is an awesome opportunity to mix yoga with beautiful art.”

Hayden Barber, assistant professor of communication and an attendee, shared a similar experience.

“Mandy made everyone feel very comfortable and gave everyone the chance to explore what their bodies could do in a calming and creative environment,” Barber said. “The location of the art museum provided a calming yet inspiring location for reflection and peace.”

The collaboration of art and fitness isn’t one of a kind. The museum says that community and campus members can look forward to a free yoga class every season.

Finalists named for dean of College of Natural Sciences

The search committee for the dean position at South Dakota State University’s College of Natural Sciences has named three finalists, who will be on campus over the next two weeks.

Each candidate will spend one day interviewing and meeting with university leadership, deans, researchers, faculty, students and staff. There will be open forums for each candidate to engage with other key stakeholders, including community and university members.

Natalia A. Sidorovskaia, Ph.D.

Sidorovskaia is professor and chairperson for the Department of Physics at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She earned a doctorate in engineering and applied science and a master’s in applied physics from the University of

New Orleans and a master’s in radiophysics from Gorky State University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, with previous work experience in Louisiana, Miami and Russia.

She interviews Monday, April 8. This open forum will be held from 2:30 to 3:30p.m. in Avera Health and Science Center room 27. To participate in the open forum session via Zoom, visit Natalia Sidorovskaia Zoom.

Gregory S. Tschumper, Ph.D.

Tschumper is currently a professor and the chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Mississippi. His professional background includes work in theoretical chemistry, mathematics and chemistry. His interview is Friday, April 12. His open forum

will be held from 2:30 to 3:30p.m. in Avera Health and Science Center room 27. To participate in the open forum session via Zoom, visit Gregory Tschumper Zoom.

Jeremy S. Edwards, Ph.D.

Edwards is a distinguished professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at the University of New Mexico. Prior to his current position, he served as the director of UNM Center of Biomedical Engineering.

His leadership and administrative experience also includes other professor and director positions, as well as serving as vice president of DNA sequencing for a biotechnology company.

Edwards earned his doctorate and master’s in bioengineering at the University of California, completed post-

doctoral training in genetics/genomics at Harvard Medical School, and earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Texas.

Edwards has a strong background in teaching, research and professional service. He has over two decades of diverse academic experience spanning fields such as bioengineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry and molecular genetics.

He interviews Monday, April 15. His open forum will be held from 2:30 to 3:30p.m. in Avera Health and Science Centerroom 27. To participate in the open forum session via Zoom, visit Jeremy Edwards Zoom.

— Collegian Staff Reports

The College of Education and Human Sciences recruited Evan Ortlieb after a year in an interim period

CAMILLE BUUS Reporter

The College of Education and Human Sciences, which consists of two schools, the School of Education, Counseling and Human Sciences and the School of Health and Consumer Sciences, foresees significant changes coming after Evan Ortlieb was hired as dean, earlier this year.

After Dean Paul Barnes stepped down, the college was in an interim period where students and faculty were unsure of what was to come.

But Ortlieb has worked to instill trust and stability in the college in the three months since he has been here.

“We need to focus on the relationships that we forge with faculty, staff, and my fellow administrators, and that they are no diff erent because we are with them just as much as we are with our families,” Dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences, Evan Ortlieb said.

“Dr. Ortlieb came in and hit the ground running with a lot of initiatives,” said Patrick Hales, assistant director of K-12 teacher education, associate professor, School of Education, Counseling and Human Development. “Once he knows you he’s going to find you in a room or a crowd and talk about whatever you want to talk about. He will come up to you and ask questions to see how you are doing.”

One of Ortlieb’s short-term goals going forward is to continue investing in his faculty. This consists of three things; buying as many books as teachers are willing to read, sending faculty members to specific conferences to explore new learning opportunities and sending leadership members to do professional development over the summer.

“We’re going to be focusing on sending people to particular conferences that they haven’t been to yet; to explore what they might be able to learn from other people,” Ortlieb said.

