Letter to the Editor: Abbott, Porter are game changers
Both men entered this world in 1948, and graduated from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 1974. Each began his law practice in Yankton. And, over many decades, both changed South Dakota’s landscape in two high profile and important fields: education and health care. This summer, both are retiring, and though it […]
Letter to the Editor: History and awareness months
What are “History Months” or “Awareness Months” and why do we have them? History and Awareness Months celebrate the accounts and achievements of marginalized individuals often excluded or overshadowed in traditional history books. They serve as reminders for everyone to learn more about the rich heritage and culture of those different from ourselves. At USD, […]
Letter to the Editor: Invitation for campus engagement, privilege
The President’s Council on Diversity and Inclusiveness has selected “privilege” as the theme for the spring semester and invites everyone on campus to plan events around that concept. “Privilege” can be defined as “a special advantage or benefit not enjoyed by all.” This sort of right, advantage or immunity often is not sought out – […]
Letter to the Editor: Sexual harassers and predators should be fired, expelled
I have mixed emotions concerning Abbott’s retirement. On one hand he can be credited for advancing the USD brand in many areas. One area stands, however, as a glaring exception. That is the area of sexual harassment/assault on campus. For example, there is a current USD faculty member that was investigated for sexual harassment in […]
Letter to the Editor: Calling roll may not be harmless
Dear faculty, Suppose you are a USD student whose identity as a person is challenged every time someone calls you by your legal name in front of others. In addition to being a source of embarrassment and cause of serious concern, being called by your legal name can also threaten your safety. Now, imagine this […]
Letter: Dialogue surrounding sexual assault must adjust
Fellow campus community, “There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.” – Elie Wiesel After recent reports of rape involving USD students, our campus community has an opportunity to reflect on our response and discussions about it. Infamous defendants, like […]
Letter to the Editor: I stand with sexual assault victims
To USD victims of sexual assault — I just want to say #metoo. I survived a sexual assault on our campus before USD went D1 and let me tell you, I didn’t report because I didn’t think anyone would protect me over a student-athlete. Just because a victim doesn’t report or is protected by privacy […]
President Abbott: USD offers many opportunities
Each summer it’s my privilege to welcome many families, future students, visitors and guests to the campus of the University of South Dakota. We urge you to stroll our grounds, enjoy our sculpture walk and art galleries, stop in the Muenster University Center or the National Music Museum. We are proud of our beautiful campus […]
Letter to the editor: USD is working to address gender-based violence
My name is Marisa Cummings and I am the University of South Dakota project coordinator for the Violence Against Women Campus Project grant through the Department of Justice. My office is located in the University Counseling Center or Cook House. I am excited to join the University of South Dakota family and work towards reducing […]
Letter to the editor: USD’s move to gender inclusive facilities
Many of you will notice that signage of some bathrooms around campus has changed. Wherever possible, USD is moving toward a policy of having “gender inclusive facilities” — or GIFs — on campus. These are private, single-stall restrooms that may be used by any person regardless of family status, parental status, gender identity or gender […]