Civics at USD
As South Dakota’s flagship liberal arts university, the University of South Dakota is committed to fostering informed and active citizenship among its students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage meaningfully in their communities. USD encourages students to be proactive participants in civic life, emphasizing the importance of understanding societal issues, engaging in dialogue, and contributing to the public good. Through academic and co-curricular programming USD aims to cultivate a student body that is not only academically prepared but also civically minded and responsible.
The university provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in discussions, attend events, and participate in activities that enhance their understanding of civic responsibility.
Upcoming Campus Events
Our signature events for the fall academic semester are listed below.
National Voter Registration Day
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Yotes Vote Voter Registration
11:30 - 1:30 p.m. | MUC PitStop by the MUC Pit to register to vote and learn from various student organizations about how to get involved.
Undivide Us Film Screening
7 p.m. | Coyote Twin Theatre
“UNDIVIDE US” challenges the idea that citizens who disagree are not capable of civil conversation and demonstrates the truth that, even in our differences, the American experiment is still alive and well.
Constitution Day
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Constitution Day: A Conversation With Supreme Court Justice Mark E. Salter
12 p.m. | MUC Ballroom
Lunch and conversation hosted by the Knudson School of Law, Cheisman Center for Democracy and the Opportunity Center.
For more information on civic engagement programming at USD please contact the Opportunity Center at usd.edu/opportunitycenter.
Latest News
USD to Host Truman Scholars' Panel Moderated by Clifton Truman Daniel
The University of South Dakota will host a public panel discussion featuring a selection of USD’s Truman Scholars, moderated by President Harry S. Truman’s grandson, on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 4 p.m. in Farber Hall, located inside Old Main.
USD to Host National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day Events Sept. 17
The University of South Dakota is set to host a series of events for National Voter Registration Day and Constitution Day on Tuesday, Sept. 17.
How USD Inspires Community Engagement and Public Service
Fostering and encouraging informed civic engagement is at the core of the University of South Dakota’s mission and values.
USD's Hellwege Leads Chiesman Center for Democracy on the University's Vermillion Campus
It’s been a busy year for the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota.
Departments and Facilities
Opportunity Center
The USD Opportunity Center offers a central connection point for campus resources that are designed specifically for student success.
Chiesman Center for Democracy
The Chiesman Center for Democracy promotes and supports democratic principles and active civic engagement.
Farber Center
At the W.O. Farber Center for Civic Leadership, we prepare students for a lifetime of leadership as citizens of the community, state, nation and world.