Ortlieb’s second short-term goal is to continue to help rapidly growing programs through the expansion of resources.

EHS has three of the five largest programs which include exercise science, elementary education, and aviation which means hiring more faculty to even out the student-faculty ratio, so students have more one-on-one experience with teachers.

“He’s taken the initiative to start advocating for the expansion of resources that allow faculty within the program to maintain a high level of research excellence while also continuing to provide an excellent academic product for the students,” said Lee Weidauer, associate professor for the School of Health and Consumer Science.

“My long-term goal is feeding into programs that need a curricular refresh,” said Ortlieb.

Elementary education and special education were introduced in Fall 2023. Although these programs were set in motion before Ortlieb stepped into this position, he has been putting additional time and effort into expanding them.

In the academic school year 20232024, elementary education’s current enrollment is 96 students with 100 incoming applicants. Their goal for the 2024-2025 academic school year is 75 enrolled students.

The current enrollment for special education in the 2023-2024 academic school year is five students with an anticipated increase this spring 2024. Their goal for the 2024-2025 academic school year is 24 students according to a message from Ortlieb.

“First and foremost, Dr. Ortlieb has been very open to the conversation about how we add and update courses that are enticing to the students,” Hales said. “How can we add to the resources and spaces that we have that make them more valuable to students.”

Students and faculty members who know Ortlieb talk about his efforts to build relationships within the EHS community.

“He takes the time to connect with everyone within the program, always

has a smile on his face, and is genuinely interested in people and learning more about them,” said Margaret Schlipsiek, student office assistant.

Ortlieb actively listens to students and faculty in the EHS programs and asks questions on how he can improve his efforts to be a better leader.

Weidauer describes one exercise that was a substantial learning experience for Ortlieb during the spring semester kickoff. Each faculty member was given a series of pictures. The first set of pictures was given to the faculty members choosing one that represented them as leaders from the second series of pictures they chose from what they wanted in a leader. The exercise helped Ortlieb get to know his faculty and how the college could collaborate as a team.

Ortlieb puts importance on increasing student and faculty engagement. Whether that means setting up additional workshops for teachers, planning activities outside of the classroom, or helping to ensure students are getting active learning experiences, according to Weidauer.

One example was a professional development workshop that was introduced to SDSU by Lucas P. Wintrode Autism Support Services that focuses on informing teachers of autism on campus. Overall, Ortlieb feels that SDSU’s EHS program is a place for students to grow and feel supported.

“Ortlieb puts emphasis on engaging all students at all levels, where he talks about engaging students before they’re here, when they’re here, and after they’re here,” Weidauer said.

Ortlieb and the College of EHS provides stability such as helping students find internships which allows them to feel good about the investments they are making into their college education.

“I am a firm believer that if somebody is going to invest their hard-earned dollars into SDSU, particularly in these programs, how can we create that almost guaranteed job on the back end so that there are no more question marks around is this going to be a good return on investment,” Ortlieb said.

The EHS program has not seen big changes yet from Ortlieb stepping into this position he has made extensive efforts.

Ortlieb has met with as many stakeholders in the South Dakota region such as the Children of United Methodist Church, Brookings School District and Sioux Falls School District.

Ortlieb has taken the time to gather data to analyze what he needs to further improve within the EHS programs. He has continued to push for growth within programs and their infrastructure, such as their hopes for a new building for educational research and outreach, and programs related to autism.

“I think he has helped and will continue to help moving forward with getting more resources, getting the spaces we need to build classrooms, have well-instructed classes, and getting the resources we need to be innovative and do great research,” Hales said.

Submitted Photo

Photo of Dean Evan Ortlieb, from K-12 Teacher Education Facebook page.

Emergency savings can reduce financial stress

LORNA SABOE-WOUNDED HEAD Family Resource Management Field Specialist, SDSU Extension

You may feel that saving money is hard to do as a college student. Having savings, and money set aside for unplanned expenses can help to reduce financial stress. This type of stress can get in the way of focusing on your academics. With the right financial tools and strategies, you can learn ways to start saving today.

