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.
Monday, November 3, 2025
Our Towns - HBO Documentary Screening
6 p.m., Coyote Twin Theater, 10 E Main Street, Vermillion, SD
Free showing sponsored by the Chiesman Center for Democracy. Based on the bestselling book, this documentary looks at how small towns and cities respond to setbacks to find their way forward.
TV-14 | Documentaries | 1 HR 37 MIN | 2021
Thursday, November 7, 2025
Our Towns Civic Foundation Presents
It's Happening Here: American Renewal, Ingenuity & Innovation
Featuring Dr. Deborah & James Fallows
James Fallows is one of the world’s most respected journalists – an intrepid, sensitive investigator of the world, honored by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences as an elected member for his 50-year career. His latest New York Times bestseller Our Towns (co-authored with writer and linguist Deborah Fallows), offers an illuminating portrait of the cultural reinvention taking place across America. In talks, Fallows shares the stories of grassroots innovators, detailing the growth and optimism not usually showcased by the media. Our Towns is a tale of American strength, ingenuity, and progress, and Fallows is a world-class storyteller. Join us to hear what James and Deborah discovered on their 100,000+ mile journal across the nation – their impressions of Our Towns.
Program, Q&A + book signing to follow
Latest News
USD to Host James and Deborah Fallows for ‘It’s Happening Here: American Renewal, Ingenuity and Innovation’
On Nov. 6, 2025, the University of South Dakota will welcome James and Deborah Fallows for their talk “It’s Happening Here: American Renewal, Ingenuity and Innovation” at 7 p.m. in Farber Hall, with a Q&A session and book signing to follow. The event is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.
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 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.
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.
