The Chiesman Fund for Civic Education

The Allene R. Chiesman Fund for Civic Education  at The University of South Dakota promotes civic education by creating a greater awareness of

• the meaning of democracy and democratic ideals,

• the role of law and the nature of citizenship in a democratic society, and 

• the relationship of economics and democracy.
  

Allene R. Chiesman, a South Dakota native, was a philanthropist who supported the American and democratic way of life. Her beliefs were rooted in the fundamentals of hard work and giving back to society a fair share of what one gains through living in a democratic society.  Besides founding the Chiesman Foundation For Democracy and establishing an endowment to meet its mission and goals, she established scholarships and endowments at The University of South Dakota. The scholarships have helped many students meet their educational goals and the endowments fulfill the goals of preparing individuals to become active citizens and leaders within South Dakota.

    Our Benefactor

  Allene R. Chiesman
July 12, 1914 -
August 1, 1998
Allene was born in Spearfish, South Dakota to Leverette R. and Nellie Pike Chiesman on July 12, 1914. Her family ranched in the Newell-Belle Fourche area for over sixty years. After completing elementary school and preparatory school, Allene majored in history at The University of South Dakota.

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