Savings are important so we have a way to pay for those unexpected expenses such as medical bills, car repairs, supplies needed for classes or to fi x a broken computer or cellphone. An emergency savings account is needed so you will not have to go into debt to pay for those unexpected expenses. A good rule of thumb is to have three months of living expenses in your emergency fund. This amount may be difficult for college students to calculate. So, try to have a balance of $300 -$400 in an emergency savings account.

Debt impacts our ability to save. Money left over after paying bills and for other necessary expenses should go toward debt payments. For many people, the reason they have debt is that they don’t have savings to pay for an

unexpected expense. It is important to work on saving as you work on reducing debt. It may take longer to pay off the debt, but you will most likely not take on more debt if you have savings.

Start a savings account by building up to a few hundred dollars and continually adding to it regularly. Some ways to find money to save are to reconsider costly habits, buy items on sale, put extra earnings or gifts of money in savings, and sign up for an automatic deposit. To learn more saving tips, go to https://extension.sdstate.edu/ america-saves-week. America Saves Week is an annual event designed to inform consumers about strategies to save and implement saving behaviors.

For more information about saving go to https:// extension.sdstate.edu/wellness/family-finances. If you would like to meet with a financial counselor to review your situation and develop strategies to manage your finances, contact Lorna Wounded Head, at lorna. woundedhead@sdstate.edu.

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS GAIN NATIONAL ACCLAIM

SDSU student tracks music industry news on U.S. Radio Updater

JAIDA DEVRIES

Reporter

Christian Larson, a South Dakota State University Student, and his business partner, Gideon Dean, from the State University of New York, have captured national attention with their website, the U.S. Radio Updater, that keeps people informed about music industry news.

Their platform has garnered acclaim, winning prestigious awards such as the 2023 New York State Broadcasters Association’s Excellence in Broadcasting Award for Outstanding Use of Digital Platforms and the 2023 International Student Broadcasting Championship’s Award for Best Social Media Execution. U.S. Radio Updater stands out as a trailblazing online trade publication, providing comprehensive coverage of

radio charts and trends across all formats. While traditional trade publications cater primarily to industry insiders, Larson and Dean’s mission with U.S. Radio Updater is to give the public access to radio data, empowering music consumers with valuable insights. The pair primarily focus on country music but are not limited to other genres of music.

Larson’s love for country music started at an early age. His upbringing helped form the deep-seated passion for country music and the radio industry.

“I grew up in Minnesota on country music, so there was always CMT on in the house. I also played piano [in the] first grade through sophomore year of high school, and then I was also in band in middle school through high school, so I was always playing something.”

Larson’s journey into tracking and reporting trends began in 2017, where he balanced his school work with his passion for the music industry.

“I wake up at 6 a.m. to look over the latest billboards and track movements,” Larson shares, reflecting on his tireless dedication.

Similarly driven by a love for music and radio, Dean’s aspirations trace back to his high school days, where he immersed himself in publications like Country Aircheck.

Larson’s collaboration with Dean in 2021 marked the creation of U.S. Radio Updater Twitter account, and in 2023 they launched the U.S. Radio Updater website, Instagram, and Newsletter. With the platform’s launch on Twitter in 2021, U.S. Radio Updater Twitter page now has over 30,000 followers, including notable figures like Jimmy Fallon.

“We’ve also had many notable artists that have reposted our information including Dua Lipa, Jelly Roll, Lainey

expecting,” Larson said.

AWARDS

2023 New York State Broadcasters Association’s: Excellence in Broadcasting Award for Outstanding Use of Digital Platforms

2023 International Student Broadcasting Championship’s: Award for Best Social Media Execution

Wilson, Kanye West and SZA.”

The pair did not expect the amount of traction their Twitter would receive, “Neither of us never intended it to ever get to this point or really ever take off. It was a slow start at first, which we were

U.S. Radio Updater has been used as a source of information by countless top music news stations such as All Country News, Country Politian, USA Today, Pop Sugar, and Outsider.

