Three USD Anthropology Students Awarded Prestigious Archaeology Scholarship
The scholarship honors a student or students who have contributed to the field of archaeology in South Dakota and includes a $500 award.
Each recipient is a member of the South Dakota Archaeological Society and has demonstrated exceptional commitment to understanding and preserving the state’s cultural heritage through research, fieldwork and community engagement.
All three students are also active in the USD Anthropology Program Enthusiasts Society, which is a student group that is dedicated to providing students with the space to enjoy and explore archaeology and anthropology.
“It has been incredible seeing the academic and professional growth of all three students,” said Anthony Krus, Ph.D., chair of anthropology and sociology and associate professor. “Angel served as an RA this past summer for USD's archaeological field school, while Eva and Elyn have taken on lead roles in USD's anthropology student club. Their work in these positions has had a positive impact on USD's student community.”
Eva Rindelaub
From the time she was little, Eva Rindelaub has had a passion for archeology.
Instilled in her by her grandfather and his love for history—specifically Plains History—Rindelaub knew “right away” that she wanted to have a job involving history and realized archeology made that possible. When Rindelaub was 10 years old, her mother nurtured that interest by signing her up for the Kids Archaeological Dig in Pierre, South Dakota. When she was 13, her father helped her dig deeper in her curiosity by buying her a metal detector.
“I loved the research, exploring and the excavation involved with finding something,” said Rindelaub. “All these experiences made me realize how much I loved anthropology and archeology and that it was the only field for me.”
Rindelaub, who is majoring in anthropology and minoring in archaeology at USD, says that receiving the Justin Runestad Award is a great honor.
“It means I was recognized for my contribution to the field of archaeology in South Dakota and have the support of many in the archaeological community,” said Rindelaub. “Professionally, it encourages me to keep going in pursuing my career and contributing to South Dakota archaeology.”
She also credits USD with deepening her passion and helping her apply what she’s learned in the classroom to real-world research and fieldwork.
“My experience at USD has prepared me greatly,” said Rindelaub. “The classes are informative, and you learn so much about the field. You gain hands-on experience while learning essential techniques in the field. It’s a phenomenal opportunity for all students pursuing a career in archaeology.”
Her professors, Anthony Krus, Ph.D., along with Crystal Sheedy, Ph.D., assistant professor, have also helped her along the way.
“Dr. Krus’ field school and archaeology classes have helped me prepare for my career. His support and guidance in honing my archaeological skills have allowed me to continue forward,” said Rindelaub. “Dr. Sheedy’s cultural anthropology classes have deepened my connection with human histories and cultures. This has allowed me to further understand the cultural awareness and human perspective of archaeology, as well as the commitment to ethical responsibilities that come along with it.”
Looking to the future, Rindelaub hopes to continue advancing the field, particularly through research on Plains Archaeology.
“I want to help people of the Plains better understand their heritage and shed more light on underrepresented histories through tribal collaboration,” said Rindelaub. “I want to preserve and share the history of the Plains for as long as I can.”
Elyn Krohn
For Elyn Krohn, discovering her love for anthropology and archaeology happened at USD during an “Introduction to Archaeology” course. Since that course, she’s embraced every opportunity to learn more, especially through fieldwork.
“My most meaningful experience has been when I took USD’s archaeology field school,” said Krohn. “Being out in the field, I realized this was something I truly enjoyed and that I could see myself actually making a career out of.”
As she looks ahead to her career, winning the 2025 Justin Runestad Scholarship is a meaningful acknowledgment of her hard work and potential.“It feels really validating to know that people have trust in my ability to succeed,” said Krohn. “Professionally, it inspires me to pursue bigger things. I plan to put it towards my master’s degree, so I can further my education and gain more opportunities in the field.”
Her experience at USD has also equipped her with the skills to analyze material culture, work directly with artifacts that bring history to life and learn from expert mentors.
“I’ve had the amazing opportunity to volunteer in the lab on campus, cleaning and researching artifacts uncovered during USD’s 2024 and 2025 field seasons,” said Krohn. “The professors within the Department of Anthropology & Sociology have helped shape my path, opened the door to new opportunities and introduced me to unique perspectives. USD has amazing opportunities for students who are studying this field.”
In the future, Krohn hopes to continue her work in anthropology and archaeology through research and community engagement.
“I hope to help protect and accurately represent the material culture and stories of those before us, while positively impacting the lives of descendant communities through my actions,” Krohn said.
Angel Vazquez
Angel Vazquez was drawn to archaeology by his passion for the human experience and cultural preservation. His passion grew deeper through hands-on learning and involvement in the field.
“My most meaningful experience so far was participating in the 2024 Native American Undergraduate Museum Fellowship with the Minnesota Historical Society,” said Vazquez. “Archaeology is more than just studying the past. It’s about understanding people and stories that still shape our world today. It takes patience, curiosity and respect, but the experiences and lessons you gain are so worth it.”
Those lessons and experiences set the stage for Vazquez to be honored with the 2025 Justin Runestad Scholarship, which is both a personal and professional affirmation of Vazquez’s dedication to the field.
“Knowing that others in the community recognize my efforts encourages me to continue pursuing this career,” Vazquez said. “It allowed me to bring my perspective forward. I plan to use the scholarship to support my education and tuition.”
At USD, Vazquez is earning his degree in anthropology and sustainability. He has gained essential knowledge through his coursework and fieldwork, especially through the Susan Tuve Archaeology Field School.
Vazquez’s mentors, John Little, Ph.D., director of Native recruitment and alumni engagement; Megan Red Shirt-Shaw, Ph.D., director of Native Student Services; Saige Kelmelis, Ph.D., associate professor; Elise Boxer, Ph.D., director of the Institute of American Indian Studies and associate professor; and Anthony Krus, Ph.D., and Crystal Sheedy, Ph.D., have also played a great role in shaping his path.
Looking ahead, Vazquez hopes to make archaeology accessible and relevant to modern communities.
“Whether through research, public outreach or cultural preservation, I want to help foster appreciation for the stories in the landscapes and artifacts around us,” said Vazquez. “Moreover, I want to help ensure that history is preserved and shared responsibly for the future."
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