More than just a liberal arts university: How the Law School and Med School put USD on the map

USD is the only university in South Dakota that offers both a medical school and a law school, but for University President Sheila Gestring, that distinction only increases the school’s duties to South Dakota. Gestring said the law and medical schools face a heightened level of obligation to help the state. “(That is) a special […]

4 mins read

“SGA Sucks” email prompts student feedback, reflection on Student Government’s image

After the Occhipinto-Specht campaign sent an email titled “SGA Sucks” to the student body on Tuesday, the Student Government Association received feedback, criticizing the email at that night’s meeting. The email urged students to vote for Carissa Occhipinto and running mate Shelby Specht in the current SGA presidential election. The campus-wide email contained four campaign […]

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Vermillion presents a unique climate for old and new businesses

Vermillion may be the home of USD, but the university isn’t the only landmark the town hosts. Thanks to the college bustle and an enthusiastic downtown business scene, both longtime residents and newcomers alike are enjoying success. Monica Iverson and Jim Waters co-own Cafe Brule and Dakota Brick House. The two met while doing work […]

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Spring break plans busted due to Coronavirus outbreaks

With the total number of Coronavirus disease cases (COVID-19) continuing to rise — there are currently 60 confirmed positive cases in the United States — USD students’ spring break plans have been altered as a precautionary measure. Faculty-led trips to Italy and Guatemala have been canceled due to outbreaks in Italy and quarantines in Guatemala.  According […]

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Five Star Barbershop brings new style to Vermillion

While salon’s like https://scoutsbarbershop.com/ are popular now, so is this story.Joel Antonio, owner of 5 Star Barbershop, said he wanted to bring his community together in an unconventional way.  As a kid, barbers were all around Antonio, but he didn’t really find an interest in cutting hair until he moved to Vermillion.  He said he transformed […]

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Pharmaceuticals and felonies: study drugs at USD

The term “study drugs” may evoke images of Adderall and all-night study sessions, but for one time users and repeat users alike, there may be consequences for using these substances to cram for the next big test. “Study drug” is an unofficial term referring to any substance used to increase energy and focus while studying. […]

6 mins read

‘Words hurt’: Racist tweet sparks a conversation on Strollers impact

Story by: Sara Cappiello and Lexi Kerzman In preparation for their 97th annual show, USD Strollers introduced their emcee via Twitter. The tweet, which included racist slurs relating to the black community, was taken down early Friday after the organization received backlash.  Since the tweet, USD community members have questioned the value of Strollers as […]

5 mins read

From olympic athlete to USD coach

USD throws coach A.G. Kruger joined the USD track and field coaching staff in Aug. 2015. Since then, the Coyote throws team has seen 58 new marks in the top-10 list. Under Kruger, three USD athletes have made it to the NCAA Championships. USD has won seven Summit League titles in the Kruger era. The […]

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Bar safety: Bartenders watch over customers, aim to protect

This is the third and final part of an ongoing story on date rape drugs and safety in social drinking. Dakota Brickhouse is one of eight bars in downtown Vermillion. They try to watch all of their customers to ensure a safe and fun drinking environment.  One of the ways they have improved safety is […]

5 mins read

Crashes in Vermillion reflect public education, road improvements

In 2019, South Dakota had a record low in traffic fatalities. Vermillion experienced its first fatality from a traffic incident since 2015. Out of the 166 drivers involved in an accident last year, 151 (91%) were unharmed.  Luke Trowbridge, a patrol lieutenant for the Vermillion Police Department, said he doesn’t notice a large change in […]

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