Larson plans on pursuing a career in the country music industry. Along with social media, he wants to promote singles and artists through radio coverage.

“I am optimistic about my personal journey, and I believe it could benefit both of us as we aspire to transition to the global stage and immerse ourselves into the country music industry.”

Together, Larson and Dean intend to make waves in the national music scene, fueled by their shared ambition to leave an indelible mark in the country music business.

Follow U.S. Radio Updater IG and Twitter @USRadioUpdater.

CHRISTIAN LARSON

Track and Field performs in Fargo, continues road trip this weekend

MARSHALL MINIHAN Sports Editor

Over the weekend, the South Dakota State track and field team competed in the NDSU Spring Classic at Fargo, North Dakota, hosted by the NDSU Bison.

Men’s

Up in Fargo, North Dakota, Jake Werner added his name to the South Dakota State record books as he clocked in at 10.27 seconds in the 100-meter, the second fastest time in Jackrabbit history.

“Jake has worked really hard,” head coach Rod DeHaven said. “He missed last spring due to some injuries and you know [it’s] pretty cool for him to get to that level. He’s become a very valuable part of the Jackrabbit track and field program.”

Teammates Drew Olson and Hudson Schroeder joined Werner on the record board less than a second later as Olson’s time of 10.41 (second in the race) put him in third all-time at SDSU and Schroeder’s 10.50 (fourth in the race) tied for seventh all-time.

Carter Johnson took silver in the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 14.69 seconds while four teammates followed right behind him. Gunner Gunderson (took bronze) clocked in at 14.81, Ryan Bensen (finished fourth) ran a 14.81, Ben Morningstar (earned fifth) finished with a time of 15.36 and Aiden Voss (rallied in sixth) crossed the plain at 15.55.

The Summit League indoor track and field triple jump champion Tristen Hanna jumped the distance of 46-04.00 which earned him third in the event.

Matt Katz and Ryan Karajanis went back-to-back in the pole vault as Katz took second place with a height of 15-03.00 and Karajanis cleared at 14-03.25 for third.

In the high jump, Connor Powers took second and cleared at 6-06.25 while Carson Kirwan took fourth after finishing with a 6-04.25 jump.

Hunter Wallster finished in second place with a throw of 183-09.00 in the hammer throw while Ethan Fischer earned his PR in the discus with a throw of 180-4.00, the second-best throw in Jackrabbit history.

Olson, Werner, Henderson and Carter Toews won the 4x100 relay and scored the eighth-fastest time in SDSU history.

Women’s

Maggie Madsen and Rich-Ann Archer went back

to-back in the 100-meter dash. Madsen took first with a time of 11.85, fifth best in school history while Archer took silver at 11.99.

Archer took second again, this time in the 200-meter dash with a time of 24.65, Madsen took third at 24.77, Emily Rystrom finished fourth at 25.33 and Erika Kuntz sealed fifth place at 25.62.

A PR of 12-01.50 in the pole vault gave Laci Leverty the gold and the sixth-best mark in SDSU history.

In the high jump, Madison Kizer finished second with a jump of 5-05.25 while teammate Layne Kirkendoll took third at 5-03.25. The Jackrabbits also took fifth (Taylor Jochum, 4-11.50) and sixth (Hadley Carlson, 4-11.50)

respectively.

Nora Peterson won the javelin throw at 144-04.00, a PR for the junior and has the fourth-best throw in school history.

Similar to the men’s relay team, the women’s team won the 4x100 with a time of 3:47.00.

Up Next:

The Jackrabbits will send some runners west to Azusa and Long Beach, California as well as to Vermillion, South Dakota for three meets of the weekend.

Photo courtesy of Dave Eggen/Intertia Jackrabbit thrower Ethan Fischer goes through his motions during the discus event. Fischer threw for a personal record at the NDSU Spring Classic in Fargo, N.D. Friday, April 5, 2024.

