The South Dakotan Health is the story hub of the USD School of Health Sciences. Here you’ll find stories and news highlighting the meaningful contributions of our students, faculty and staff, and alumni.
The Latest
Sep 24, 2026
USD’s Jed Droge Receives Physical Therapy Innovation Award
The University of South Dakota’s Jed Droge, DPT, assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, is the recipient of the Physical Therapy Innovation Award from the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT).
Sep 04, 2026
Two Paths, One Purpose: Danielle Beck Finds Her Passion in ROTC, Nursing
At the University of South Dakota, students involved in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) become very familiar with adventure training, road marches and field exercises while training for leadership roles in the U.S. Army.
Aug 24, 2026
USD Dental Hygiene Expands Partnership with City of Sioux Falls, Falls Community Health
The University of South Dakota Department of Dental Hygiene is expanding its partnership with the City of Sioux Falls and Falls Community Health through a new agreement designed to strengthen access to dental care while supporting the education and clinical experience of future dental professionals.
Jul 15, 2026
USD Physical Therapy Class of 2026 Earns 100% First-Time Pass Rate on National Physical Therapy Exam
The University of South Dakota’s physical therapy Class of 2026 has achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam.
Alumni
Brock Rops Receives South Dakota Office of Rural Health Award
The South Dakota Office of Rural Health has announced that Brock Rops has been named recipient of the South Dakota Office of Rural Health Community Star award.
The Magic of Starting Over: Alumnus Dave Hobler Creates Scholarship Reflective of His Experiences
"When you’re handed lemons, you need to figure out how to make lemonade."
Students Advance Education in State’s Largest City at USD – Sioux Falls
University of South Dakota – Sioux Falls students are taking advantage of the high-quality, affordable education and small class sizes offered at the university’s Sioux Falls campus.
More Headlines
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USD Occupational Therapy Students Help Senior Drivers Ensure Car Safety with CarFit Event
Summary: University of South Dakota occupational therapy students recently hosted a safety program in Hawarden, Iowa, to help older drivers find a better “fit” with their cars for comfort and safety.
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USD’s IHEC: Where Healthcare Teamwork Begins
Summary: From the moment undergraduate students arrive at the University of South Dakota campus, they start adjusting to a new level of independence and responsibility; they learn how to manage their time, make decisions on their own and prepare for the careers they want to pursue.
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USD’s Bass Named to National Social Work Education Board
Summary: Kelly J. Bass, DSW, chair of the Department of Social Work and the Department of Addiction Counseling & Prevention at the University of South Dakota, has been appointed to the Council on Social Work Education Board of Accreditation beginning July 1.
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USD School of Health Sciences Names 2026 Award Winners
Summary: The University of South Dakota’s School of Health Sciences recently recognized several faculty, staff and students for their outstanding achievements and contributions.
Guest Column
I chose family medicine because I love the idea of being 'everyone's doctor.' I also love making sure my patients are up to date with their immunizations and health care screenings. It's so important.
Guest Column | Lizz & Robbie Nicholas
Elizabeth (Hoffman) Nicholas, a Eureka, South Dakota native, and Robert Nicholas, a Huron, South Dakota native, met at the University of South Dakota when they were both in the Alumni Student Scholars Program, each with the dream of becoming a doctor.
