At South Dakota State University (SDSU), the emphasis on holistic wellness takes center stage as students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to enhance their physical and mental health. With a strategic vision that mirrors South Dakota’s resilient spirit, SDSU is creating an ecosystem of support that addresses academic needs, food security, mental health, and overall safety.
A key initiative at the university is the Mental Health Wellbeing Team, co-chaired by Teresa Seefeldt, vice provost for undergraduate education and Shari Landmark, director of the Miller Wellness Center. Together, they aim to cultivate a university environment where mental wellbeing is incorporated into daily life, focusing on change management, autonomy, purpose, growth, relationships, self-acceptance, and resiliency.
The University Wellbeing Advisory Committee, co-chaired by Shari Landmark and Mary Anne Krogh, dean of the College of Nursing, plays a pivotal role in supporting SDSU’s strategic plan to become a high-performing and healthy university. The committee advocates for the use of eight dimensions of wellness to guide campus initiatives and foster a supportive academic atmosphere.
Email SDSU Wellness Center or call 605-697-9355 for more information on the programs offered at SDSU.
Enhancing South Dakota’s legacy, the Wellbeing Champion Program under the South Dakota State Employee Benefits Program, chaired by Laura Sroufe, emphasizes empowering employees and their families. This program fosters awareness about wellbeing resources, encouraging participation in activities that champion holistic health.
The ADAPT (Alcohol and Drug Awareness and Prevention Team) is another crucial element of SDSU’s wellness strategy. The team crafts educational programs highlighting the dangers of substance abuse and produces a bi-annual report, reinforcing the importance of informed choices for students.
An essential resource, the Helpline Center, accessed via 211 or 988, provides South Dakotans with free and confidential crisis support, ensuring mental health or substance use crises are met with well-trained specialists.
At the heart of SDSU’s community support are its Academic and Career Support Services, including the Wintrode Center’s tutoring programs and career development resources that cater to the diverse needs of students striving for academic and professional excellence. The comprehensive library resources and disability services ensure every student can succeed.
The Social Support and Mental Health Resources at SDSU include contributions from the American Indian Student Center, Multicultural Affairs, Counseling Services, and mentoring programs like Lost and Found Peer2Peer, which improve the cultural and emotional wellbeing of students.
SDSU further promotes physical wellness through a variety of Fitness and Nutrition Resources, such as the Student Health Clinic, Nutrition Services, and fitness facilities that provide specific programs for student health—including innovative initiatives like Jack’s Cupboard for nutritional support.
Ensuring safety across campus is paramount, managed by the University Police Department and coordinated through a robust communications center. These services facilitate an immediate response to any emergencies, aligning with regional safety practices and enhancing community trust.
As South Dakota State University advances its dedication to wellbeing, these integrated strategies reflect not only the institution’s commitment but also the state’s broader values of community and resilience. By fostering an environment of comprehensive support, SDSU leads the way for its students, faculty, and staff to thrive both personally and professionally.
For further information on SDSU’s wellbeing programs and initiatives, visit the University Wellbeing page.