JON AKRE Sports Reporter

Jacks baseball go 2-1 in Fargo, set to face Mavericks of Omaha

South Dakota State head coach Rob Bishop reached career coaching milestones this past weekend as South Dakota State took a 2-1 series victory over rival North Dakota State.

Bishop earned his 150th win as head coach of the Jackrabbits in the Friday night victory over the Bison and followed that with career coaching victory No. 700 in the second half of the Saturday double header.

“You know, we had a rough weekend the weekend before and what you want is your team to respond,” coach Bishop said. “And those guys did. We had a really good mindset.”

Overall, it was a crucial weekend for the Jackrabbits who went into the series riding a four-game losing streak, but now find themselves in the middle of a stalemated Summit League standings.

“I literally think all six teams can win the league,” coach Bishop said. “We haven’t seen that kind of parity in our league, and obviously I know who I’m pulling for, and we are capable, but every other team has shown flashes of what they’re really good at.”

Game 1 (Friday)

With the help of six shutout innings thrown by pitcher Nic McCay, the Jacks were able to take game one of the three game series Friday night.

McCay, who struck out 10 batters while giving up just two hits and three walks, earned his third Summit League Player of the Week award this season.

Dawson Parry would get the scoring going in the third inning, hitting a twoRBI double into right-center field.

After a stagnant 2-0 ballgame through six innings of play, Parry would drive in his third RBI of the game on a sacrifice fly, followed by a two-out double by Adam Benes would double the lead to four.

Heading into the final frame, Parry would add one more insurance run with yet another double that would bring home junior infielder Jordan Sagedahl. Parry and Sagedahl combined for four of the eight hits for the Jacks in the ball game, with plating four runs on just three at-bats.

Heading into the bottom of the ninth, the Bison would score one run, but closer Alex Clemons would record two strikeouts in the final inning to seal the 5-1 victory.

The Bison were limited to just three hits in the game, but the four pitchers that made an appearance for the Jacks struggled to find the zone, combining for six walks and hitting another six batters.

Game 2 (Saturday, Game 1 of DH)

Back-to-back three-run innings by the Bison helped North Dakota State takedown the Jacks in a one run contest Saturday afternoon.

Like Friday night’s contest, the Jacks

jumped out to an early lead with the help of a solo homerun from Cael Frost in the top half of the first inning.

But NDSU’s James Dunlap would respond with three RBIs across the next two innings to take a 3-1 lead.

SDSU would respond in the top of the third with a 2-RBI single by Parry, followed by an RBI from Cade Stuff that saw the Jacks reclaim a one-run lead once again.

But like the Jacks, the Bison would respond with six runs of their own in the fourth and fifth innings and never gave the lead back, holding off a late rally to knock off the Jacks 9-8.

Even while outhitting the Bison 14-8, SDSU recorded five errors in the loss.

Game 3 (Saturday, Game 2 of DH)

In the grudge match, South Dakota State was able to win the back-and-forth contest and take the series victory 11-7 Saturday evening in Fargo.

The Jacks once again got out to an

early lead, this time utilizing a three-run first inning.

Parry got the scoring going with a sacrifice fly scoring a run, followed by an RBI triple by Stuff who would score shortly after on a base hit from Jess Bellows.

Parry went 2-for-4 with four RBIs in game three, batted an even .500 in the series and drove in 10 runs throughout.

NDSU responded with three runs of their own, but SDSU’s Frost hit a thunderous two-run homerun to make it 5-3 heading into the bottom of the fifth inning.

But the Jacks’ momentum quickly faded once again as the Bison rallied to put up three more runs in the bottom of the fifth to take a 6-5 lead.

Down by one heading into the sixth inning, the Jacks found a way to take the lead and, in the end, put the series away.

A sixth inning that started with Bellows reaching on an error, followed by Bryce Ronken knocking a base hit into center field. A sacrifice bunt allowed pinch hitter Luke Luskey to tie the game on a base hit.

Reece Anderson and Sagedahl would both reach base safely on consecutive singles, while Ronken scored on the latter play. An RBI groundout from Frost plated another run, and Parry would come up and score the fourth and fifth runs of the inning on a two-out single to give SDSU a 10-6 lead.

Both teams would score one more run each, but the Bison would never get closer than a four-run deficit.

South Dakota State pushes their conference record to 6-5 and 13-16 overall heading into next week.

Up Next

The Jacks will head South this weekend to take on the Omaha Mavericks in a three-game series starting Friday at 6 p.m., followed by a 2 p.m. Saturday first pitch and a 1 p.m. start Sunday.

Photo courtesy of SDSU Athletics

Cael Frost watches the ball fly after swinging during his at bat in the Jackrabbits game against NDSU in Fargo, N.D. Friday, April 5,2024. Frost started the scoring with a home run in the top of the first.

SPECIAL DELIVERY

SDSU pitcher runs through Summit League by way of strikeout

MARSHALL MINIHAN Sports Editor

Every time Tori Kniesche steps onto a softball field this season, she is adding to an already impressive legacy.

Kniesche, the star pitcher on the Jackrabbit softball team is the record holder for wins, strikeouts and shutouts at South Dakota State, records she took control of last season.

This year, her dominant performances from the mound has propelled the Jackrabbits to a 24-18 record and undefeated in conference play.

“Tori is an anomaly,” said SDSU softball coach Kristina McSweeney. “You get a kid like her and she’s just incredible every single day. It forces you to be the best version of yourself. She brings to the table this championship mindset that you don’t see very often.”

For the senior from Wayne, Nebraska, breaking records is just a part of the game.

“I think breaking records comes along with success,” Kniesche said. “It’s super important to me and my teammates to take one game at a time and whatever the outcome is, we are always trying to win the game that we are playing and not look forward or not look at any stats or records.”

Now 20 years removed from high school, Hill’s name sits in 11 different spots on the record board to this day.

This season, the South Dakota State softball team has played six different nationally ranked teams. Kniesche led the Jacks to a victory on March 2 against No. 15 Arkansas, where she recorded nine strikeouts in seven innings.

The victory over Arkansas was the highest-ranked team that South Dakota State softball has ever beaten.

But it wasn’t their first-ranked victory.

In the 2023 season, Kniesche and her teammates beat No. 20 ranked Baylor 5-2

KNIESCHE BIO

Name: Tori Kniesche

Sport: SDSU Softball

Height: 5’10”

From: Wayne, Nebraska

Notable Awards:

Three-Time All-Summit League First Team

Two-Time Summit League

Pitcher of the Year

2022 Summit League Tournament MVP

D1 Softball National Pitcher of the Week

Two-time Summit League All-Tournament Team

“They had not done that in the past and I thought they were capable enough and competitive enough to play against those teams but for me, playing against the Dukes and Oklahoma States is what’s going to help us be that much better in the Summit [League].

when Kniesche held the Bears hitless until the fifth inning. The win marked the first time in Jackrabbit history that the softball team took down a ranked opponent.

To Kniesche, that game has been her favorite memory of softball at South Dakota State.

“We were just overlooked and no one really talked about South Dakota State and I feel like those games [against ranked teams] really put us on the map

and that’s when bigger schools started looking at us like they need to prepare for us and not just overlook us,” Kniesche said.

It was McSweeney’s plan to play the best teams in softball.

“When we [McSweeny and Josh Bertke] took over the program, we immediately put them in front of those teams [ranked opponents],” McSweeney said, the second-year softball coach for the Jacks.

Kniesche, or TK as she is known on the team, started playing softball at the age of 8. She credits her sister as the motivation to join the sport she has now excelled at.

“She is a year older, so she was 9 playing fast pitch,” said Kniesche. “I was always wanting to be her and I looked up to her, so that’s when I started getting into it.”

In April 2023, Kniesche earned the Division 1 Softball National Pitcher of the Week award. Though an impressive feat,

Photo by MARSHALL MINIHAN

This season, Kniesche has pitched a total of 99 innings where she has amounted to 142 strikeouts, a batting average against of .161 and an ERA of 1.98. This season, Kniesche has completed six shutout games.

Kniesche

Continued from previous page

it wasn’t the first time she was nationally recognized.

In her 2019-20 softball season, Kniesche had the most strikeouts in the nation with 499, as well as the most wins on the mound with 28. Kniesche also had the fourth-best earned run average, or ERA in the nation at .32 per game.

Though the owner of arguably the best records for a pitcher at South Dakota State, Kniesche doesn’t hold any high school records. The records at Wayne High School in Wayne, Nebraska, belong to Molly Hill, Kniesche’s idol in the sport.

“She’s [Molly Hill] has always been my role model,” Kniesche said. “She was the first pitcher to play softball at Wayne and to start that sport and grow it for the community.”

Hill played five years for the Nebraska Cornhuskers as a pitcher on the softball team where she was a member of the All-Big 12 first team in 2009. Similar to the athlete she inspired, Hill spent multiple weeks as her conference’s pitcher of the week.

20 years removed from high school, Hill’s name sits in 11 different spots on the record board to this day.

Now 12-5 on the mound this season, Kniesche and her teammates will take the field next against NDSU for a threegame stretch in Fargo, North Dakota. First pitch on Friday is slated for noon.

SDSU takes 3 against Kansas City

JORDAN RADDATZ Sports Reporter

South Dakota State swept Kansas City in a three-game series at the Jackrabbit Softball Stadium in Brookings and look forward to their next contests at North Dakota State.

Games One

A doubleheader on Friday saw two tightly contested matches end in Jackrabbit victories.

South Dakota State started scoring off a Kansas City centerfield error with two runs by Lindsey Culver and Mia Jarecki. A Brooke Dumont single helped put another run on the board for a three-run advantage. Junior outfielder Briona Woods hit one out of the park for the Roos sole run of the game.

Five runs by the Jacks in the bottom of the fifth concluded the scoring, and not another hit was allowed by Tori Kniesche from there, as the Jacks took an 8-1 win. Kniesche struck out 10 players.

Brooke Dumont batted a .750 from the plate while Culver went 2-3. Both Rozelyn Carrillo and Culver earned two runs throughout the game.

Game Two

Part two of the double header was much closer. The first inning was kept scoreless, but a home run by Dumont put the Jacks on the board in the second inning. Scoring resumed in the fifth inning when Kansas City scored one run each off a double and a single, putting them in front.

The Jacks answered accordingly, scoring four runs in the bottom of the fifth with a Rozelyn Carrillo triple and a Dumont single to make it 5-2. Shannon Lasey earned the victory with three strikeouts while allowing six hits and a walk.

Osmundson went .500 from the plate when DH Madi Conklin went 2-3 in the second game of the double header. Both Dumont and Conklin finished with two runs a piece.

“Those first two games were tight,” head coach Kristina McSweeney said. “[It] did not feel like we had control very much at all, but, you know, we found a way to be successful when we needed to.”

Game Three

A windy Saturday didn’t stop the Jackrabbits from completing the sweep.

A run from senior outfielder Abby Husak

by fielder’s choice put the Roos up 1-0, but from there it was all Jacks. A Dumont double in the bottom of the first, gave the Jacks a one-run lead, while a Jocelyn Carrillo home run and Emma Osmundson grand slam the next inning ballooned the lead to six. Four more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning concluded the scoring, as the game ended in five innings for the 11-1 victory. This marked the second game in Summit League play for the Jacks in which it ended on the run-rule.

Kniesche earned the victory with eight strikeouts and allowed only four hits and a pair of walks. She along with Dumont were honored on Tuesday by the Summit League for their performances.

Jarecki, Culver, Osmundson and Rozelyn Carrillo earned two runs a piece while Culver batted a perfect game and Jarecki went 2-3.

“[We] played really good softball,” McSweeney said. “I thought, you know, a combination of great pitching, really good defense and stellar offense really helped power us through this weekend.”

The Jacks will head up to North Dakota State for a three game series against the Bison this weekend.